3 overreactions to Commanders’ Week 12 win over the Falcons
By Jerry Trotta
2. Do whatever it takes to keep Daron Payne
Like every Commanders fan, we’ve been waxing poetic about Payne all season. If the campaign ended three weeks ago, Payne would’ve had a career year. Somehow, that doesn’t even contextualize the year he’s putting together.
Though quiet for most of Sunday’s win over Atlanta, Payne came through when it mattered most in the second half. No play was more important than his tipped pass on 2nd and 4 with the Falcons poised to score a go-ahead touchdown in the final minute. The batted ball landed right in the path of Kendall Fuller, who high-pointed the football to grab what proved to be the game-sealing interception.
Daron Payne with a huge tip at the line of scrimmage before Kendall Fuller makes the adjustment for a diving interception to win the game for the #Commanders pic.twitter.com/6PDE2mXgz7
— Mark Bullock (@MarkBullockNFL) November 27, 2022
If you opened Twitter after the turnover, fans had a clear message for the Commanders: pay Payne by any means necessary. While an overreaction to the game-winning play, it’s absolutely warranted given how he’s performed.
Through 12 games, the former first round pick’s already notched career-highs in tackles for loss, sacks, and passes defended. He’s also just one quarterback hit away from setting his personal best in that department.
Forget thinking rationally. Do whatever it takes to keep Payne. The Commanders’ biggest strength all year has been their defensive line. Don’t be foolish and trick yourself into thinking a combination of John Ridgeway and Phidarian Mathis can replicate what Payne does in the trenches.
Pay the man! Worry about the rest later.