The NFLPA has launched a Jonathan Gannon investigation after the Arizona Cardinals coach appeared to strike running back Emari Demercado following a costly fumble during Sunday’s loss to the Titans.
Details of the Arizona Cardinals Sideline Incident
The interaction occurred in the fourth quarter after Demercado dropped the ball before reaching the goal line on what would have been a 76-yard touchdown run. The fumble resulted in a touchback and a turnover for the Cardinals.
Following the play, videos on social media showed a heated exchange. The broadcast did not fully capture the moment where it appeared Jonathan Gannon strikes Emari Demercado in the midsection.
Gannon Addresses Interaction, Apologizes to Team
Head coach Jonathan Gannon addressed the situation with the media on Monday, stating he “didn’t feel great about it.” He confirmed that he apologized to both the player and the team.
“So in the team meeting I addressed it, I apologized to Emari, apologized to the team,” Gannon said. “I just told them I let the moment of what happened get the better of me.“
Gannon further explained his reaction was out of character. “I try to be emotionally stable and calm because my job to solve problems during the game,” he stated. “It’s not really who I am, who I want to be, and I told the guys that today. So it’s a mistake by me.“
NFLPA Launches Jonathan Gannon Investigation
The NFL Players Association has confirmed it is “investigating” the heated sideline interaction. The organization is looking into the exchange that took place between Gannon and Demercado after the critical turnover.
Emari Demercado Fumble Proves Costly in Loss
The Emari Demercado fumble was a major turning point in the game against the Tennessee Titans. A touchdown on the play would have extended Arizona’s lead to 21 points.
Instead, the turnover allowed the Titans to rally from behind for a 22-21 victory. The loss was the Cardinals’ third straight defeat.
