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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

Pittsburgh Steelers Reach Agreement with Safety Shilo Sanders, Pending Medical Evaluation Amid Personal Drama, per source
The Pittsburgh Steelers are adding intrigue to their practice squad plans, reaching an agreement with safety Shilo Sanders. The deal remains subject to a medical evaluation before it can be made official, leaving his status uncertain. Sanders, son of Hall of Famer Deion Sanders, brings both pedigree and baggage. Known for his ball-hawking instincts, he also carries a reputation for injuries and personal drama that have followed him throughout his career. Undrafted in 2025, Sanders signed with Tampa Bay and appeared in three preseason games. His stint ended abruptly after an ejection against Buffalo for unnecessary roughness, prompting the Buccaneers to waive him on August 24. Despite the setback, Pittsburgh sees potential value. Sanders collected 161 tackles, 11 interceptions, and six forced fumbles across 41 college games, with his 2023 season at Colorado highlighting his ability to create turnovers and lead a defense. The Steelers’ secondary has dealt with depth concerns, and Sanders’ versatility offers a possible solution. He can rotate at safety, provide nickel coverage, and contribute on special teams — all traits valued in Pittsburgh’s defensive culture. However, health remains the deciding factor. Sanders suffered an ACL tear in 2022 and missed time again in 2024 due to nagging injuries. Team doctors will determine whether his body can withstand NFL competition. Layered over the medical risk is the personal drama surrounding Sanders. Legal battles, financial trouble, and family headlines have raised questions about his focus, but the Steelers have a history of managing strong personalities. For Sanders, joining Pittsburgh would represent another opportunity to reset his NFL path. If he clears medical evaluation, he could find a stable environment to prove he belongs in the league despite the noise around him.