During the first quarter of the NFL London Series game between the Houston Texans and Jacksonville Jaguars at Wembley Stadium, umpire Larry Smith collapsed on the field after slipping on the wet turf. Smith, who had been officiating the match, was attended to by medical staff and subsequently transported off the field on a medical cart.
The game continued with six officials after Smith’s departure. Line judge Carl Johnson knelt and prayed alongside Smith while he received treatment, a moment captured on camera. Smith, who serves as the principal of a middle school in Kansas in addition to his NFL officiating duties, was later seen removing his cap and raising it to the fans as they applauded.
The incident occurred during a break in play when Smith appeared to slip, leading to a non-contact leg injury. Video footage showed him attempting to stand but collapsing again due to severe pain. Medical personnel and fellow officials provided immediate care before he was removed from the field.
The Texans went on to take a 10-point lead in the second half, with Jaylin Noel scoring a touchdown reception from CJ Stroud. Jacksonville’s running back Bhayshul Tuten contributed two touchdowns for his team. The game proceeded without further officiating disruptions reported.