What's Happening?
Skylar Thompson, the backup quarterback for the Pittsburgh Steelers, was reportedly 'jumped and robbed' while in Dublin, Ireland. According to NFL Network's Tom Pelissero, the incident occurred on Friday night, resulting in minor injuries for Thompson, who is currently on injured reserve. Despite the ordeal, Thompson is reportedly okay and remains with the team. The Steelers are in Dublin to play a regular-season NFL game against the Minnesota Vikings at Croke Park. The team has acknowledged the incident but has refrained from further comment as they work with NFL security to gather more information.
Why It's Important?
The incident highlights the potential risks faced by athletes when traveling internationally, especially during high-profile events such as NFL games. The Steelers' presence in Dublin marks a significant moment as they participate in the first regular-season NFL game in Ireland, underscoring the league's efforts to expand its international footprint. The safety and well-being of players are paramount, and this incident may prompt discussions on enhancing security measures for teams playing abroad. The NFL Players Association has expressed its commitment to supporting Thompson and ensuring player safety during international games.
What's Next?
The Steelers and NFL security are actively investigating the incident to gather more details. The NFLPA has pledged to support Thompson and prioritize player safety, which may lead to increased security protocols for future international games. The Steelers' game against the Vikings will proceed as planned, but the incident may influence how teams approach security and player protection in international settings.
