Jaguars' Hines-Allen in Sideline Scuffle with Ball Boy Over Travis Hunter's First Interception

A Jacksonville Jaguars player became entangled in a heated sideline exchange with an equipment staffer over possession of the ball following a significant career moment for teammate Travis Hunter.

During the Jaguars' dominant 35-6 victory against the New England Patriots, Hunter secured his first NFL interception. The former Heisman Trophy winner intercepted a pass from Patriots quarterback Drake Maye in the end zone. Following the play, as Hunter celebrated, teammate Josh Hines-Allen approached to obtain the ball for Hunter as a souvenir. However, an NFL equipment staffer intervened, taking possession of the ball and refusing to hand it over to Hines-Allen.

The staffer pushed Hines-Allen away multiple times, exclaiming, "You can't touch me!" When Hines-Allen attempted to retrieve the ball from behind, the staffer again complained, "Hey! He pushed me!"

Fans on social media widely criticized the ball boy's reaction, with many deeming it excessive. Comments suggested the staffer was being overly zealous or even attempting to profit from the situation.

Hines-Allen could potentially face a fine for his actions, despite the appearance that the ball boy escalated the confrontation. It is customary for equipment personnel to provide players with balls from significant plays, though it is not a strict requirement.

It remains unclear whether Hunter ultimately received the ball. Despite the sideline incident, Hunter reflected positively on his achievement. "It felt great, but I was on to the next play," Hunter stated. "That happened in the second quarter, so I had to finish the game."