Amon-Ra St. Brown Appears to Punch Daron Payne in IG Video Shared by Commanders DT

Washington Commanders defensive tackle Daron Payne is set to serve a one-game suspension after punching Detroit Lions wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown during Sunday's matchup.

But Payne's actions may have been retaliatory. On Tuesday, Payne shared a video on Instagram of St. Brown appearing to punch him before throwing his own punch.

St. Brown admitted to antagonizing Payne a bit, though he didn't say that he hit him first.

"Two plays before that we got into a little scuffle, back and forth," St. Brown told reporters. "Then we end up scoring and I go up to him. I say a little something, nothing crazy, and then he decides to swing on me."

After the game, Commanders defensive tackle Javon Kinlaw came to the defense of his teammate.

"Yeah for sure, and they (saw it), too," Kinlaw said of the refs. "It's some bulls--t. 100 percent. Daron retaliated. The refs literally saw the first punch. I don't blame him for the way he reacted. Tempers got to flaring."

While the apparent punch from St. Brown doesn't excuse Payne's actions, it does add some context to the situation.

Payne appealed his suspension, but it was upheld on Monday by hearing officer Ramon Foster. He'll have to miss Washington's Week 11 matchup against the Miami Dolphins in Spain this week.

Payne's absence just adds to what has been a rough few weeks for the Commanders. Washington started the season with high hopes after reaching the NFC Championship game a season ago, but now even making the playoffs is out of reach.

Washington dropped to 3-7 with the blowout loss to the Lions on Sunday.

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Injuries have been one of the main issues, as quarterback Jayden Daniels has played just six games and is now out with a dislocated elbow, and star receiver Terry McLaurin has played just four games because of a quad injury.

In a mostly ugly season, Payne has been one of the only bright spots for the Commanders. He's logged 30 tackles, five passes defended and a sack, and his absence will be felt this week.

Washington ranks 30th in yards allowed per game (394.6) and 29th in points allowed per game (28). Things will only be more difficult without Payne on the field.