Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Skylar Thompson was robbed and sustained minor injuries in Dublin, Ireland, as the team prepared for a regular-season game against the Minnesota Vikings. The incident, reported by the NFL Network, occurred on Friday night, with Thompson reportedly recovering well.
Steelers’ spokesperson confirmed the situation, stating the team is working with NFL security to gather more information. Thompson, who joined the Steelers in January after a stint with the Miami Dolphins, was recently activated to the roster and earned the backup role behind Aaron Rodgers. He was placed on injured reserve on Sept. 09 due to a hamstring injury. Thompson has some starting experience in the league, having been thrust into the starting role in place of Tua Tagovailoa in 2022. He started two of the seven games he appeared in during the 2022 season and one of the three games he played last season.
The Steelers and Vikings are set to play the first-ever regular-season NFL game in Dublin, a significant milestone for both teams. This event highlights the increasing global reach of American football and the growing interest in international games. The outcome of the game could have implications for both teams’ standings in the AFC North and their overall performance in the 2023 season.
Thompson’s injury raises concerns about the safety of athletes while traveling abroad and the potential impact on his availability for the upcoming games. The Steelers will need to assess his condition and determine whether he can play in the upcoming game against the Vikings. If he is unable to play, the team may have to rely on backup quarterback Mason Rudolph, who has had limited experience in the NFL.
While the incident is unfortunate, it is hoped that Thompson will recover fully and be able to contribute to the Steelers’ season. However, the team will need to focus on ensuring the safety of their players during future international travels. As the NFL continues to expand its global presence, incidents like this will need to be carefully managed to maintain the integrity of the sport and the safety of its athletes.