The Washington Commanders have made a definitive decision regarding their star defensive tackle, Daron Payne. As Payne enters his ninth NFL season in 2026, he remains a pivotal figure on the team, especially with this being the final year of his contract. Despite the hefty $28 million cap hit he's set to carry, the Commanders have opted to keep him on board, dismissing any rumors of a departure.
General Manager Adam Peters put the speculation to rest at the NFL combine in Indianapolis, confirming that Payne will stay with the team for the upcoming season without an extension-at least for now. Peters emphasized Payne's value, praising his toughness, leadership, and reliability on the field. "We’re really excited to have Daron with us next year," Peters stated, highlighting Payne's potential to thrive under the new defensive scheme.
Payne's performance history certainly supports the decision. Back in 2022, during his contract year, he delivered a standout season with career highs: 64 tackles, 20 tackles for loss, 11.5 sacks, and 20 quarterback hits. Since then, he has continued to be a force, accumulating 11 sacks and 25 tackles for loss over the past three seasons.
The arrival of new defensive coordinator Daronte Jones, who brings experience from Minnesota under Brian Flores, adds another layer of intrigue. While Jones hasn't detailed his defensive plans, it's expected that Payne will benefit from a more versatile defensive setup, allowing him to leverage his skills across multiple fronts.
For the Commanders, retaining Payne is not just about maintaining continuity but also about capitalizing on his proven ability to disrupt opposing offenses. As the 2026 season approaches, all eyes will be on Payne to see how he adapts and excels in this evolving defensive landscape.