"According to an insider report, the Washington Commanders are discussing the prospect of defensive tackle Daron Payne playing out the final year of his deal without an extension or restructure. If accurate, he will undoubtedly be the highest salary-cap hit on the team once again in 2026. Some fans believe this relationship has run its course. Others think that Payne should be extended as the team's best interior lineman."
"You can't convince me that he is worth paying $28 million for a football season, and I like him. I am a Daron Payne guy. I actually think he's their best defensive player, and I don't think it's even particularly close. If you were to release him going into this year, you can save yourself almost $17 million in cap space. That could be a starting defensive tackle who's really good on the market. That's more money than you gave Javon Kinlaw. You could also just use that on several starters over a few different positions."
The Washington Commanders are weighing letting Daron Payne play out his final contract year without an extension or restructure. Remaining on the roster would make Payne the largest salary-cap hit for the team in 2026. Opinions split between fans and analysts over whether the relationship should end or whether Payne should be extended as the best interior lineman. New defensive coordinator Daronte Jones' scheme in 2026 will be a key test of Payne's production. Failure to improve could yield roughly $28 million next year or about $17 million in immediate cap savings to address roster needs.
Read at Riggo's Rag
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