by The Packers had a chance to secure last spot in the NFC playoffs but fell short, losing 20-16 to NFC North rivals Detroit at Lambeau Field on Sunday. The loss was bad enough, but the way they accepted that loss will be remembered for a long time.
Packers rookie linebacker Quay Walker led 16-13 and 7:24 in the game and shoved a Lions coach who was on the field tending injured RB D’Andre Swift. The move resulted in Walker’s ejection – the second time this season the rookie was thrown out of a game – and the penalty kick put the Lions from the 5-yard line to first and goal. Three plays later, RB Jamaal Williams struck from a yard to give the Lions the final lead of the game.
Packers coach Matt LaFleur spoke about the incident after the game and didn’t mince words about Walker’s behavior.
“I demand a lot more from our players than to do something stupid like that,” LaFleuer said. “We were kicked out twice. I don’t think I’ve ever seen that in my career. I take that very personally. It’s unacceptable.”
Walker, the Georgia team’s first-round draft pick (No. 22 overall), finished the season with 121 total tackles, forcing three fumbles and adding 1.5 sacks. A prolific player with a first-round pedigree probably won’t find himself on waivers, but it’s reasonable to assume Walker is now firmly entrenched in LaFleur’s kennel.
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