KANSAS CITY, Missouri — Chargers safety Tony Jefferson was ejected after a helmet-to-helmet impact Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Tyquan Thornton in the fourth quarter of Los Angeles' 16-13 win on Sunday and left the field in frustration after making an obscene gesture toward fans.
After the game, Jefferson apologized for the gesture. He said he had no bad intentions in the attack and believed it was legal, but had not yet seen the replay.
“I'm cooler than that. I was just caught up in the moment,” Jefferson said. “Emotions are running high. I won't sit here and act like I'm a perfect person. I messed it up and did it. I have kids at home and kids watching the game too, so I apologize.”
The play was initially flagged for unnecessary roughness, and a brief scuffle ensued before officials disqualified Jefferson. Following the hit, Thornton was placed in concussion protocol.
“I saw the football game,” coach Jim Harbaugh said. “That's what I saw.”
Jefferson was physical throughout the game, making several big hits, including a sharp hit to a Chiefs receiver. Rashi Rice this led to an incompletion at third early in the game.
“Physicality is a huge part of the game,” he said. “You have to be smart about it.”
Jefferson, who has been a healthy inactive for three games this year, has emerged as one of the most important players in the Chargers' secondary in recent weeks.
Prior to this season, Jefferson had four interceptions in his first 10 seasons in the NFL. Jefferson is tied for the team lead in interceptions this season with four, while regularly delivering devastating blows to receivers who dare catch passes over the middle of the field, as he did on Sunday.
“He plays very good, very good football,” Harbaugh said.
The Chargers have already started Sunday's game without a safety. Elijah Moldenwho had a hamstring injury. Newbie Safety R. J. Mickens also fell due to a shoulder injury. Without Jefferson, the Chargers had to rely on veterans. Marcus Williamswho was taken off the practice squad, and Kendall Williamsonwho usually plays only on special teams.
