Jen Welter Becomes First Woman to Play Running Back in a Professional Football Game
On Saturday, Jen Welter became the first woman non-kicker or placekick-holder to play in a men’s pro football game.
Welter suited up at running back for the Texas Revolution in a game against the North Texas Crunch in the 8-on-8 Indoor Football League. Although Welter, who is 5-2, 130-pounds (which is admittedly quite small for a running back, regardless of sex) was walloped for a loss on her first carry (video below) to her credit, she got back up.
“I said, ‘Is that all you got?’" Welter told the Dallas Morning News. “They (Crunch players) were getting all alive, and I had to say something. I didn’t want them to think I was intimidated.”
GALLERY: Classic photos of Jen Welter
One might question the efficacy of only giving a player of that size goal line carries, but ultimately, Welter's main ambition is to break down barriers as opposed to long runs. "It’s really not about me. It’s about them and the future of the sport."
Louis Ojeda Jr. uploaded a few Instagram videos of Welter's carries:
Welter's first carry:
Welter's second carry:
Welter's third carry:
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