Colts linebacker Erik Walden‘s decision to go head-to-head with Tennessee’s Delanie Walker will force him to watch this weekend’s game from the sidelines.
Walden has been suspended one game by the NFL after ripping off Walker’s helmet and headbutting him during last Thursday’s win over the Titans, FOX Sports and ESPN reported Monday afternoon.
The Middle Tennessee State product was assessed a 15-yard unsportsmanlike conduct penalty for his actions but was not ejected. ESPN’s Chris Mortensen reports that if Walden had been thrown out of the game, he likely would not have been suspended.
Walden apologized for what he called a “selfish” play after the game, but that did not prevent Walker from going off on his opponent in the locker room.
“That’s dirty play, there is no need for stuff like that in the NFL,” Walker told reporters, via ESPN. “If you’re getting your butt kicked, get your butt kicked. Don’t rip somebody’s helmet off and then headbutt them. I’m surprised he didn’t get ejected. …
“Dang, this is a sport we all play with each other, we’re all family, this is a fraternity. For you to do some senseless act like that, that just tells me what type of player you are. There is no need to talk. I’m going to see him in two weeks and I’m going to whoop his butt again.”
Walden has the right to appeal his suspension, which would be served this Sunday against the Cardinals in Arizona.
