Tensions Escalate During Packers-Seahawks Joint Practice: Punches Thrown and Players Ejected
In a highly charged joint practice session between the Green Bay Packers and the Seattle Seahawks on Thursday, tempers flared as punches were thrown, leading to the ejection of one player. Joint practices are known for their competitive nature, but this particular session witnessed a significant escalation, with ESPN reporting that "roughly a dozen" scuffles broke out, some devolving into full-on fights.
Packers right tackle Zack Tom was the player ejected after he threw punches at Seahawks linebacker Ernest Jones IV and cornerback Devon Witherspoon. The intensity of the practice caught the attention of Packers quarterback Jordan Love, who remarked that it was one of the most physical encounters he’s experienced since joining the league. "When you see both sidelines clear, it’s tough," Love said, according to ESPN. "You try your best to break it up, but it’s going to happen."
Tom recounted the events leading up to his dismissal, explaining that Jones had intruded into the Packers’ huddle and targeted a teammate following a verbal exchange on the previous play. "It’s disrespectful that they’re in our huddle," Tom stated. Despite acknowledging that he could have exercised better control, he emphasized the need to protect his team’s pride. "I can only control what I can control," he added.
The altercations continued even after Tom’s departure. During drills, an unnamed Packers player took a swing at Seahawks guard Anthony Bradford, resulting in multiple skirmishes during both 11-on-11 and 7-on-7 drills. As the practice approached its conclusion, tensions flared once more, with players from both sides exchanging words in the middle of the field.
Seahawks lineman Leonard Williams voiced his frustration over the situation, stating, "I didn’t appreciate them coming to our sideline after practice was over. It’s tough with joint practices because these things happen. We try to avoid it, but it’s part of the game."
As teams prepare for the final week of preseason before roster cuts, the competitive atmosphere can often lead to heated moments. Both coaches and players recognize the need to balance intensity with control. Seahawks head coach Mike Macdonald commented, "You want your guys to defend their teammates. There’s a line, and I don’t think we crossed it, which is good."
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Scott Thompson is a sports writer for Fox News Digital.
