The NFL has issued a one-game suspension to Washington Commanders defensive tackle Daron Payne after he took a swing at Detroit Lions wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown during Sunday’s 44–22 defeat at Northwest Stadium, the league confirmed Monday.

Payne was ejected in the second quarter for unsportsmanlike conduct and unnecessary roughness following a touchdown by Lions running back Jahmyr Gibbs. After the score, Payne appeared to throw a punch at St. Brown — who still had his helmet on — in what looked like an unprovoked outburst.

According to a team source, the former first-round draft pick intends to appeal the suspension. The case will be reviewed by one of three former NFL players: Jordy Nelson, Derrick Brooks, or Ramon Foster.

Postgame, teammate Javon Kinlaw defended Payne’s actions, claiming that St. Brown struck first.“The refs literally saw the first punch,” Kinlaw said. “I can’t fault him for how he reacted. Things got heated — it’s a physical sport.”

Kinlaw was later flagged for unsportsmanlike conduct on the extra point after making contact with an official.

Washington’s defense grew visibly frustrated as the game slipped away. Safety Quan Martin was also penalized for unsportsmanlike conduct during another extra point attempt.“It’s tough. Every week there’s something new,” Martin said after the Commanders’ fifth straight loss. “We just have to stay together. We always talk about brotherhood, and these are the moments when that really matters.”