Daron Payne Signs $90 Million Deal with Washington Commanders: What Led to His Decision?
Defensive tackle Daron Payne has inked a four-year, $90 million contract with the Washington Commanders in the NFL free agency. The deal has made him one of the highest-paid players in his position. However, the 25-year-old says the money wasn’t the only factor that convinced him to commit his long-term future to the Commanders. According to Ralph Vacchiano of Fox Sports, Payne said, “We’re one little piece away from being good.”
The Commanders prevented Payne from becoming an outright free agent by using the franchise tag on him. Instead of accepting a one-year salary of just under $19 million, Payne signed a contract that keeps him in Washington through the 2026 season.
What “Little Piece” Could Payne be Referring to?
It’s unclear what Payne meant by that “little piece” he referred to. Perhaps he could be alluding to a quarterback, where the Commanders do not have an established winner. Although Commanders head coach Ron Rivera suggested Sam Howell could be the starting quarterback, he only threw for 169 yards in his rookie start.
Alternatively, the team could pursue Lamar Jackson in the NFL free agency, but it would cost them two first-round picks if the Baltimore Ravens do not match the offer.
Can the Commanders make it to the playoffs?
The Commanders were the only NFC East team that didn’t make the playoffs last season. However, with an 8-8-1 record, they were only one game behind the No. 6 seed New York Giants. In three straight seasons, Washington has won seven or eight games.
Payne’s re-signing, along with other key additions in free agency, could help the team reach the playoffs for the first time since 2015.
How important is Daron Payne to the Commanders’ defense?
With Payne’s help, the Commanders had the third-best defense in the league last season. Payne had 11.5 sacks, 64 tackles, 18 tackles for loss, and five pass deflections. Payne’s presence on the defensive line is a significant factor in the team’s success, and his re-signing is a crucial move for the Commanders.
Daron Payne’s decision to re-sign with the Washington Commanders for a four-year, $90 million contract is surely a significant move for the team. Payne’s contribution to the Commanders’ defense has been instrumental in their recent success. With the addition of a key player or two, the Commanders could finally make it to the playoffs after several years of falling short.
