Allen takes high road on DHB hit

ALAMEDA -- Raiders coach Dennis Allen took the high road in his Monday media conference when asked about the clear helmet-to-helmet hit put on receiver Darrius Heyward-Bey by Pittsburgh safety Ryan Mundy the day before in the Raiders' 34-31 victory.Rather than rip or blast, Allen said the most important development was Heyward-Bey expected to make a full recovery after being diagnosed with a concussion and neck strain and spending the night at Eden Medical Center for observation.NEWS: Heyward-Bey released from hospital
"Its the game of football," Allen said. "I dont think people are trying to go out there and hurt people. The safety was playing the game fast and physical. Its a tough game to play when youre making split-second decisions on how you play the game. Its the unfortunate things that happen in this game but we move on from it."No flag was thrown on the play, though it is assumed Mundy will be fined by the NFL for the hit."It's a judgement call," Allen said.Allen said he spoke with Heyward-Bey Monday morning."He sounded tired," Allen said. "But hes doing O.K. He was in good spirits. Hes doing fine and were looking forward to getting him back."Beyond the concussion, the neck strain is an added element the Raiders have to factor in when it comes to a prognosis for Heyward-Bey's return."Hes a guy that were going to have to continue to evaluate and see where hes at," Allen said.With Heyward-Bey's availability in question this weekend in Denver, Allen was also asked if the Raiders and general manager Reggie McKenzie would scour the wires for another wide receiver."That's a potential," Allen said. "We'll look at that. Reggie and I will get together and talk personnel probably this afternoon, so we'll see."Less then two weeks ago, though, McKenzie nixed the idea of Terrell Owens, Chad Johnson andor Plaxico Burress.And while the situation has changed, it seems more likely the Raiders simply elevate rookie Juron Criner, who was a healthy scratch against the Steelers, especially with a bye week following the Broncos game.