Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce called out the same referee that called the roughing the passer on Chris Jones all the way back in 2016.
The Kansas City Chiefs vs. Las Vegas Raiders game was highlighted by a controversial penalty on defensive lineman Chris Jones.
In the second quarter, Jones strip-sacked Raiders quarterback Derek Carr to give the football back to the Chiefs. However, the referees determined that Jones had actually committed a roughing the passer penalty on the sack, causing Chiefs fans at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium erupt in jeers.
The referee who made the call was Carl Cheffers. It just so happens that tight end Travis Kelce had beef with him, dating back to a playoff game all the way back in 2016.
Travis Kelce had beef with referee Carl Cheffers back in 2016 season
In an AFC Divisional Round game against the Pittsburgh Steelers, Cheffers was part of the officiating crew. Cheffers called offensive tackle Eric Fisher for holding on what would have been a successful two-point conversion attempt that would have tied the game.
After the 18-16 loss to the Steelers, Kelce did not mince words when asked about Cheffers.
“It’s ignorance. The ref, No. 51 shouldn’t be able to wear a zebra jersey ever again,” said Kelce. “He shouldn’t even be able to work at f–king Foot Locker.”
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Kelce was fined $12, 500 for his comments towards Cheffers. He told ESPN’s Sal Palontonio at the Pro bowl that year that he apologized “for saying it in that manner.”
Now, Cheffers has reacquainted himself with the Chiefs fanbase after the controversial call on Jones. The penalty wiped out the fumble and gave the Raiders the first down.
Let’s just say that this call will be talked about in the lead up to the Week 6 games.