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3 noteworthy takeaways from Commanders minicamp media day

By Jerry Trotta

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - DECEMBER 05: Defensive coordinator Jack Del Rio of the Washington Football Team looks on during the second half of a game against the Las Vegas Raiders at Allegiant Stadium on December 05, 2021 in Las Vegas, Nevada. The Washington Football Team defeated the Raiders 17-15. (Photo by Chris Unger/Getty Images)
LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - DECEMBER 05: Defensive coordinator Jack Del Rio of the Washington Football Team looks on during the second half of a game against the Las Vegas Raiders at Allegiant Stadium on December 05, 2021 in Las Vegas, Nevada. The Washington Football Team defeated the Raiders 17-15. (Photo by Chris Unger/Getty Images) /
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(Photo by Scott Taetsch/Getty Images)
(Photo by Scott Taetsch/Getty Images) /

2. Daron Payne Not Worried About Contract

Terry McLaurin’s holdout has largely overshadowed the fact that Payne was a part-time participant at OTAs. Of course, those are voluntary practices and all reports hinted that the standout DT engaged in individual drills before sitting out of team drills and hitting the weight room before team meetings.

After Ron Rivera expressed interest in extending Payne before the Combine, the Commanders’ plans changed and all signs point to Payne fulfilling his fifth-year option, which will pay him $8.529 million, before hitting free agency.

It’s an awkward situation for Payne, who’s more than earned an extension but is unfortunately part of a stacked defensive line that already saw his running mate, Jonathan Allen, receive a $72 million contract last offseason.

Despite being stuck in limbo, Payne isn’t worried about his contract … or potentially being replaced by rookie Phidarian Mathis, saying negotiations are “between my coach, my agent and me,” following Tuesday’s minicamp practice.

"“I just like training, I like being around the guys, I like just fellowshipping,” Payne said of being a full-participant at minicamp. “It was fun for me to be here and get some work in…it felt good being out there with the team, with the guys. Just going hard with them, ready for the season, ready to get back out there.”"

Hard to conduct yourself better than Payne has.

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