Minkah Fitzpatrick draws scrutiny after hit on KC Concepcion

New York Jets safety Minkah Fitzpatrick drew scrutiny following a series of hits on Cleveland Browns rookie wide receiver KC Concepcion during a game against the Jets. During the first quarter, Fitzpatrick was flagged for a facemask penalty that pulled Concepcion’s helmet off, followed shortly by a head shot that resulted in a concussion for the rookie.

Cleveland Browns head coach Todd Monken and quarterback Deshaun Watson both characterized the incident as a “bang-bang play,” with Watson noting that Fitzpatrick appeared to be simply trying to make a play. However, offensive tackle Dawand Jones expressed strong disapproval of the contact, citing a previous incident involving Fitzpatrick and running back Nick Chubb.

Concepcion has since returned to practice as a limited participant but remains in concussion protocol, making his availability for upcoming games uncertain.