Sportsnaut
This year’s Washington Commanders are nothing like last year’s version. After all, the 2025 Commanders have already lost more games than the 2024 team did. To no surprise, those frustrations are showing up on the field too.
Fans saw the latest example during Washington’s 44-22 loss to the Detroit Lions on Sunday afternoon, when Daron Payne punched Lions receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown in the facemask. The Commanders were assessed a 15-yard penalty, and Payne was immediately kicked out of the game.
While Payne had to miss the remainder of the contest, the NFL has also suspended the one-time Pro Bowl defensive tackle for Washington’s Week 11 matchup against the Miami Dolphins on Sunday.
Payne may appeal the suspension if he wishes, which would give him a chance of not missing Sunday’s matchup. However, if Payne opts to accept the suspension or if he appeals and fails to win, then he’ll first be eligible to return after the bye week against the Denver Broncos on Nov. 30.
Payne, 28, didn’t record any stats in Washington’s loss to Detroit. But he’s tallied 30 tackles (5 for loss), a forced fumble, a sack, and a safety across 10 starts this season. His loss will certainly be felt, but considering the Commanders are already 3-7, their playoff hopes are already cooked.
Related: NFL Power Rankings 2025: Week-by-Week NFL Evaluations of All 32 Teams
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