The Pittsburgh Steelers are dealing with an unexpected off-field incident just days before the NFL’s first-ever regular-season game in Ireland. Backup quarterback Skylar Thompson was jumped and robbed Friday night in Dublin, suffering minor injuries in the attack.
Fortunately, the 28-year-old QB — who is currently on injured reserve — is okay and back with the team ahead of Sunday’s matchup against the Minnesota Vikings.
“We are aware of a situation involving Skylar Thompson on Friday night in Dublin,” said Steelers senior director of communications Burt Lauten in a statement shared with NFL Media. “We will have no further comment at this time as we are working with NFL security to gather more information regarding the incident.”
Despite the incident, the Steelers’ quarterback depth remains unchanged. Aaron Rodgers is set to start, with Mason Rudolph backing him up against Minnesota.
The NFL Players Association also issued a statement expressing relief that Thompson is recovering:
“We are aware of the incident involving Skylar Thompson in Ireland and are relieved to know he is okay,” the NFLPA said. “The NFLPA is actively gathering more information and working to understand the full circumstances surrounding what took place. As always, our priority is the health and safety of our player members — especially as we continue to work on player protections and well-being while playing international games — and we will continue to support Skylar in any way he needs.”
Thompson is in the midst of his first season with Pittsburgh. A former seventh-round pick, he started three games, including a playoff appearance, as a rookie with the Miami Dolphins, and made one additional start last season before joining the Steelers.
While the incident adds an unexpected wrinkle to the NFL’s historic week in Ireland, both the league and the Steelers are focused on ensuring Thompson’s safety and supporting him as the investigation continues.


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