Washington Commanders defensive tackle Daron Payne has sought to defend his controversial punch at Detroit Lions wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown by posting an Instagram story showing video evidence of the alleged initial incident.

incident. According to the footage Payne shared, St. Brown threw the first punch during a heated exchange, with an official positioned directly nearby witnessing the confrontation.

During the second quarter of Sunday’s lopsided 44-22 loss to the Lions, Payne was ejected after punching St. Brown in the helmet following a Jahmyr Gibbs rushing touchdown. The NFL subsequently suspended the eight-year veteran for one game without pay for unsportsmanlike conduct.

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