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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.
Packers WR Jayden Reed has a TD negated due to penalty and suffers an  injury on same play - Yahoo Sports

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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Roster Move: Right after the injury of DT Milton Williams, the Patriots immediately signed the former Chiefs star to the practice squad to strengthen the defensive depth ahead of the showdown with the Bengals
Foxborough, Massachusetts – November 19, 2025 Immediately after the news that defensive tackle Milton Williams suffered a long-term injury and will be sidelined, the New England Patriots made an urgent roster move to reinforce their defensive line. The team officially announced the signing of former Kansas City Chiefs defensive tackle Fabien Lovett Sr. to the practice squad. This decision comes just days before the Patriots begin their preparation week for a massive showdown against the Cincinnati Bengals, a team known for its powerful interior offensive attack. Lovett is a familiar name to scouts after his college career at Mississippi State and Florida State before joining the Chiefs in 2024. He brings an impressive frame, excellent run-stopping ability, and standout hand strength. Although he has not yet had many opportunities to play in the NFL, Patriots evaluators believe Lovett can become a perfect fit in head coach Mike Vrabel’s defensive system if properly developed. The addition of Lovett is viewed as a necessary step as the Patriots face a serious depth shortage on the interior defensive line, with Williams out and several other key players still not fully healthy. Adding depth at defensive tackle has been deemed absolutely critical ahead of facing the Bengals, who consistently attack the middle of the defense. Foxborough is therefore hopeful that Lovett will integrate quickly and become a reliable rotational option. In his first media availability, Fabien Lovett Sr. showed determination and gratitude for the opportunity the Patriots have given him: “I’m going to give everything I have every single day — every practice, every snap. I want to prove to Coach Vrabel that I deserve a spot in the Patriots ranks. This is an opportunity and I’m not going to waste it.” The straightforward statement left a strong impression on reporters at Gillette. Despite currently being only a practice-squad signing, Lovett is projected to have a fast track to the active roster if he performs well. The current situation is forcing the Patriots to stay flexible and ready to give chances to players with the right attitude. With clear determination and motivation, Lovett is expected to become a surprise contributor that helps the New England defense stand firm against the major challenge named the Cincinnati Bengals.