David Coleman Jr Fractures Fibula After Referee Collision

What changed

East Carolina defensive back David Coleman Jr fractured his fibula after a referee slipped into him during the first half against Temple at Dowdy–Ficklen Stadium.

Coleman was carried off by teammates and had an X-ray at half-time. East Carolina won 17-9; Coleman recorded one tackle before leaving.

Why it matters

This was not a routine tackle or a collision in the run of play. The referee was moving toward players near the 40-yard line when he slipped and slid into Coleman from behind.

The injury changed Coleman’s night immediately. He could not put weight on the leg, and the fracture was confirmed before the second half began. Coach Blake Harrell called the incident “wild” and said the team’s thoughts and prayers were with Coleman.

The important unknown is what comes next. The severity of the fracture and Coleman’s recovery timeline have not been reported.