Steelers' Pat Freiermuth Made A Shocking Decision To Vouch For Chargers' Derwin James: "Didn't Think It Was A Dirty Hit"

Pittsburgh Steelers tight end Pat Freiermuth was on the receiving end of a controversial hit by Los Angeles Chargers safety Derwin James, one that the NFL swiftly addressed. After reviewing the play, the league suspended James for one game, citing that he had a clear opportunity to make a legal tackle, but instead chose to lower his head and make an illegal hit.

The decision did not sit well with Chargers Head Coach Jim Harbaugh, who publicly criticized the NFL's ruling and even placed some blame on Freiermuth. According to Harbaugh, Freiermuth's stiff-arm allegedly forced James to lower his head, leading to the collision. However, this explanation didn’t align with the footage, as the play appeared to show James initiating the contact in a way that could have been avoided.

While the hit wasn’t among the dirtiest the league has seen, it still violated the NFL’s recent focus on player safety and helmet-to-helmet contact. Given the league’s ongoing effort to reduce dangerous tackles, James’ one-game suspension seemed justified. He had the chance to avoid it entirely with a more disciplined approach to the play.

In an unexpected twist, Freiermuth himself came to James’ defense during the appeal process. As revealed on The Pat McAfee Show, Freiermuth stood up for the Chargers safety, expressing his support and arguing that James shouldn’t be suspended for the hit. This added an intriguing layer to the incident, as the player on the receiving end of the hit advocated for leniency. Despite Freiermuth’s defense, the NFL upheld its decision to suspend James.

"This is back to the Derwin James suspension. Breaking: Pat Freiermuth was on the appeal call and said he didn’t think it was a dirty hit," Pat McAfee said.

It's intriguing to hear that Freiermuth was part of the appeal process. Freiermuth offered his support for James, stating that he didn’t think the hit was dirty enough to warrant a suspension. In fact, Freiermuth didn’t believe the hit was dirty at all. While Harbaugh initially placed blame on Freiermuth for the incident, it's likely he now respects him more for standing up for James.

Over the last few seasons, NFL rules have changed dramatically, with a major emphasis on player safety. Protecting players from dangerous hits, particularly helmet-to-helmet contact, has become a priority. 

Freiermuth, who has missed significant time due to concussions, understands this issue all too well. The NFL felt that James didn’t follow the rules meant to limit these types of collisions, leading to the league’s decision.

Steelers' Pat Freiermuth Tried To Help Chargers' Derwin James

Adding to the complexity, the NFL has labeled James as a repeat offender when it comes to violating safety rules. Despite Freiermuth’s defense, the league has chosen to uphold James' one-game suspension. This decision seems to be a clear attempt to send a message about their commitment to player safety and discouraging such hits in the future.

Freiermuth’s decision to join the appeal and publicly support James highlights the kind of player he is. His willingness to stand by a competitor, even when the NFL remains firm in its ruling, shows his character and the respect he has for his fellow players around the league.

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