3 realistic scenarios after Commanders franchise tag Daron Payne

Commanders let Daron Payne play on the franchise tag

If terms on a new deal cannot be reached between Daron Payne and the Washington Commanders before the deadline, then letting him play on the franchise tag is another realistic scenario that might emerge.

Players are becoming increasingly unwilling to play on the tag. They want financial security long-term and considering the violent nature of NFL play on almost every down, one injury could jeopardize this in a big way.

This is something Payne will no doubt contemplate before deciding one way or another. Getting $18.93 million next season is a bumper pay increase, even if it would only be in the short term before things come to a head once again in 2024.

It isn’t ideal, especially considering the recent franchise tag situations involving the Commanders. But it’s a means to an end and at least keeps the player around for what will hopefully be another profitable campaign next time around.

Payne progressed enough last season to suggest it could be the start of great things to come. But there’s just no telling what the Commanders would need to shell out to keep him around next year if they cannot agree to a long-term deal this offseason.