Jamie Collins’ tenure with the Cleveland Browns had a rather ominous beginning Sunday.
In the first quarter of his first game since his shocking trade from the New England Patriots, the linebacker lost Jason Witten in coverage, allowing the Dallas Cowboys tight end to haul in a 26-yard touchdown pass.
Cleveland went on to lose 35-10, and a few fans on Twitter saw that ugly result and Collins’ early mistake as a chance to chirp the Pro Bowl linebacker.
Glad we got rid of him
— Ezdagz (@Ezdagz) November 6, 2016
https://twitter.com/JustChillin247/status/795332319548731392
freelancing doesn't pay.
— Seattle Spectre (@seattle_patriot) November 6, 2016
Collins loses another long in the tooth TE in coverage. Yawn.
— Moose🇵🇸🥥🌴 (@PeaceSignMoose) November 6, 2016
But not everyone was on board with ripping Collins — most notably his ex-teammate, Aaron Dobson. Late Sunday, the former New England Patriots wide receiver decided to call out the haters.
The fact I see pats fans dissn my mans Jamie 😑😑 #icant
— Aaron Dobson 3 (@aarondobson17) November 6, 2016
One fan suggested all the hate was just a way of New England fans trying to cope with losing who they thought was one of their better defensive players. Apparently Dobson, like several of his other former teammates, thinks very highly of Collins’ talent, as well.
has nothin to do w his play on the field..Just know that!
— Aaron Dobson 3 (@aarondobson17) November 6, 2016
Collins will be an easy target for Patriots fans on the 0-9 Browns, but in light of recent reports, this move might have been best for both teams in the long run. And it appears his old teammates will continue to have his back.
Thumbnail photo via Ken Blaze/USA TODAY Sports Images
