There was a moment after Sunday’s Week 7 game of the Buccaneers when wide receiver Mike Evans got involved in a discussion with the referees inside the tunnel. It was speculated as if the judges were asking for his photograph, passing him a piece of paper and a pen. But after a thorough investigation, the conclusions have arrived. It happens that a senior alum was helping his junior to get some pro golf lessons.
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The Bucs’ 21-3 loss to the Panthers was the highlight of Week 7, with experts and fans equally worried about the team’s performance. Especially the elite wideout, Mike Evans, missing a crucial pass from Tom Brady for a touchdown in the first quarter, which eventually broke the momentum.
The game ended without a single touchdown for the first time since losing against the Saints 9-0 last year. While it was a hell of a disappointment, Evans got involved in a controversy walking back to the locker room. He was stopped by side judge Jeff Lamberth and line Judge Trip Sutter with a piece of paper and pen.
The NFL is reviewing the incident involving side judge Jeff Lamberth and line judge Tripp Sutter, I’m told.
The NFL-NFLRA CBA specifically says game officials “shall not… ask players, coaches or any other team personnel for autographs or memorabilia.” pic.twitter.com/2suFfK3MWL
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) October 24, 2022
Such things are against the protocols and thus created a new stir across social media. Soon, the NFL announced an investigation into the incident, which went viral on social media instantly.
Well, the investigation finally got over, and the league released a statement based on their findings. Something that fans found bizarre at first. Interestingly, Lamberth and Evans both went to Texas A&M, and the judge was asking the veteran for his phone number to pass it to a golf pro. As he didn’t have paper at that moment, he asked his colleague, Sutter, who was available on the sidelines. NFL insider Tom Pelissero tweeted the findings based on the investigation.
“Full story: #Bucs WR Mike Evans and side judge Jeff Lamberth both went to Texas A&M, and Lamberth was getting Evans’ phone number to pass it along to a golf pro to give Evans lessons, per sources. Lamberth didn’t have paper, so he borrowed it from another official.” it read.
NFL world reacts to Mike Evans seeking golf lessons
The four-time Pro Bowler is playing in his 9th NFL season. He has proved to be a reliable weapon for the franchise. However, it seems the veteran is desperate to acquire new skills like golf. Just like his quarterback who flexes his muscles at least once a year, appearing at a golf course. However, fans just couldn’t get through it.
Wow what a coincidence bc when Tom Brady signed his jersey for Jerome Boger after the Falcons game, he was just leaving his phone number to get in touch with a golf pro as well!
— Luke Smith (@LuuukeSmith) October 25, 2022
HAHAHAHA THEYRE LYING TO OUR FACES
— Alex NFL All Day 🏈✌🏻 (@AlexNFLAllDay) October 25, 2022
That shit is too much details to sound realistic
— Atef (@AboutToRatioU) October 25, 2022
However, few of them claimed that they made Evans look bad.
The NFL didn’t just protect it’s officials by making Mike Evans look bad 🤦🏻♂️🤦🏻♂️🤦🏻♂️
— ! (@MileH1ghSalute) October 25, 2022
Did they go to A&M at the same time?
— Ewing Klipspringer (@_Klipspringer) October 25, 2022
While others couldn’t get past the catch-dropping incident.
How about focusing on catching the ball Mike?
— Cousin Greg (@ElChapo039) October 25, 2022
Super focused. Love it.
— Josh Earsley (@joshearsley) October 25, 2022
That dropped pass tho… pic.twitter.com/jeMwuW1raH
— B (@Brian_Chinnici) October 25, 2022
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maybe he should have football catching lessons first how about that
— Andrew (@ATG8837) October 25, 2022
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According to the protocols drafted by the league, referees or officials cannot interact with the players or franchise owners/members throughout the game day. Not even in the pre-game or post-game period. Pelissero also mentioned that the judges have been reminded of this notion no matter how serious the issues are.
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