After making several blockbuster signings in this year’s free agency, the Washington Commanders could trade defensive tackle Daron Payne. It’s reported that the team does not plan to extend Payne at least until the 2026 regular season is over. On paper, it makes sense why the Commanders are waiting, as the team wants to explore if Payne improves his play. However, the veteran is in the last year of his current $90 million contract, which will expire next March.
Selected as a first-round pick, the former Alabama product is coming off his worst season. Payne recorded just 20 solo tackles and three sacks, which aren’t ideal numbers if you’re looking for an extension. The veteran has already been put on notice after the team re-signed DT Tim Settle while adding Leo Chenal and Odafe Oweh on monster deals. The Commanders are trying to strengthen their roster for a Super Bowl run under Jayden Daniels before he’s eligible for an extension.
However, it will probably come at the expense of Payne. If he doesn’t improve, it wouldn’t be surprising to see his exit before the trade deadline this season.
Breaking: Commanders “Will Not” Extend Former Pro Bowler Daron Payne, Likely Lead to Trade
Although when players are put on the hot seat, Payne could improve, but that doesn’t always guarantee a new extension. If the Commanders wanted Payne for another several seasons, they would’ve extended him by now. The team released Jonathan Allen, Montez Sweat and Chase Young, who were a part of the regime that Payne was in. With a new team taking shape, it tells you that Payne could be in a new uniform by 2027.
With every team always looking to brush up on their defenses, here are three potential teams that could target Payne.
Possible Destinations
Dallas Cowboys
After trading Osa Odighizuwa and Solomon Thomas, it would make sense for Dallas to acquire Payne, but the Commanders won’t trade him to their rival. If Payne becomes a free agent after the 2026 season, and depending on what type of season he has that year, the Cowboys should target him. Seasons ago, Commanders’ head coach Dan Quinn left Dallas and brought in some of the former Cowboys players, such as Dorance Armstrong.
Why not Dallas do the same in some form? Payne isn’t the long-term fit, but he serves as a reliable veteran presence for a defense that still needs an edge rusher and cornerback. However, it would still be a head scratcher if Dallas doesn’t acquire another DT before the season starts.
Carolina Panthers
Meanwhile, the Panthers are strengthening their championship window for a potential run, signing Jaelan Phillips to a monster contract. Last offseason, the team signed Tershawn Wharton and Tre’Von Moehrig to bolster the defense while still having Derrick Brown in the same unit. Payne might be the perfect fit alongside Wharton to create one of the most explosive run-stuffers in the NFC.
Kansas City Chiefs
However, the Chiefs lost several free agents, including Jerry Tillery and Mike Danna. Kansas City just needs depth, but it wouldn’t be a bad idea for the team to sneak Payne in to join alongside Chris Jones. The secondary might need some work for a few seasons, but imagine Payne and Jones pairing in Kansas City; it could be a nightmare.