NFL star who was ejected for throwing a punch accuses rival of spitting on him

Join the Miguel Delaney Inside Football Get exclusive insights and behind-the scenes access to the Miguel Delaney: inside newsletter Football Join the Miguel Delaney Inside newsletter Football NewsletterPittsburgh’s Jalen Ramsey accused Cincinnati Bengals wide-receiver Ja’Marr Chase spitting at him during Sunday’s NFL match. This led to Ramsey’s expulsion for throwing a punt. The altercation occurred with approximately 13 minutes remaining in the Steelers’ 34-12 victory.Ramsey, 31, stated after the game that while he is “OK with trash talk”, Chase “crossed the line” by spitting. “I really enjoy that (talking about the game) part. I believe that people already know this,” Ramsey explained. “I am sure that the NFL will do its due diligence,” he added. They have 100 cameras. They can look into it. They can look at everything. … Sincerity dictates that they should be capable of pulling it up and seeing that he spit, and whatever else is after that. If I am being honest, I think I was a bit too nice.Chase, 25 years old, vehemently denies Ramsey’s claim. Chase said after the match, “I never spoke to him.” “I did not spit on anybody.” Chase responded, “Well he doesn’t like the words I said to him.” When asked about Ramsey’s attempt at punching, Chase explained, “Well, it’s because he didn’t like the words I said to him.” The whole time, we’ve been back and forth. I’m pretty sure that something got under his sleeve.”open image in galleryJalen Ramsey claimed Ja’Marr Chase spat on him during their NFL match on Sunday (AP)The two veteran players had been engaged in verbal sparring throughout the match. Both received unsportsmanlike penalties in an earlier game, after Ramsey claimed Chase had attempted to block a crackback. Ramsey described the initial confrontation as a “little scuffle”, in which Chase grabbed his facemask and he was pushed by Chase. The officials had warned the players that a second similar offense would lead to their ejection. Despite this warning, the situation escalated in the timeout prior to the next play and culminated in the alleged incident of spitting. Ramsey then swung Chase’s helmet, grabbing his facemask. Both teams sent players to separate the two. Ramsey was disqualified automatically for the punch. Both teams were given offsetting penalties. “Obviously, we did not,” Vinovich confirmed. “We didn’t see anything at that level.”Ramsey was a cornerback during his entire 10-year career and was selected to seven Pro Bowls. He also made the first team All-Pro three times. Chase is in his fifth year and has been selected four times for the Pro Bowl. He was also a member of the first team All-Pros in 2024.
2025-11-17 12:26:23