If it was directly in front of you then you had the worst possible vantage point. On TV it was clear as day that his elbow was way too high and went right to the back of the guys neck. I'm sure it didn't feel too great.
A hit to the head/neck area in any sport these days is a huge deal. Tackling someone isn't on the same level. It's about safety and the players wellbeing in the future.