How the Washington Football Team can leverage a strength for its QB

So who would the Washington Football Team be the most likely to trade out of the four interior defensive linemen? Jonathan Allen is one of the coaching staff’s favorites. He is a leader and, as of now, the team’s best overall defensive linemen. And he is in the last year of his contract, so I doubt he gets moved.

Tim Settle is a solid rotational interior lineman but is not a high-end starter. I doubt he warrants any interest in a trade-up in the first round. Not to mention he is also entering the last year of his contract. Matt Ioannidis is the best pass rusher of the bunch, and unlike the previous two, he has two years left on his contract. However, he is coming off an injury and is a fairly one-dimensional player, not providing much in run defense. Teams may be more likely to take Christian Barmore, than trade for Matt Ioannidis.

That leaves Daron Payne. In my estimation, he is the most likely of the four to be moved. He would be the most enticing to other teams. He is still only 23 years old, has two years left on his rookie contract, and is already an elite run defender. His athleticism also gives him some upside as a pass rusher.

If the Washington Football Team decided now was the best time to use a piece on its defensive front to go get its quarterback or another elite talent, then Daron Payne is the most likely option to be moved. If a quarterback falls to Detroit at pick No. 7, that could be a spot where the Washington Football Team considers using its leverage to their advantage.

The Lions seem to be committed to a rebuild. Acquiring more picks could help them in the future, as they most likely do not expect to be very competitive this year. They also need help on the interior of their defensive line and drafting Barmore at No. 7 may be too rich for them. Insert an extra first, and a good culture fit like a Daron Payne.

There are other places where the Washington Football Team could trade up as well. Trading up with the Bengals at No. 5 could be an option as they need help on the interior of their defensive line.

Given Washington’s position at No. 19, if they find a quarterback that they like who continues to fall, including one of their defensive tackles may sweeten the pot just enough. Losing a great player like Payne would be a tough pill to swallow. However, if it allows them to get the quarterback of the future, it is something Washington should seriously consider.

If Washington wants to get the quarterback of the future in 2021, they should consider leveraging their biggest position of strength: The interior defensive line.