Kathrine Frich
A regular-season NFL match that drew the attention of the U.S. president quickly turned controversial after tempers flared between two opposing players.
What began as a moment of celebration ended with one player being ejected and social media erupting in debate.
Tension on the field
The Detroit Lions defeated the Washington Commanders 44–22, but the scoreline was overshadowed by a confrontation between defensive lineman Daron Payne and receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown.
Cameras captured Payne striking St. Brown shortly after a touchdown celebration. Officials ejected him from the game immediately.
Fans shared mixed reactions online. One viewer wrote, “As a leader of Washington’s defense, Daron Payne should know better than to throw a punch on the field.”
Another commented that his behavior “was stupid, especially from a veteran.”
Presidential presence
The game attracted national attention because President Donald Trump attended, becoming the first sitting U.S. president in fifty years to watch a regular-season NFL game.
Arriving late and leaving early, he was greeted with loud boos as he addressed the crowd from his box.
After the game, St. Brown told The Guardian he knew Trump would be there and wanted “to have some fun” with his touchdown celebration.
He pointed toward the presidential box and mimed Trump’s characteristic dance, unaware that the president had already left.
Fallout and reactions
Payne’s reaction was immediate and led to his ejection. In the locker room, teammate Javon Kinlaw defended him.
“Daron only retaliated because the refs literally saw the first punch,” he said.
“I don’t blame him for the way he reacted. Tempers got to flying, it is what it is, it’s a physical game.”
League officials have yet to confirm whether further disciplinary action will follow.
The incident has revived discussions about discipline, sportsmanship, and political gestures on the field.
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