Edmonton Elks’ defensive back Leon O’Neal Jr. was ejected from his team’s Week 16 matchup with the Winnipeg Blue Bombers for punching an opponent.
The 25-year-old rookie engaged in a post-whistle altercation with Winnipeg linebacker Michael Ayers following a kick return late in the third quarter. Both players were assessed penalties for unnecessary roughness but video replay showed O’Neal aggressively striking the Bomber twice in the helmet with an open palm, drawing an automatic ejection.
The Texas A&M product was listed as a backup strong-side linebacker on Edmonton’s depth chart but made several starts early in the year. Through 10 appearances, he has made 35 defensive tackles and seven special teams tackles.
The Elks trailed the Bombers 10-7 at the time of the incident. Eugene Lewis had scored the team’s first touchdown on the previous play from scrimmage.
