In a tense fourth-quarter moment on Monday Night Football, Jaxon Smith-Njigba found himself in danger and being protected by referee Nate Jones.
Jones stepped in to protect the Seattle Seahawks receiver after tempers flared on the Houston Texans’ sideline during Seattle’s 27-19 win.
Smith-Njigba was swarmed by Texans players on the bench when a referee intervened and shielded him from outraged opponents.
The situation came about after Derek Stingley Jr. intercepted a Sam Darnold pass intended for AJ Barner. Stingley stiff-armed Smith-Njigba as he ran out of bounds, causing his helmet to come off.
Jaxon Smith-Njigba pushed Stingley, which caused Texans linebacker Christian Harris to come over and shove the Seahawks wideout to the bench.
As he held his arms up to show that he was not a threat, Jones came running in and stood right in front of him to ensure that he would not be hurt by any possible punches.
Seattle’s third-year receiver wasn’t fazed by the Texans, saying after the game, “Nah. I told ’em I felt comfortable over there.”
