Seahawks’ Jamal Adams Could Face Fines After Berating Concussion Doctor

The NFL is reportedly considering disciplinary action against Seattle Seahawks safety Jamal Adams after the star defender screamed at a doctor on the sideline while he was being evaluated for a concussion. Adams was making his first start after a season-ending injury in 2022 but had to exit the game early. He is now in concussion protocol.

Adams apologized on Twitter after the incident, thanking the doctor for assisting him despite his outburst.

“First and foremost, I want to apologize to the OG. You did everything right when you realized I was concussed, I apologize for any negative energy I brought your way,” Adams said. “Watching the replay, I am thankful for your patience knowing I wasn’t myself in that moment. You’re a real one and you serve a great purpose that benefits the NFL and so many players. Prioritizing player’s health is essential. Much respect to you!”

Though Adams apologized for his actions, the league could still punish him for berating medical personnel, who he also seemed to threaten to the point that he had to be held back on the sidelines. ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported that the league was considering serving Adams with a fine, though opponents to this measure argue that Adams was not in a sound state of mind. Some have even pointed at the NFL’s own classification of concussions, which specifically cites uncharacteristic aggression and agitation as key symptoms.

Adams last played for the Seahawks in Week 1 of the 2022 season, when he suffered a torn quad tendon that required surgery to repair. In the first quarter of his return game Monday night, he seemed to sustain the concussion while attempting to tackle Giants quarterback Daniel Jones. Adams dove at Jones’ knees and hit him headfirst. He appeared disoriented after the play and was escorted off the field. Seahawks head coach Pete Carroll said that he expects Adams to recover and plans to continue using him as a key part of the team’s defense going forward.