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Video: Matt LaFleur Slams Safety Quan Martin for Brutal Takedown That Fractured Jayden Reed’s Collarbone on Wiped-Out 39-Yard TD vs. Commanders

Green Bay, WI — Following a 27–18 win over the Commanders at Lambeau Field, head coach Matt LaFleur publicly voiced his frustration over the finishing hit by safety Quan Martin that left WR Jayden Reed with a fractured collarbone on the opening drive — the very 39-yard catch that was erased by a holding penalty on rookie OL Anthony Belton.

The sequence started with Reed’s deep grab that looked destined to be a touchdown, only for the flag to bring it back. On the finish, Martin drove Reed to the ground, and the Packers receiver stayed down before heading to the tunnel. The Amazon Prime broadcast showed Reed clutching his right arm in clear pain; he was later ruled out of the game.

Initial diagnosis confirmed a fractured collarbone, and Reed is likely headed to Injured Reserve; the typical recovery window is 6–8 weeks, depending on treatment and response. It’s a double blow for Green Bay: losing a long scoring play on the board and seeing one of their top playmakers exit with injury.

LaFleur, emphasized the unnecessary nature of the contact:
Everyone in the stadium saw it — an unnecessary, heavy shot on Jayden after the play had effectively ended. The way he was slammed looked like something off an MMA mat. That sequence needed to be handled firmly; Quan Martin’s response was anything but clean. I believe the NFL should review it for intent to injure, even if the play had already closed out.

From a tactical standpoint, the Packers are expected to redistribute slot and third-down volume to other wideouts and tight ends, lean more on 12 personnel, and expand the screen game to keep rhythm — all while maintaining a cautious approach to Christian Watson’s return timeline to minimize re-injury risk.

Watch the play (Twitter): https://x.com/BSGsportsmedia/status/1966297369974116356

Steelers Add Two Former Packers Fan Favorites to Practice Squad To Strengthen Defense Ahead Of Browns Game
  PITTSBURGH – On Wednesday, October 8, 2025, the Pittsburgh Steelers welcomed two linebackers formerly with the Green Bay Packers for a workout session. The players invited were Michael Barrett and Isaiah Simmons, as the team looks to bolster its defensive unit ahead of upcoming games. Isaiah Simmons, selected as the 8th overall pick in the 2020 NFL Draft out of Clemson, has appeared in 84 games. He has recorded 329 tackles (226 solo, 103 assisted), 8.5 sacks (74 yards), 5 interceptions (127 yards), 2 interception touchdowns, 9 forced fumbles, and 3 fumble recoveries. Simmons, who briefly signed with the Packers in 2025 but didn’t make the final roster, is known for his versatility and impressive speed. Michael Barrett, a 7th-round pick (240th overall) by the Carolina Panthers in the 2024 NFL Draft out of Michigan, has limited NFL experience. He has appeared in a few games on practice squads with teams like the Packers and Browns but has yet to record significant stats (0 tackles, sacks, or interceptions). At Michigan, Barrett had a standout final college season with 65 tackles, 3 sacks, and 3 forced fumbles. Alex Highsmith, a key linebacker for the Steelers, suffered a high ankle sprain during the team’s Week 2 loss to the Seattle Seahawks on September 14, 2025. The injury sidelined him for Weeks 3 and 4, with an estimated recovery time of 4-6 weeks. While Highsmith was not placed on injured reserve to maintain roster flexibility, he is still recovering post-bye week and expected to return soon. However, the Steelers are seeking temporary replacements for the edge rusher position. The workouts with Barrett and Simmons reflect head coach Mike Tomlin’s cautious approach to adding depth to the defense, especially after releasing Ja’Whaun Bentley and losing Jon Rhattigan to the Raiders. Simmons, with his experience and athleticism, could be an ideal short-term option to support T.J. Watt and Nick Herbig. The Steelers have not yet announced any contract decisions regarding the two linebackers. SOURCE: https://x.com/FarabaughFB/status/1976031373946388722