Packers HC Slams Rookie’s ‘Amateur Mistake’ That Made Reed’s Injury ‘Pointless’ in Commanders Win
Green Bay, September 12, 2025
The Green Bay Packers’ 27-18 triumph over the Washington Commanders this morning (Vietnam time, evening of September 11 U.S.) was marred by a costly blunder from rookie right tackle Anthony Belton, whose holding penalty nullified a 39-yard touchdown by Jayden Reed. The play resulted in Reed’s season-threatening collarbone fracture, prompting head coach Matt LaFleur to discipline Belton for what he called an “amateur mistake that made Reed’s injury pointless.”
In the first quarter, Reed’s electrifying 39-yard catch appeared to put Green Bay on the board, but Belton’s holding penalty on Commanders’ edge rusher Dorance Armstrong wiped it out. Moments later, Reed landed hard under safety Quan Martin, fracturing his collarbone. Placed on injured reserve (IR), Reed faces a 6-8 week recovery, with fears he could miss the entire 2025 season.
LaFleur didn’t hold back in his postgame remarks. “That was a basic mistake by [Belton] that cost us a touchdown and made Reed’s injury pointless,” he said. The second-round rookie, filling in for the questionable Zach Tom (oblique), was expected to protect Jordan Love’s blindside but drew scrutiny for the critical error in a pivotal moment.
Reed’s absence is a blow to the 2-0 Packers. The third-year star, who led the team with 857 receiving yards in 2024, was Love’s go-to target. With Christian Watson still on the PUP list, Green Bay now turns to rookie Matthew Golden, Romeo Doubs, and Dontayvion Wicks (questionable, shoulder) to fill the void, alongside tight end Tucker Kraft’s expanded role (six catches, 124 yards vs. Commanders).
Belton’s punishment remains unclear, but sources suggest reduced snaps or additional practice drills as LaFleur emphasizes discipline. With veterans Darian Kinnard and Jordan Morgan also vying for right tackle duties, Belton’s role could shrink if he doesn’t rebound quickly in the eyes of the coaching staff.
As the Packers head into a Week 3 matchup against the Cleveland Browns, LaFleur’s focus is on rallying his young offense. Belton’s costly mistake and Reed’s injury have raised the stakes, but Green Bay’s depth and resilience will be tested as they aim to maintain their NFC North lead and keep their Super Bowl hopes alive.
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