Daron Payne and Jonathan Allen, former Alabama teammates, got into a dispute on Sunday. The fight started after Allen and Payne became frustrated with their performance against Dallas Cowboys in the first quarter. cameras captured the moment Allen hit his long-time teammate.
Both linemen played for Alabama and were on the same team for two seasons in 2015. Their closeness may have contributed to Sunday’s temper flare-up. Payne touched Allen’s head while he was reviewing the previous drive from the sideline. Allen was pushed to throw a punch by the contact and had to be separated from Payne by his teammates.
Jonathan Allen and Daron Payne don't seem to be getting along too well on the sidelines.#NFL | #WFTvsDAL pic.twitter.com/lzh9KRWN1d
— Pro Football Network (@PFN365) December 27, 2021
Despite the tempers continuing to flare following the incident, both players returned together on the field for the next defensive drive.
Between their professional and college careers, Allen and Payne were not apart for very long. Allen was the 17th overall selection in the 2017 NFL Draft. Washington took another first-round selection on an Alabama defensive player and selected Payne as the 13th overall draft in 2018.
On Sunday, frustration was a big part of Washington’s sideline as the Cowboys opened their game with a flurry of points. Washington scored a touchdown to make it 21-7 after scoring 21 points in quarter one. The Cowboys scored more points, and led 42-7 at halftime.
Five Cowboys scored touchdowns during the first half: Terence Steele and defensive lineman DeMarcus Larry.
Washington’s playoff hopes would be ended if they lose. The early deficit certainly contributed to Allen’s and Payne’s spat. Dallas entered the game already holding the NFC East title, but they are still fighting for higher seeding as the playoffs near.