All NFL fans who have stayed after a game hoping to grab a glove or an autograph from their favorite player know the excitement that comes with it. But sometimes, fans lean a little too far.
That’s exactly what happened after the Kansas City Chiefs’ 30-27 win over the Carolina Panthers on Sunday in Week 12.
Chiefs kicker Spencer Shrader had just nailed a 31-yard game-winning field goal as time expired. Those wearing red in the crowd were hyped, and as the players left the field, a few stopped to share a moment with the fans.
Chiefs defensive tackle Tershawn Wharton was one of them. As he walked over to give a young fan his gloves, the boy fell over the barrier—right at the one spot where no fall protection bar was installed.
Kansas City Chiefs defensive tackle Tershawn Wharton (98).
© Jim Dedmon-Imagn Images
Luckily for the fan, Wharton got there just in time to catch him, saving him from possibly being seriously hurt.
The former Missouri State Bear helped the kid get back into the stands, and the security guard proceeded to clear the area, telling the fans to head back to their seats.
Wharton is in his fifth season in the NFL after being signed by the Chiefs as an undrafted free agent in 2020. This season, he has recorded 17 tackles, two passes defended and two and a half sacks.
The Chiefs look to improve to 11-1 in Week 13 when they host the Las Vegas Raiders. Kickoff on Friday is scheduled for 3 p.m. ET.
