Jefferson player ejected after tackling Grant teammate carrying American flag

A Jefferson High School football player was ejected Friday night after tackling a Grant High School player who was carrying an American flag onto the field before their rivalry game in Portland, Oregon.

The incident occurred during the pre‑game walk‑on for the Portland Interscholastic League matchup that also served as Jefferson’s senior night and homecoming. Video posted on X by campaign manager Taren Feist showed the Grant player jogging with a large flag when a Jefferson defender charged, bringing the opponent to the turf.

Jefferson’s athletic director, Donnie Siel, and principal Drake Shelton did not return requests for comment, and the school’s football Instagram account, which posted a statement that the video was not intended to disrespect the flag, was later deleted. The statement also claimed the team felt disrespected by Grant players and staff before the game.

The Oregon School Activities Association (OSAA) released a statement confirming it was aware of the pre‑game incident, noting that the Jefferson player was ejected and did not participate in the contest. OSAA said, “Rivalry game or not, there’s no place for this behavior before, during, or after an interscholastic contest.”

Grant proceeded to dominate the game, defeating Jefferson 35‑14. The loss moved Jefferson’s season record to 1‑6, while Grant improved to 6‑1.

The rivalry between the two schools has a record of heightened tension, including a 2017 brawl that prompted police intervention and an inquiry by school leaders.

As of now, no further disciplinary action has been announced beyond the ejection, and OSAA indicated it will continue to monitor conduct in the league.