Football is one of the most physical sports out there, and injuries are inevitable. However, that is no excuse for intentionally trying to injure someone with a dirty play, but that’s exactly what Nathan Shepherd tried to do to Justin Herbert. During their Week 8 matchup, Shepherd wrapped up and twisted the star quarterback’s leg after Herbert already released the ball. The quarterback fell to the ground, clearly in pain and looking for a flag.
Seeing the whole thing play out, center Bradley Bozeman did not wait for the officials to intervene. Taking it upon himself to dish out justice, the former Carolina Panther hit Shepherd while he was still on the ground, rolling him away from his quarterback and keeping him down before the officials could separate the two.
Dirty play by Nathan Shepherd. Bozeman rightfully responds pic.twitter.com/1Q03QOI6zA
— Billy M (@BillyM_91) October 27, 2024
Bradley Bozeman Delivers Punishment After Dirty Play on Justin Herbert
Flag or not, this is exactly what you want to see from your offensive lineman. Quarterback is the most important position in the game, both from a production standpoint and a leadership angle. Justin Herbert has battled foot and ankle injuries throughout the season, and Shepherd clearly tried to aggravate that ailment with his dirty play. Bozeman immediately put a stop to this, delivering some justice and showing Shepherd that these types of plays will not be tolerated.
It’s safe to assume that Bozeman’s hit will not be the only punishment Nathan Shepherd will receive for this dirty play on Justin Herbert. The NFL takes player safety incredibly seriously, especially for quarterbacks. The league does not shy away from handing out fines for questionable hits, and Shepherd’s actions easily cross the line of acceptable play. The defensive lineman clearly tried to injure Herbert on this play, so don’t be surprised if he receives a massive fine and a multi-game suspension for this shameful decision.
Main Photo: Jayne Kamin-Oncea – USA Today Sports
