The Washington Commanders’ trying day against the Detroit Lions got even more difficult early in the second quarter on Sunday.
Commanders defensive tackle Daron Payne was ejected for the remainder of the game for striking Lions wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown after a touchdown.
After hitting the side of St. Brown’s helmet, Payne was flagged for unsportsmanlike conduct and sent off.
It was not immediately clear what provoked Payne’s response.
The Lions extended their lead after running back Jahmyr Gibbs ran 13 yards for a touchdown on the previous play. Commanders linebacker Frankie Luvu and cornerback Trey Amos were both injured on the play. After a two-point conversion, Detroit went up 22-3.
Payne, 28, is a former Pro Bowl selection (2022) who is Washington’s highest-paid defensive player.
The Commanders entered the contest on a four-game losing skid, with the last three defeats all coming by 21 points or more.