Heading into the 2023 season, the Washington Commanders had two of the NFL’s top defensive tackles and arguably the league’s top combo. Jonathan Allen and Daron Payne were coming off Pro Bowl seasons, and the Commanders rewarded Payne with a four-year extension that made him the NFL’s second-highest-paid defensive tackle at the time.
Unfortunately, the 2023 season didn’t go as anyone envisioned, especially the defense. The Commanders were expected to field one of the NFL’s better defenses, but they were dreadful. Washington finished dead last in multiple statistical categories.
Everyone on the Commanders defense struggled last season, including Payne and Allen. The good news for Washington’s high-priced interior duo is new coach Dan Quinn is excited about coaching them. The players are excited to play under Quinn, too.
What is the leaguewide perception of Washington’s defensive tackles after last season?
ESPN recently ranked the top 10 defensive tackles in the NFL. To arrive at their rankings, ESPN surveyed a combination of coaches, executives and scouts from around the NFL. Allen and Payne both fell short of the top 10.
Allen and Payne were among six defensive tackles ranked in the “honorable mention” category.
Here’s what ESPN had to say about Allen:
Probably had a down year vs. the run but was on a terrible team, and he’s got legit pass-rush skills compared to many others on the list. Still has some prime years left. — NFL scouting director
There’s a reason the Commanders didn’t trade Allen. He has two years remaining on his contract and can still play.
Here’s what ESPN said about Payne:
Excellent run player. Strong and powerful with instincts. Good power rusher, especially in one-on-one situations. — NFL personnel director
You can see why Quinn and defensive coordinator Joe Whitt Jr. wanted to coach Allen and Payne. While the coaches must figure out the rest of the defense, having Allen and Payne in the middle is a fantastic place to start.