What was the controversial penalty called on P.J. Locke?

P.J. Locke was penalized for unnecessary roughness after hitting Trevor Lawrence after the whistle.

How did the P.J. Locke penalty affect the Broncos vs. Jaguars game?

The penalty gave the Jaguars a first down and field position that led to them scoring a touchdown.

Why were NFL fans upset about the P.J. Locke call?

Fans believed the call was incorrect and that it unfairly benefited the Jaguars, impacting the game's score.

Home / Sports / Referees Under Fire: Questionable Call Costs Broncos

Referees Under Fire: Questionable Call Costs Broncos

22 Dec, 2025

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Summary

A controversial unnecessary roughness penalty was called on safety P.J. Locke.
The flag against Locke occurred after the whistle, impacting play.
The penalty aided the Jaguars in scoring a touchdown, giving them a lead.

Referees Under Fire: Questionable Call Costs Broncos

In a recent NFL matchup, Denver Broncos fans voiced strong disapproval of the officiating following an unnecessary roughness penalty against safety P.J. Locke. The controversial call occurred in the first quarter of the game against the Jacksonville Jaguars.

Locke was flagged for his hit on Jaguars quarterback Trevor Lawrence after the play had concluded. This penalty proved costly for the Broncos, as it provided the Jaguars with advantageous field position. Subsequently, the Jaguars capitalized on the opportunity, scoring a touchdown pass.

The incident quickly drew widespread criticism on social media, with many fans and media personalities questioning the accuracy and timing of the referees' decision. The penalty's direct impact on the Jaguars' ability to score a touchdown intensified the debate surrounding NFL officiating standards.