The Washington Commanders and defensive tackle Daron Payne have agreed to a four-year deal worth $90 million. This new deal includes $60 million in guaranteed money for the defensive tackle. He was originally franchise tagged by the team while the two sides continued to work toward a long-term deal. This news deal makes Payne the second-highest-paid defensive tackle in the NFL. With two other major decisions on the defensive line coming up in the next year or two, Washington will be glad to have Payne secured long-term while they work on rebuilding their lackluster offense.
Sources: Washington’s franchise player Daron Payne became the highest-paid DT in NFL history not named Aaron Donald, reaching agreement today on a four-year, $90 million deal that includes $60 million guaranteed. pic.twitter.com/ZJsM2xnaSp
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 12, 2023
This season with the Washington Commanders, Daron Payne recorded 32 solo tackles, 64 total tackles, 11.5 sacks, five passes defended, and one forced fumble. Payne has certainly earned the money he just made and has a reputation as one of the better defensive tackles in the NFL. The Commanders have a good defensive unit and a top defensive line but have failed to find consistency on the other side of the ball. Washington will need to invest in that side of the ball in the next few years if they hope to capitalize on their solid defense in the NFC East.
