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Patriots QB Drake Maye Apologizes to Steelers Rookie for Declining Jersey Swap

Foxborough, MA — September 22, 2025 — The New England Patriots’ 21-14 loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers in Week 3 at Gillette Stadium was tough enough, but rookie quarterback Drake Maye found himself in the spotlight for a postgame incident. After the game, Maye declined a jersey swap request from Steelers rookie defensive lineman Derrick Harmon, a moment caught on camera that sparked widespread debate.

The game saw Maye shine early, throwing two touchdown passes to tight end Hunter Henry, but five turnovers—three fumbles (two by Rhamondre Stevenson, one by Antonio Gibson) and two interceptions—doomed New England. Pittsburgh’s defense, led by Harmon’s first NFL sack and T.J. Watt’s two tackles for loss, capitalized, while Aaron Rodgers sealed the win with a 17-yard touchdown pass to Calvin Austin III.

During postgame handshakes, Harmon, fresh off his NFL debut, approached Maye for a jersey swap. Visibly upset after his costly mistakes, Maye shook his head and walked off, a clip that went viral on X. Fans were divided: some empathized with Maye’s frustration after the 1-2 Patriots’ defeat, while others called the snub “disrespectful” to a fellow rookie trying to make his mark.

On Monday, Maye addressed the controversy: “I owe an apology for how I handled that. I was caught up in the moment’s frustration. Derrick’s a talented player, and I have nothing but respect for him.” He added, “Next time, I’ll be the one asking for his jersey. I can’t let emotions overshadow my leadership, and I’ll grow from this.”

The incident underscores New England’s struggles, having lost 16 of their last 19 home games. For Pittsburgh, now 2-1, the win highlighted their defensive grit despite injuries to Alex Highsmith and Max Scharping. As the Patriots face the San Francisco 49ers in Week 4, Maye’s apology reflects a lesson in leadership beyond the stat sheet—sometimes, it’s the small gestures that define a player’s character.

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49ers Owner Jed York Issues Disciplinary Action Against 49ers Fan Following Serious Altercation Outside Levi’s Stadium That Left a Disabled Seahawks Fan Hospitalized
Santa Clara, California – January 5, 2026 The San Francisco 49ers’ hard-fought win over the Seattle Seahawks should have been remembered for its intensity and playoff implications. Instead, the night took a disturbing turn away from the field. As game highlights circulated, so did a troubling video from outside Levi’s Stadium — drawing national attention to an incident that sharply conflicted with the values the franchise claims to uphold. According to authorities, a serious altercation occurred shortly after the game between a 49ers fan and a Seahawks supporter who is reportedly living with Down syndrome. What began as a verbal exchange escalated rapidly before nearby bystanders intervened. The Seahawks fan was later transported to a local hospital after experiencing dizziness and signs of shock. Law enforcement detained the 49ers fan involved, who was taken in for questioning as part of an ongoing investigation. The video spread quickly across social media, prompting widespread condemnation and shifting the conversation from football to accountability. What might have remained a deeply regrettable moment instead became a broader discussion about fan conduct, stadium safety, and responsibility at NFL venues. For an organization that has long promoted a culture of inclusion and respect, the incident stood in stark contrast to the image the 49ers have worked to cultivate. Within hours, 49ers owner Jed York made it clear the situation would not be ignored. After reviewing the incident and confirming the identity of the individual involved, York authorized immediate disciplinary action: the fan has been banned from attending games at Levi’s Stadium for the entirety of next season due to conduct deemed violent and inconsistent with team values. “This behavior is unacceptable and does not represent who we are as an organization,” York said in a statement. “Levi’s Stadium must be a place where every fan feels safe and respected. Football should bring people together — never put anyone in harm’s way.” As the 49ers now turn their focus toward the postseason, the message from ownership was unmistakable. Success on the field carries no meaning if it is not matched by accountability and responsibility beyond the sidelines.