He was surrounded by half a team trying to provoke him in any way they could, including physically. I would argue it is defensive/minor retaliation with minimal capacity to cause injury.
Looking towards next weeks it appears Sicily has been suspended for protecting himself against an Essendon player trying to be tough (which is rare). The MRP is a shambles.
Admitting I have never seen Jefferson live (or on TV) but Jack Watts becoming a handy defender during his last years with the Dees and maybe Jefferson has similar traits.
It does not bother me which end of the field Jefferson flourishes; as long as he does.