NFL officials constantly are at risk of injury as they try to position themselves to make accurate calls amid 22 young, large, fast, strong men in armor. On Saturday, line judge Sarah Thomas has that risk become a potential injury.
Thomas took a helmet to the midsection from Vikings tight end Kyle Rudolph as he was being tackled near the sideline by Packers safety Morgan Burnett. Thomas landed hard and exited the game.
There are conflicting reports as to whether she was checked for a concussion (she appeared to hit her head on the ground) or whether he had a potential wrist injury. Either way, she received clearance to return to action.