Jets’ McMillan Claims Official Used Racial Epithet on the Field

Erik McMillan, New York Jet defensive back, told teammates a racial epithet from a game official prompted his strong reaction, which included spiking the ball at the official’s feet.

According to several teammates, McMillan was livid after referee Larry Nemmers allegedly called him a name late in the fourth quarter of Saturday’s 20-0 loss to New Orleans. After downing a punt shortly thereafter, McMillan spiked the ball at Nemmers’ feet after refusing to hand it to two other officials. That drew a 15-yard penalty.

“Erik said he called him a nigger,” teammate Marvin Washington said. “How’s he supposed to react? He was all fired up about it in the huddle. . . . I would say his reaction was warranted. I see no reason for him to lie. I’m not going to dog him. If it ever happened to me, I can’t say I wouldn’t react the same way.”

The NFL said Sunday it planned to discuss the incident with McMillan. Nemmers and the game officials were not available for comment after the game Saturday.

“The NFL office spoke to the referee, who denies using a racial epithet against Erik McMillan or any other player,” league spokesman Joe Browne said.