NFL Referee Accidentally Collides with Spared Player on Field
On August 10, 2025, an unusual incident occurred during the Dallas Cowboys' preseason game. NFL star CeeDee Lamb was accidentally run over by an official while standing on the sideline[1][2].
The collision took place during a long pass from Lamb's team. The referee, focused solely on the ball and unaware of Lamb's presence, ran into the back of the player, causing both to tumble onto the turf[1].
Lamb, who was rested during the game, was caught off guard and fell to the ground during the collision. However, he was not injured and joked about the incident with his teammates[2]. The referee, too, appeared to be unharmed following the collision[1].
The incident occurred in the restricted white painted area on the sideline that officials use to officiate the game. This area is usually avoided by players, making the forceful contact between the referee and Lamb an unusual occurrence[1][2][5].
The collision resulted in a 15-yard penalty against the Cowboys for sideline interference, an automatic foul when a player is in the restricted area and causes contact with an official[1][2]. Despite the unusual nature of the incident, the NFL later decided not to fine Lamb for the penalty[3][5].
The video of the incident has been shared on Twitter, and it can be found at http://twitter.com/.../P2RoVUUyJU. The incident did not lead to a significant stoppage in play during the game[1].
The incident has sparked discussion and concern about the safety of players on the sidelines during NFL games, as it highlights the need for officials to be aware of their surroundings at all times[6]. Despite this, the NFL has not released a statement regarding the incident or any potential changes to the rules or procedures for officials.
[1] [Source 1] [2] [Source 2] [3] [Source 3] [4] [Source 4] [5] [Source 5] [6] [Source 6]
One sentence could be: "Despite the NFL deciding not to fine CeeDee Lamb for the penalty, the incident has sparked discussion about the safety of players on the sidelines during American football games, as it highlights the need for officials to be aware of their surroundings at all times."
Another sentence could be: "The collision, which took place during a long pass from CeeDee Lamb's team, involved an NFL referee running into the back of the player while officiating a football game, an unusual occurrence that caused both to tumble onto the turf."
