The Pittsburgh Steelers encountered an unsettling situation as they prepared for the NFL’s first-ever game in Ireland. Quarterback Skylar Thompson, currently on injured reserve, suffered minor injuries after being attacked and robbed Friday night in Dublin. Thankfully, Thompson is safe and has rejoined the team ahead of Sunday’s matchup with the Minnesota Vikings. In a statement released through NFL Media, Steelers senior director of communications Burt Lauten acknowledged the incident, saying the team is working with NFL security to gather more details and would not offer further comment at this time.
While the event was concerning, Pittsburgh’s quarterback depth for the game remains unchanged. Aaron Rodgers will start under center, with Mason Rudolph serving as his backup. Thompson, 28, is in his first season with the Steelers after being a seventh-round pick by the Miami Dolphins in 2022. During his time in Miami, he started three games as a rookie—including one in the playoffs—and added another start last year before moving to Pittsburgh. A strong training camp performance helped him secure a roster spot, but a hamstring injury in September placed him on injured reserve.
The Steelers traveled to Dublin following Thursday’s practice, planning to rest on the overnight flight before staying awake through Friday to adjust to the time change. They are staying at Carton House, a luxury resort located roughly 40 minutes from Dublin and less than an hour from Croke Park, where Sunday’s game will take place.
Though Thompson’s scare added an unexpected challenge to the team’s trip abroad, the Steelers remain focused on their historic game in Ireland, with their quarterback rotation intact and their eyes set firmly on the contest against the Vikings.
