Houston Texans quarterback Davis Mills (10) throws a pass under pressure from Buffalo Bills defensive end Joey Bosa (97) in the first half of an NFL football game Thursday, Nov. 20, 2025, in Houston.
Referee Adrian Hill was forced to leave Thursday night’s Bills vs. Texans game due to a leg injury. The incident occurred during the third quarter, causing a brief disruption in the game.
Adrian Hill was injured during a Punt
Hill was positioned in the end zone when the injury happened. While running forward to follow the play, he suddenly pulled up and limped, unable to put weight on his left leg.
Two Texans staff members assisted Hill off the field. He appeared in pain but remained conscious as he moved toward the sideline.
Quick On-Field Replacement
Before leaving, Hill handed his white referee hat to Roy Ellison, who shifted from umpire to referee. Ellison immediately took over Hill’s duties, ensuring the game continued smoothly.
Officials and team staff acted quickly to minimize disruption while Hill was assisted to the sideline.
Medical Attention and Testing
Hill was placed on a cart and driven away from the field for further evaluation. The Texans confirmed that he was being taken for medical tests to assess the severity of the leg injury.
No official update on his condition has been released yet, but the team ensured he received prompt attention.
Game Continues Amid Disruption
Despite the unexpected incident, the game resumed without major delays. Players and officials adapted quickly, maintaining the flow of play.
The injury highlights the physical demands on NFL referees, who must move quickly and constantly stay in position to monitor fast-paced plays.
Referee Injuries in Context
Although rare, injuries to NFL referees do happen. Sprinting, sudden pivots, and collisions with players can result in strains or sprains. Teams and officials always have contingency plans for such scenarios, including quick on-field replacements.
Fans witnessed the unusual moment of a referee leaving mid-game, demonstrating how even officials face physical risks during NFL contests.
Moving Forward
Hill’s condition will be closely monitored as the league evaluates the injury. His quick substitution ensured the game’s integrity remained intact, reflecting the NFL’s preparedness for unforeseen events.
The Bills vs. Texans matchup continues to draw attention, but Hill’s injury serves as a reminder of the unseen challenges referees face during high-intensity games.
