Bobby Wagner’s tackle of pink-clad protester leads to police report
Oct 5, 2022, 4:10 PM | Updated: 4:13 pm
A protester with a smoke bomb is tackled on the field by Los Angeles Rams' Bobby Wagner, #45 Takkarist McKinley #50 and a security guard during their NFL game against the San Francisco 49ers at Levis Stadium in Santa Clara, Calif., on Monday, Oct. 3, 2022. (Jane Tyska/Digital First Media/East Bay Times via Getty Images)
(Jane Tyska/Digital First Media/East Bay Times via Getty Images)
A streaker, who made highlights Monday night after Seahawks legend and current Los Angeles Rams linebacker Bobby Wagner tackled him on the field, has now filed a report with Santa Clara police over the physical contact, according to TMZ.
The incident happened shortly before halftime after he burst onto the field during Monday night’s matchup between the Rams and San Francisco 49ers.
Two protestors charged the field, donning pink shirts that advertised the Direct Action Everywhere organization, and were holding pink smoke bombs. The male protester eluded security, while the female protestor was detained before stepping on the field. After dodging guards for a brief moment on the gridiron, Bobby Wagner and Takkarist McKinley of the Rams took him to the ground.
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The man went to the Santa Clara Police Department the following day and filed the report, according to TMZ. The department’s spokesperson did not reveal any further details. Both were detained, cited, and released.
Direct Action Everywhere, the organization that took credit for the wild scene at Levi’s Stadium told KIRO Newsradio the police report stems from a “blatant assault” by the two Rams players.
According to Direct Action Everywhere, the individuals performed the stunt to raise awareness for a trial involving the alleged theft of pigs from a factory farm. The organization said the man suffered a burn injury during the incident.
“Otherwise,” they said in a statement, “they’re a bit beaten up but in good spirits.”
For his part, the eight-time All-Pro linebacker Wagner said he jumped in to help security for safety reasons.
“You don’t know what that fan got or what they’re doing,” Wagner said. He has not been arrested or charged with any crime.
The viral moment crescendoed with comments from Peyton and Eli Manning, hosts of ESPN2’s “ManningCast” broadcast.
“Yes, yes! That’s what we’re talking about,” Peyton said. “Wagner, a veteran. Get him down. Now, get out and let these guys take over. Bobby Wagner, veteran play.
“Good tackle on the half streaker, right?” Peyton continued. “Nice form there, but let’s try to tackle Deebo [Samuel] the same way.”
The Los Angeles Rams lost 24-9 to the division rival San Francisco 49ers.
