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Last year, WB Games Montreal worked on Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League, a game following the titular team of anti-heroes. However, critics and gamers alike widely panned the game for its live-service features and poor design. Due to its poor sales, the developer became the latest of many to be hit with a huge wave of layoffs.
With the rest of Warner Bros facing many commercial struggles, this studio’s downfall has been caught in the crossfire. Here is a breakdown of WB Games Montreal’s layoffs.
WB Games Montreal’s Layoffs
According to GameRant, WB Games Montreal has become the latest game studio to lay off a huge workforce. This time around, about 99 employees were laid off. Most of those within their ranks were from the quality control department for their recent game Suicide Squad: Kill the Justice League. This news comes mere months after the larger developer of KTJL, Rocksteady Studios, became another victim of mass layoffs.
The game was a critical and commercial failure due to its repetitive gameplay and overuse of widely criticized live service elements. Therefore, its failure likely contributed to the corporate decision. The executives have not properly announced the change despite its magnitude. For reference, WB Games Montreal’s staff was around 350, meaning these layoffs were a particularly large blow that left the company’s future uncertain.
The Studio’s Work
WB Games Montreal is one of its parent company’s many subsidiaries worldwide. The team largely focused on creating games for Warner Bros’ DC Comics, such as Gotham Knights and Arkham Origins. While the latter was considered a solid entry in its series, many saw Gotham Knights as a weak Batman game. While not a universally acclaimed studio, seeing so many employees lost is still disappointing.
As a franchise, the Suicide Squad has seen many ups and downs. While their first film in the DC Extended Universe was one of the series’ most ridiculed films, James Gunn’s sequel was widely regarded as one of their best. However, their anime adaptation, Suicide Squad Isekai, got largely mediocre reviews. Kill the Justice League’s failure was another entry in this history. The fact that two studios could suffer from the game’s failure shows how much of a blunder it was.
The Layoff’s Scale
This massive layoff was just a drop in the bucket for those following the news. Since last year, hundreds of developers, AAA and indie alike, have faced massive layoffs totaling tens of thousands of workers. Generally, these were due to the enormous boost in sales from the 2020 lockdowns and the impulsive investments on the part of shareholders.
Beyond WB Games Montreal, the media giant Warner Brothers has faced several struggles. Many have criticized their handling of Cartoon Network, the DC Extended Universe, and the shelving of completed films like Batgirl and Coyote Vs. Acme. Their streaming service, MAX, has seen a huge section of its library slashed. Many of these blunders were blamed on its current CEO, David Zaslav, who was widely criticized.
Warner Bros. has also established itself as a gaming giant. In addition to their IPs, such as Harry Potter, DC, and Lord of the Rings, they own the nostalgic LEGO games and the Mortal Kombat franchise. Once again, seeing a titan like this one fall to the layoffs shows how all-encompassing their effect is on the entire industry.
Conclusion
While massive layoffs are hardly news nowadays in gaming, this particular story is part of a much larger development within Warner Bros. The poor sales and reception of Kill the Justice League had a massive hand in this choice, as it did with its collaborator Rocksteady Games.
With so many studios going under rapidly, the entire video game industry could face an uncertain future. Despite this, there is still a chance future developers will remember why their previous game failed and learn from its mistakes.
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Commanders' Terry McLaurin reportedly wants more money than previously thought
Previous reports indicated that unsettled Washington Commanders wide receiver Terry McLaurin was looking to land "parts" of the five-year, $150M contract that the Pittsburgh Steelers gave DK Metcalf earlier this year. For an article published on Wednesday morning, Nicki Jhabvala of The Athletic offered an update regarding why McLaurin and the Commanders haven't come to terms on an extension after the 29-year-old requested a trade on July 31. "One person with knowledge of McLaurin’s contract negotiations said the veteran receiver has asked for more than DK Metcalf," Jhabvala revealed. McLaurin is in the final year of his current deal and will turn 30 years old in September. To compare, Metcalf will turn 28 in December. That said, McLaurin emerged last season as the favorite target for quarterback Jayden Daniels as Daniels guided the Commanders to the NFC Championship Game. "McLaurin believes he’s one of the best receivers in the NFL," Jhabvala added. "He’s been the Commanders' leading receiver every season since he entered the league (in 2019), and last year had the second-most receiving TDs in the league behind Ja’Marr Chase’s 17. He also ranked third in (expected points added) on targets and seventh in catch rate among receivers with at least 100 targets last year, but among that same group, McLaurin’s total receiving yards (1,096) ranked 12th and his average yards after the catch ranked 25th." Daniels seemed optimistic while speaking about the ongoing contract standoff during the ESPN broadcast of Monday's preseason game between the Commanders and Cincinnati Bengals when he said he knew McLaurin would "be coming through the door soon." However, Jhabvala noted that "it wouldn’t be a surprise if the [Commanders have] set a maximum range of $27M to $28M a year in average annual value for McLaurin." That seems to suggest the two sides aren't all that close to coming to terms on an agreement. It's unclear if McLaurin is willing to forfeit money by sitting out Washington's Week 1 game against the New York Giants on Sept. 7 amid his desire for a pay raise. If he isn't, he may have to soon accept the offer that's on the table to guarantee himself future earnings beyond the upcoming season.
2 Ravens who could be trade chips as roster cuts approach
The NFL is nearing roster cutdown day, which will see many talented players hit the waiver wire. It also presents a key opportunity to make trades in the coming days, capitalizing on value from players who would have likely been cut. The Baltimore Ravens are one team expected to have a talented group of players get cut following their Week 3 game against the Washington Commanders. General Manager Eric DeCosta could have his hands full with trade offers. While the team hopes to keep many young players on the practice squad, that will ultimately not be the result for everyone. In those cases, the Ravens could opt to make one or two trades. Here are two players who could meet an end in Baltimore via trade. 2 Ravens trade candidates ahead of roster cutdown day Chandler Martin When it comes to linebackers this preseason, undrafted rookie Jay Higgins has taken up all the spotlight. He is making play after play, forcing turnovers, and showcasing elite instincts in the middle of the field. Trenton Simpson and Teddye Buchanan have also been focal points, as the Ravens are looking for a quality starting linebacker next to Roquan Smith. That has left Chandler Martin’s play unrecognized. Through two preseason games, Martin has been a top player on Baltimore’s defense. He kicked it off on the right foot, posting an 86.7 overall grade against the Indianapolis Colts in Week 1, per Pro Football Focus. In Week 2 against the Dallas Cowboys, he earned a strong 77.7 grade. Both performances were in the top five on defense. Unfortunately, there is no room for Martin. He is a player the Ravens would love to have on the practice squad, but he is likely sixth in line on the depth chart. With so much depth, he could be a trade candidate. The encouraging performances from the undrafted rookie out of Memphis could build a competitive market. Beau Brade Someone in the safety room is on their way out. There are three players vying for two spots, with all likely being too valuable to pass through waivers and be scooped back up on the practice squad. Between Reuben Lowery, Sanoussi Kane, and Beau Brade, Brade could be the most likely trade piece. Kane and Brade have produced nearly identically throughout camp and the preseason. The two have been impressing the coaching staff, but Kane seems to have a slight edge. He has gotten the starts over Brade in both preseason games, getting more snaps, as well. That could mean Brade is the odd man out, potentially putting him on the trade block. Brade offers the ability as a deep safety and can also play down in the box. While the NFL is finding increasingly more value in two-high safety looks, the running game is taking over, which could shift the focus to a versatile player like Brade. The Ravens could luck out and bring Martin and Brade back on the practice squad, but it is not guaranteed. If they fear they could lose players like those two for nothing, the front office could listen to trade offers. More Balti
4 winners (and 3 losers) from chaotic Commanders training camp
The Washington Commanders had momentum firmly on their side entering this summer's training camp after a remarkable 2024 campaign. It was an intense few weeks for all involved, even if it became more chaotic than usual for reasons outside of Dan Quinn's control. There were a lot of distractions. Quinn navigated them successfully enough, but it's clear that the strain had taken a toll on the head coach. One big cloud hung over the franchise throughout, and some concerning injury issues meant significant adjustments were needed to keep things ticking over. Although that raised doubts, there were some enormous positives to take from camp. The rookie class looked good, and some newly acquired veterans also made their presence felt. Washington's spirit and camaraderie remain extremely strong, which should help them cope with some stern upcoming challenges with a bigger target on their back. Some difficult decisions are upcoming for Quinn and general manager Adam Peters. Trimming the roster to 53 players is always one of the toughest parts of the NFL calendar. But whoever goes through onto the Commanders' squad will deserve their place after laying the right foundations at camp. With this in mind, here are four winners and three losers from Washington's training camp in 2025. Winners and losers from chaotic Commanders 2025 training camp Winner No. 1 Jacory Croskey-Merritt - Commanders RB It became hard to ignore the momentum building around Jacory Croskey-Merritt very early in the offseason. The seventh-round running back came into the Washington Commanders with lofty ambitions and a huge chip on his shoulder. His transition was seamless, which led to a seismic shift from general manager Adam Peters. The Commanders are looking to trade Brian Robinson Jr. If they cannot find a willing suitor, last year's starting backfield option will be released. This was somewhat surprising, but it's a testament to how well Croskey-Merritt and others have performed. Croskey-Merritt's roster spot is secure. That represents a significant achievement when one considers how much football he's missed over the last year. Tempering expectations initially would be wise, but there is nothing to suggest he cannot become a feature on offense as the season progresses. The former Arizona and New Mexico standout emerged as one of camp's most heart-warming stories. And the best part? Croskey-Merritt isn't satisfied, which is the right attitude to have as he looks to become one of the draft's great steals. It's still early days, but the hype train has already left the station where Croskey-Merritt is concerned. Long may it continue. Loser No. 1 Jordan Magee - Commanders LB Jordan Magee's offseason has followed a similar pattern to his first with the Washington Commanders. The athletic linebacker built some significant momentum over early workouts, with defensive coordinator Joe Whitt Jr. proclaiming his desire to get him more involved in the rotation. Unfortunately, this positivity was halted by injury once again. Magee missed a large portion of training camp due to an undisclosed issue. The Commanders were right to err on the side of caution with the player, but he's once again missed valuable reps both in practice and preseason games. Whether this alters the Commanders' strategy with Magee remains to be seen. Getting him back to 100 percent is the primary objective. After that, the coaching staff will probably bring him along gradually before his confidence increases. It's not ideal, but Magee needs to display the correct resolve. And when he gets the all clear to resume football activities, he's got to hit the ground running. Winner No. 2 Deebo Samuel Sr. - Commanders WR All eyes were on Deebo Samuel Sr. following his high-profile trade to the Commanders. Criticism was fierce and unfair around the wide receiver after the move became official, but the former second-round pick is well on his way to emphatically silencing doubters. Samuel showed up to camp in shape and fully focused. His speed and explosiveness were nothing short of outstanding. The wideout's chemistry with quarterback Jayden Daniels blossomed without Terry McLaurin. That's the biggest silver lining above all else regarding his holdout. After hearing all the hot takes and backlash, Samuel is letting his football do the talking. The South Carolina product is as advertised, and he'll be tasked with huge responsibilities from the moment he steps onto the field in a competitive setting. Judging by his camp showing, putting together a bounce-back campaign looks more than feasible. And if this scenario comes to fruition, sending a fifth-round pick to the San Francisco 49ers for Samuel will be a masterstroke. Loser No. 2 Luke McCaffrey - Commanders WR Hopes were high heading into the summer that Luke McCaffrey could finally break out and firmly establish himself as an important part of Washington's passing attack. There have been a few flashes once again, but the consistency remains subpar. McCaffrey was always going to be a work in progress. He converted to the wide receiver spot from quarterback in college, but his athleticism was enough for the Commanders to use the No. 100 overall selection in the 2024 NFL Draft to secure his services. The Rice product got plenty of reps but very few targets last season. McCaffrey needs to show more in Year 2, and concerns are starting to emerge about whether he'll be on the fringes once again. Deebo Samuel Sr. and Jaylin Lane moved ahead of McCaffrey in the pecking order. The fact that he was a non-factor in Washington's first two preseason games only raises more doubts around his outlook. Winner No. 3 Jayden Daniels - Commanders QB Jayden Daniels didn't get much work during the preseason. Everyone knows what the dynamic quarterback can do, which he put on full display throughout another impressive training camp. The Washington Commanders will be relying heavily upon Daniels once again in 2025. He's the franchise player. He's the relaxed, cold-blooded killer on the field who everyone willingly follows into battle. More importantly, his extra knowledge of the schematic concepts and overall confidence were notable. Daniels just looks like a superstar. The No. 2 overall selection in the 2025 NFL Draft didn't have some of his top playmakers for most (or all) of camp, but it didn't matter. He was his typical clinical self, challenging his teammates to be better and getting a positive response. The Commanders will only go as far as Daniels takes them next season. Judging by the way he performed and conducted himself over camp, another huge campaign is in the offing for one of the game's elite talents. Loser No. 3 Terry McLaurin - Commanders WR Training camp came and went without Terry McLaurin on the practice field. His contract standoff with the Commanders shows no signs of concluding successfully. And the situation is becoming increasingly demoralizing for all involved. McLaurin skipped the first few days of camp before returning, albeit on the physically unable to perform list. He's ramping up his recovery from a supposed hamstring issue, but the wideout's reported contract demands remain a major stumbling block. Fans are tired of this ongoing saga that's been a dark cloud hanging over training camp. Dan Quinn's frustrations were obvious in front of the media this week. There's nothing he can do; it's just a case of letting the business side play out before hopefully getting McLaurin back into the fold. Just when that'll be is anyone's guess. Both sides are dug in, so the next step for McLaurin would be sacrificing game checks. That's not going to happen. Winner No. 4 Trey Amos - Commanders CB The Commanders thought they had something special in rookie cornerback Trey Amos from early on. Adam Peters couldn't believe his luck when he was there for the taking at No. 61 overall in the 2025 NFL Draft. It's not hard to see why. Amos was projected as a first-round pick by most analysts, but a back issue during his pre-draft medical assessments saw the player's stock crash. The Commanders kept faith with the defensive back, and they must love what he's brought to the table so far. The former Ole Miss standout was exceptional in coverage throughout camp, immediately winning the starting boundary job opposite four-time Pro Bowl corner Marshon Lattimore. This is a lot to put on a rookie, but Amos looks more than ready for the moment. If the same trend continues into the regular season, Amos will quickly emerge as one of the draft's biggest steals. Something that will greatly benefit Washington's secondary along the way. More Commanders news and analysis
3 Chiefs sleepers who moved one step closer to a roster spot
With one more preseason game remaining on the Kansas City Chiefs' schedule, it's the last chance for some of the lesser-known names on the roster to show that they belong on the team in some capacity in 2025. The final preseason game will give those players extra time to show what they can do. These three players might not have been considered locks to make the Chiefs' 53-man roster entering the preseason, but after some solid performances so far, they could be successfully changing their narrative. Let's look at some Chiefs sleepers who look to have moved closer to landing on the 53-man roster. Robert Tonyan, TE Robert Tonyan went from a wild card to compete for a fringe tight end role. Now, he's pushing younger competitors down the Chiefs depth chart. The journeyman veteran joined the Chiefs last December as a practice squad player and then signed again in March to compete for a roster spot. With Travis Kelce and Noah Gray locks to make the roster, Tonyan knew his work was cut out for him, but he's delivered this summer with consistently strong practices and productive games. Tonyan has led the Chiefs in receiving yards in both of their preseason exhibitions so far. Against the Cardinals, he put up 3 catches for 49 yards. In the Chiefs' Week 2 loss to Seattle, Tonyan tallied five catches for 41 yards and a touchdown, proving that he can make some noise on offense. At this point, the Chiefs are going to have to keep four tight ends in order to secure Jared Wiley for the future, because Tonyan has made it clear he's an asset in the present. Tyquan Thornton, WR When it comes to the wide receiver position, five players are locks to make the team. That leaves either one or two spots, depending on how many WRs the Chiefs opt to roster. With Hollywood Brown's injury and everything going on with Rashee Rice, keeping seven receivers makes a lot of sense. If true, it bodes well for Tyquan Thornton, whom the Chiefs signed to their practice squad last November. Thornton, a former second-round pick by the Patriots in 2022, is hoping that a change of scenery can change his NFL narrative. While it's only the preseason, he's looked good as a Chief throughout games and training camp. Thornton might not have panned out in New England, but if he can create some chemistry with Patrick Mahomes, perhaps he can reinvent himself. Crazier things have certainly happened. Kevin Knowles, CB Kevin Knowles is the long shot of the bunch, but a case could be made for the rookie free agent corner to make the final roster. He's battling with Joshua Williams and others for the final cornerback spot right now, but he could provide the Chiefs with a cheaper option at the position. Unfortunately for Knowles, the Chiefs would probably have to trade Williams in order for him to make it onto the team. He's shown some potential this summer and tracks as a likely practice squad candidate. Something that could play out in Knowles' favor is the number of injuries that have hit the cornerback room. Obviously, Chiefs Kingdom doesn't want to see the team deal with those concerns, but that could help Knowles find his way onto the team.
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