Chiefs’ Andy Reid raises concerns about Chargers’ ‘very questionable’ hit on Watkins
The Chiefs couldn’t avoid injuries in Sunday’s 23-20 overtime win over the Los Angeles Chargers.
Cornerback Antonio Hamilton (groin), running back Darrel Williams (ankle), defensive end Frank Clark (illness) and wide receiver Sammy Watkins (head) all left the game.
Watkins’ injury, though, had Chiefs coach Andy Reid’s full attention during his opening post-game comments.
“Sammy got a hit to the head that I thought was very questionable,” Reid said. “He got hit to the head, so we’re not supposed to have those in our game here.”
Watkins was hurt early in the fourth quarter after hauling in a short pass from quarterback Patrick Mahomes. As the Chiefs wide receiver made his way up the field, Chargers defensive back Desmond King hit him low before linebacker Denzel Perryman came in from the left side and delivered a helmet-to-helmet blow to Watkins.
Watkins, who gained 11 yards on the play, stayed down on the field as trainers rushed to his side. After a short period of time on the ground, Watkins was helped to his feet and appeared wobbly as he slowly made his way to the sideline with help.
Following the game, Reid said he didn’t know if Watkins was officially in the NFL’s concussion protocol.
“I can’t tell you that right this minute,” Reid said. “I presume he is, but I don’t have that for you right now.”
The play didn’t draw a penalty flag, but that doesn’t mean Perryman won’t hear from the league.
The NFL reviews plays from each weekend of action and has the discretion to issue fines if league officials feel it is warranted. Coaches also have the ability to send film to the league for review.
Watkins finished the game with one catch for 11 yards on three targets.
This story was originally published September 21, 2020 at 5:00 AM with the headline "Chiefs’ Andy Reid raises concerns about Chargers’ ‘very questionable’ hit on Watkins."
