In the latest Washington Commanders rumors, the team will allow its star defensive tackle, Daron Payne, to play out the final year of his current deal. Payne, a former first-round pick, has spent his entire career with the team and has been paired with former stars Chase Young and Jonathan Allen earlier in the league. Unfortunately, the team fired their entire staff, including defensive coordinator Joe Whitt, after a disastrous first season leading the unit. While he carries a huge cap hit to the team’s salary, the Commanders will remain patient to see how he fits into the new scheme.
Washington hasn’t signed any major possible replacement for Payne, but it’s always a possibility if he struggles during the 2026 season. Last year, the Commanders had one of the worst seasons defensively, including their defensive tackle being unable to stay out of trouble on the field. Known for his punch to Detroit Lions WR Amon-Ra St. Brown, it’s worth noting that could be another reason why the organization is hesistant of extending the veteran. Still, the DT recorded somewhat of a decent 2025 season, recording three sacks, 46 total tackles (20 solo), and five passes defended.
Commanders Rumors: 4 Top Free Agency Fits for $90M Star
Defense Improved Massively
The good news for the Commanders is that they’ve done all the right things this offseason to upgrade their pass-rush. The team signed Leo Chenal and Odafe Oweh to long-term deals while bringing in Sonny Styles in the first round of this year’s draft. This also means that Frankie Luvu is likely on his way out, but it proves that they’re staying away from their old defensive ways.
Even if Payne does average on the field, he might not make the roster next year. If the Commanders have another losing season, they could be open to moving the veteran before the trade deadline.
Any Hope for the Veteran?
Unfortunately for Payne, the best decision he could make for his career is to make an impressive name for himself for free agency. This means putting decent numbers will probably earn him a two-year contract minimum for a top contender. He may no longer be an adequate starter anymore, but he does have plenty of experience and likely needs a scenery change anyway. Given his past on-field issues, here are four teams that could pursue him in 2027.
Potential Next Spots
Los Angeles Chargers
After losing Otito Ogbonnia to the Dallas Cowboys this free agency, the team signed Dalvin Tomlinson for depth, but there’s still a need for a defense that’s hanging on a thread. It’s been a disappointing offseason for this defense, and the Chargers must do something to prove that they want to win football matchups with a physical pass-rush. While it’s great that they brought back Khalil Mack, they’ve only drafted Akheem Mesidor to bring in some youth to this unit.
However, it’s time to build a powerhouse. Payne won’t be Maxx Crosby if he signs with the Chargers, but he’d at least have a much more prominent role.
Jacksonville Jaguars
Meanwhile, the expectation is that the Jaguars will cut Arik Armstead to overhaul their defensive line. After letting Devin Lloyd walk in free agency, the team retained Travon Walker and Josh Hines-Allen. They’re one explosive playmaker away from completing the unit. Payne might not have much to offer, but at least he’d be more youthful than Armstead.
Carolina Panthers
As for Carolina, this is a team that hasn’t been afraid of upgrading their defense to create more opportunities for QB Bryce Young. The Panthers signed Devin Lloyd and Jaelan Phillips to reconstruct their pass-rush, but they need a new defensive tackle. Tershawn Wharton is back, but he could still be shaken up from a major injury, and someone like Payne can help.
Detroit Lions
With DJ Reader gone, the Detroit Lions have a major need for a defensive tackle. While they signed DJ Wonnum, it helps Aidan Hutchinson, but they need someone to step up in the middle. Payne could be the final puzzle piece and maybe rewrite history.
