The Philadelphia Eagles witnessed their second setback of the season during their Week 13 game against the San Francisco 49ers. Amid the 49ers’ “revenge night,” the Eagles’ head security officer, Dom DiSandro, who is popularly known as Big Dom, found his name in the spotlight due to an ugly and unexpected brawl with 49ers linebacker Dre Greenlaw.
Since the NFL is much harsh when it comes to maintaining discipline on the field, following the unwanted situation the league came forward with a stern warning for all non-players involved in off-field play.
NFL issues stern warning to all the teams
An intense sideline altercation occurred when Greenlaw forcefully tackled DeVonta Smith, leading to a heated exchange between the players. Dom DiSandro intervened, placing his hand on Greenlaw’s shoulder, provoking a retaliatory swipe from the linebacker.
Post-incident, Greenlaw and DiSandro extended apologies, attempting to diffuse tensions surrounding the on-field clash. Nevertheless, the fallout has extended beyond apologies, prompting the NFL to issue a stern warning.
The league emphasized the potential consequences for non-players, like security officers, who intrude onto the playing field during confrontations. In response to the incident, the NFL circulated a memo to all 32 teams cautioning against similar occurrences in the future, underscoring the gravity of maintaining order on the sidelines.
“Please ensure that all members of your game-day staff understand that their role does not extend to being involved with game day altercations and that they must refrain from such involvement,” the statement read.
Furthermore, an October 18 memo pointedly addressed the increase in altercations before and after games, warning that team personnel engaged in such incidents might be subject to substantial fines and suspensions without pay. Building on this, a September 13 memo explicitly outlined guidelines for the conduct of non-player personnel, setting the framework for potential accountability measures.
Did the NFL punish Dom DiSandro?
Following the heated sideline clash between Dom DiSandro and Dre Greenlaw, resulting in their ejection, the NFL remains vigilant in addressing the incident. Nonetheless, the repercussions extend beyond the ejection from the game.
The league has yet to conclude its review of the matter, stating that “the matter remains under review,” leaving the door open for potential disciplinary actions against both Dom DiSandro and the Eagles. A “high-level executive” hinted to Pro Football Talk that “significant punishment” might be on the horizon for DiSandro and the Eagles due to the security officer’s unconventional involvement.
Dom DiSandro, in his 25th year as an Eagles security officer, surprised many with his participation in the brawl. Despite the shock, 49ers coach Kyle Shanahan has expressed his belief that the Eagles’ security officer should not face additional punishment.
Which potential punishment is waiting for Dom DiSandro and the Eagles, according to your opinion? Share with us in the comment box.
