New Lions linebacker Jamie Collins Sr. ejected from game vs. Bears

Detroit — Linebacker Jamie Collins Sr., one of the Lions’ biggest offseason additions, had an early exit in the first half of the season opener.

Collins was ejected in the second quarter after an unsportsmanlike-conduct penalty. He appeared to be trying to demonstrate that Chicago Bears running back David Montgomery led with his helmet as Collins was trying to tackle him.

In the demonstration, Collins ducked his helmet and made contact with referee Alex Kemp, who immediately threw a penalty flag. With the announcement of the unsportsmanlike conduct, Kemp added that Collins was ejected from the game.

Kemp said following the game that he saw Collins coming toward him and explained his decision to eject Collins.

 “Players are allowed to touch officials, put a hand on your shoulder, or something of that nature, but unnecessary contact with a game official — it’s Rule 12-3-1-E — covers unnecessary contact to a game official. So, that’s what I went with.”

According to the rule, “Unnecessary physical contact with a game official. Under no circumstance is a player allowed to shove, push, or strike an official in an offensive, disrespectful, or unsportsmanlike manner. The player shall be disqualified from the game.”

Kemp said he did not feel as if Collins was trying to explain his side of the story, that a penalty should have been called against Montgomery.

“I judged it as unnecessary, so I called a foul,” Kemp said. “I decided to eject the player.”

The Lions signed Collins, an eight-year veteran, after he played with the New England Patriots last season.

Rod.Beard@detroitnews.com

Twitter: @detnewsRodBeard