The Washington Commanders have placed the franchise tag on defensive tackle Daron Payne on Tuesday. This makes Payne the first player to be franchise tagged during this offseason. Washington now has until July 17th to reach a long-term deal with the rising star and defensive tackle. This tag is non-exclusive so other teams may speak to Payne in the offseason. If Payne plays under the franchise tag this upcoming season then he will make $18.937 million. The Washington Commanders and Payne have been working on a long-term deal for some time and are expected to reach a deal before the deadline.
Washington DT Daron Payne became the first player this off-season to receive the franchise tag, per sources. The franchise tag for Payne is projected to be $18.937 million. Washington placed the tag on Payne early this morning. pic.twitter.com/cmbeaRciig
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) February 28, 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. Since the Commanders selected Payne with 13th overall pick in the 2018 NFL Draft he has risen up the ranks of the NFL and become one of the better defensive tackles in the league. Pressures from his position aren’t aways common, but Payne has excelled at that aspect of the game.
With defensive end Montez Sweat set to become a free agent next season and the team still undecided on defensive end Chase Young’s fifth year option, keeping Daron Payne is a priority. Rebuilding the team has been a process, but the defense has a promising core that could help them win more games when the offense looks better.
