The anticipated preseason matchup between the Cleveland Browns and Carolina Panthers got chippy early on Friday night.
Panthers wide receiver Xavier Legette and Browns safety Rayshawn Jenkins got into a scuffle on Carolina’s second drive of the game. The two were tangled up after the play before Legette, a second-year pro, threw a few punches at Jenkins.
Jenkins, a nine-year veteran, then proceeded to grab Legette’s helmet while the receiver tried to tackle him. As Legette went to the ground, Jenkins was able to rip off his helmet.
Officials threw several flags as a result of the melee. After an extended huddle, they called Legette and Jenkins for offsetting unsportsmanlike conduct penalties and ejected them from the game.
Jenkins, who is battling for a backup safety role in Cleveland was replaced by fellow veteran Damontae Kazee.
Meanwhile, Legette’s exit gave fellow second-year wide-out Jalen Coker more time to play with Bryce Young. The Holy Cross product made the most of it, catching a 5-yard touchdown to cap off Carolina’s second drive of the evening.