According to a report by ESPN’s Adam Schefter, Pittsburgh Steelers tight ends coach James Daniel is under investigation by the NFL for allegedly assaulting and verbally abusing a New England Patriots fan.
The fan was reportedly on the way to the locker room before halftime when witnesses spotted Daniel, who was also headed to the locker room, kicking the fan in the back of his legs. By the time Daniel arrived back at the coach’s booth, NFL security and police were there waiting for him. The coach was identified by witnesses, and once the police addressed him about his behavior, Daniels started shouting at the officer, according to witnesses.
NFL security did not witness the exchange between Daniel and the police but reportedly interviewed Daniel afterwards about the incident. A league official has since confirmed that the NFL is looking into the incident.
And, a Steelers’ spokesperson said that NFL security made them aware of the incident for which the team has also started investigating.
What an odd way to add even more drama to the NFL’s season opener.