Washington Football Team Studs or Duds: Daron Payne
By Nick Swanson
Will Daron Payne be a stud or a dud for the Washington Football Team in 2021?
The Washington Football Team is one team that everybody should be looking out for in 2021. Very young and very hungry, the defense alone makes them a legitimate playoff contender.
With several moves on offense happening during free agency and the NFL Draft, the team is much improved from the lineup they rolled out in the NFC Wild Card round.
While determining a “stud” or a “dud” for this season, it’s not a label of the player’s skill or ability. A “stud” is going to be a player who will most likely improve based on their previous season. A “dud” is a player that regresses or doesn’t see a significant jump in play or production.
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The highlight of this WFT team is the defensive line. One of the best — if not, the best — defensive lines in all of football resides in Landover. The youthfulness of the line also plays a big part in creating their championship window.
While Terry McLaurin is a great offensive piece, the team’s premiere players are on defense.
Daron Payne is one of the faces of the defense. He’s been one of the most underrated defensive players and an absolute force since he’s come into the NFL.
In his three seasons in Washington, Payne has recorded 166 total tackles, 20 quarterback hits, 16 tackles for loss, 10 sacks, four forced fumbles and even an interception.
Payne should be an absolute stud for the Football Team in 2021 as he is poised for a true breakout year. With the development he’s had over the past three seasons, along with the sheer amount of talent surrounding him, Payne will be a prominent presence in opposing backfields.
While his pass-rushing techniques could use some work, Payne is still able to shed blocks with ease and make plays downfield. He’ll be a face that opposing quarterbacks and running backs will see often.
Analyzing WFT's TEs and WRs for 2021. dark. Next
Payne could see himself being selected to his first Pro Bowl in 2021 as he helps lead the team back to the playoffs.