Recent news about NFL officials has not been flattering, with harsh criticism and a few suspensions. However, Sunday presented a moment highlighting the need for respect and compassion towards them. During the game between the Jacksonville Jaguars and Houston Texans in London, umpire Larry Smith demonstrated this duality.
In the first quarter, while performing his duty of changing the ball after a play, Smith tripped on Wembley Stadium’s slick turf and fell. He managed to stand but soon collapsed again as his knee seemed to give way. Medical personnel promptly attended to him, reminding us that officials are often at the receiving end of challenges from coaches and players, yet remain human.
As Smith lay on the field receiving medical attention, line judge Carl Johnson approached him. Johnson knelt, removed his cap, and started praying for his colleague. This gesture is commonly seen among players during games, such as when Jaxson Dart suffered an injury for the Giants, or Jayden Daniels needed assistance during the Commanders-Cowboys game. Green Bay Packers players also showed support for Jayden Reed after his neck injury earlier in the season. Johnson’s action was poignant, illustrating officials supporting each other.
Smith was transported off the field via a cart due to a lower-leg injury, according to an NFL Network report. The officiating crew continued with six members instead of the standard seven. This incident adds context to the season’s other news involving officials. Notable is the October 5 suspensions, where Jeff Seeman was penalized for cursing at Arizona tight end Trey McBride, and Adrian Hill behaved confrontationally during a Minnesota Vikings game.
This touching instance underscores that officials, often referred to as ‘zebras,’ are indeed human.