VIDEO: Mason Rudolph Appears to Be Knocked Out Cold After Brutal Hit From Earl Thomas
By Michael Luciano
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Mason Rudolph was dropping dimes against Lamar Jackson and the Baltimore Ravens in a division rivalry game, throwing for 105 yards and a touchdown as the Steelers trailed 17-13 in the third quarter. But with one controversial hit from Ravens safety Earl Thomas, football became totally secondary, as Rudolph appeared to be knocked unconscious and lied limp on the field.
Mason Rudolph knocked out on this hit. No flag. pic.twitter.com/zjs92AI904
— Alex Kozora (@Alex_Kozora) October 6, 2019
There was a bit of controversy on this hit, as Thomas was not even flagged, despite making contact with Rudolph's helmet. Rudolph was out before he even hit the ground. There is no other word for such a situation other than horrifying.
Mason Rudolph knocked out cold. Scary play.. pic.twitter.com/HUcZyPuvRI
— Jonesy (@RoyJonesy) October 6, 2019
Both teams gathered around Rudolph as he was stretchered off the field. Former Samford quarterback Delvin Hodges came in to replace Rudolph.
Both teams are out on the field. Very scary moment here at Heinz field pic.twitter.com/8rM0v6a40H
— Charlie Batch (@CharlieBatch16) October 6, 2019
To add insult to injury, the cart malfunctioned, and Rudolph was eventually carried out.
Mason Rudolph had to be carried off the field because the medical cart malfunctioned. pic.twitter.com/186nVyVxtp
— NFL Update (@MySportsUpdate) October 6, 2019
He will not return, officially diagnosed with a concussion.
Official word: #Steelers QB Mason Rudolph has a concussion and will not return.
— NFL Update (@MySportsUpdate) October 6, 2019
Rudolph has unfortunately joined Jamaal Williams and Avonte Maddox on a list of players who have had to be carted off of the field on a stretcher this season.
The Mason Rudolph injury is terrifying. He was knocked out on the way down and then hit his head a second time on the ground.
— ProFootballTalk (@ProFootballTalk) October 6, 2019
Hopefully Rudolph's injury wasn't as season-threatening as it looked live, and he can return to action soon. Moments after leaving the field, he was up and conversing with the coaching staff.