Report: NFL investigating Steelers assistant for incident with Pats fan

NFL security is reportedly investigating Steelers tight ends coach James Daniel for allegedly assaulting a fan during Thursday night’s game against the Patriots at Gillette Stadium.

NFL security is investigating Pittsburgh Steelers tight ends coach James Daniel for allegedly assaulting a fan during Thursday night’s season opener against the New England Patriots at Gillette Stadium, reports ESPN’s Adam Schefter.

Daniel reportedly was on his way to the Steelers’ locker room at halftime when he was seen kicking a Patriots fan in the back of his leg and yelling at the fan. After Daniel returned to the coaching booth following halftime, Schefter reports police and NFL security were “waiting for him.”

After Daniel was identified by witnesses and police “approached him about controlling his behavior,” Daniel began shouting at the police officer.

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A league official confirmed to Schefter that the NFL is investigating the incident. A Steelers spokesman said NFL security had informed the Steelers about the incident, and the team will also conduct an investigation.

The Patriots won Thursday night’s game 28–21.

- Mike Fiammetta