Daron Payne
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Daron Payne dominated Giants offensive line in Week 1
Daron Payne entered his eighth season with two competing narratives.
On one side, Bleacher Report placed him on its “All-Overpaid Team” before Week 1. The outlet pointed to a four-year, $90 million deal with $59 million guaranteed, his failure to surpass five sacks in six of his seven seasons, and last year’s poor Pro Football Focus grades. “He wasn’t the same before [2022] and hasn’t been the same since,” B/R wrote, questioning whether the Washington Commanders were getting their money’s worth.
Inside Washington’s building, the tone was far different.
Payne Steps Into Leadership
Two years ago, Washington moved on from Chase Young. Montez Sweat soon went to the Chicago Bears, and this past offseason Jonathan Allen signed with the Minnesota Vikings. Payne suddenly became the defensive line’s veteran anchor and one of the longest tenured members of the Burgundy and Gold. Coaches pushed him to lead, and according to Commanders.com, he answered.
Head coach Dan Quinn told Payne during camp that he’d had “a remarkable offseason,” highlighting his conditioning and focus. Defensive coordinator Joe Whitt Jr. praised his effort, saying Payne “looks intentful” and sets the tone by practicing at full speed.
Payne may not be the loudest voice in the room, but his example has carried weight. Younger players see how he approaches meetings, walkthroughs, and reps, and that influence matters on a defense looking to reset its identity.
Week 1 Response
In Washington’s 21–6 win over the New York Giants, Payne delivered one of his best outings. He recorded four tackles, 1.5 sacks, two pass breakups, and two assisted tackles. From collapsing the pocket on Russell Wilson to batting down passes at the line, Payne wrecked New York’s game plan.
The Giants managed only 231 total yards, and Payne was a big reason why. His constant pressure forced Wilson into rushed throws, and his disruption inside helped Washington control the line of scrimmage.
“I’m having fun, man, I think it shows by the way I’m playing,” Payne told Alex Flum of DC News Now after the win.
The performance felt like 2022 all over again. That season, Payne tied the franchise record for sacks by a defensive tackle with 11.5, earned a Pro Bowl nod, and cashed in with his extension.
Shifting the Narrative
Payne’s production declined in 2023 and 2024, which contributed to the “overpaid” label. But Week 1 showed he still has the ability to take over games. His strong offseason and dominant opener suggest he’s ready to reestablish himself as one of the league’s top interior defenders.
That’s exactly what Dan Quinn’s defense needs. Washington wants to build its identity on toughness and physicality. Recent additions, such as Javon Kinlaw, Von Miller, and Eddie Goldman, reinforce that vision. Payne’s ability to draw double teams and still produce creates ripple effects for everyone around him.
Bleacher Report questioned whether Payne was worth his contract. His Week 1 performance sent the perfect rebuttal. Washington asked him to lead, and he delivered both in the offseason and on the field.
For at least one week, Daron Payne looked like a man worth every penny.