Houston Texans coach Bill O’Brien provided more details as to why rookie defensive tackle Ross Blacklock was disqualified from Sunday’s 33-16 loss to the Baltimore Ravens at NRG Stadium.
With 4:42 to go in the fourth quarter, Blacklock was disqualified for unnecessary roughness. There wasn’t a discernable reason, and after the game O’Brien said he didn’t get to talk to Blacklock about it as he was escorted to the locker room upon disqualification.
O’Brien told reporters Monday that he has spoken to Blacklock about the ejection.
“Yeah, I have spoken to him,” O’Brien said. “I didn’t see it on the tape, but I know that it happened. So, yeah, I’ve spoken to him.”
According to NFL on CBS color commentator Trent Green, Blacklock appeared to shove a Ravens offensive player after running back Mark Ingram rushed for three yards.
O’Brien elaborated on what that shove may have entailed.
“I just know what the official told me so I’m not trying to — I didn’t see it either, but the official told me that he threw a punch which I think you probably already know that,” said O’Brien. “I’m just saying that’s what the official told me, and we’ve addressed it and we’ll continue to address it today.”
Defensive end J.J. Watt referred to Blacklock’s disqualification as “selfish,” but similarly did not explain what the 2020 second-round pick from TCU did to get thrown out of the game.
Friday is when the league office sends their fines to NFL players. It is not known yet if Blacklock will get fined. The defensive tackle should be able to play against the Pittsburgh Steelers in Week 3 at Heinz Field.