The Washington Commanders took a big gamble last offseason with defensive tackle Daron Payne. Instead of Washington speaking to the 2018 first-round pick about a contract extension, the Commanders appeared content letting Payne play out the final year of his contract.
That backfired. Well, not according to head coach Ron Rivera, who said Payne used it as motivation to make Washington pay. Ultimately, it was a good thing for Payne and the Commanders.
Washington wants Payne back. Payne enjoyed a career year in 2022, setting career highs in tackles for loss [18] and sacks [11.5]. Those are some impressive numbers from an interior defensive lineman. Payne, though, knows he’s due for a big raise. And he wants what he’s earned.
Last offseason, wide receivers reset the market at their position. This offseason, it could be the defensive tackles. Javon Hargrave is the other big free-agent defensive tackle. However, other defensive tackles are watching, such as Chris Jones [Chiefs] and Jeffery Simmons [Titans]. The more Payne makes, the more they’ll make on their next contracts.
So, what could a new contract for Payne look like this offseason? Using Spotrac’s calculated market value, Payne is projected to earn a contract with an AAV [average annual value] of $19.4 million. Overall, the projection has him earning a five-year contract worth $97.5 million.
With Washington planning on starting second-year passer Sam Howell at quarterback, the Commanders will have more money to use at other positions, including re-signing Payne. While the Commanders have reached out to Payne’s representatives, official contract talks haven’t begun, according to John Keim of ESPN.
If the Commanders and Payne can’t agree to a new contract over the next month, the franchise tag looks like a likely outcome for this situation in 2023. Payne would earn over $18 million on the one-year franchise tag next season if the two sides can’t reach a long-term agreement.
Either way, it’s a good time to be Daron Payne.