What realistic scenarios could emerge now that the Washington Commanders have placed the franchise tag on defensive tackle Daron Payne?
In a move that was expected by many, the Washington Commanders formally placed the franchise tag on Daron Payne in the early hours of Tuesday morning. Something that ensures he won’t be hitting the free-agent market this spring.
Payne took a significant leap forward in 2022 en route to 11.5 sacks and his first Pro Bowl selection. This is obviously going to see additional dollars go onto his contract demands, but the tag allows those in power a little extra time to work on a potential extension if some common ground can be reached.
Letting Payne walk for nothing wasn’t ever going to happen. But what comes next between the former first-round pick and the franchise is still to be determined.
With this in mind, here are three realistic scenarios that could emerge now that the Commanders have the franchise tag on Payne.
Realistic Scenario No. 1
Commanders tie Daron Payne down long-term
Placing the franchise tag on Daron Payne does not mean a long-term agreement cannot be reached. It merely provides the Washington Commanders with additional breathing space to work something out with the one-time Alabama stud.
This is the best-case scenario, especially if last season’s production was a sign of things to come for Payne. A player that would have been highly coveted on the free-agent market before the Commanders took the necessary steps.
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.
Commanders tag and trade Daron Payne
This is the most drastic measure on the list. But one that warrants consideration nonetheless.
If the Washington Commanders get word from Daron Payne’s representatives that he won’t play on the franchise tag and the team cannot reach an agreement regarding a long-term deal, trading the defensive lineman becomes more realistic. Even if that represents a last resort.
As stated previously, Payne would have been a hot commodity in free agency. So if the Commanders did put feelers out that he could be traded at the right price, there should be plenty of interest considering his recent upward trajectory.
This would allow the Commanders to acquire additional draft capital to reinforce other areas. In turn, Payne’s departure could allow Phidarian Mathis a chance to showcase his skills after the second-round pick’s rookie campaign ended abruptly due to injury.
Again, if the Commanders could avoid this from coming to fruition, it would greatly help their cause. However, until both sides come to an agreement on a new contract, trading the player remains on the table.
It’s a fluid situation and the Commanders do have the spare resources beyond 2023 to get a deal done. So hopes are high that Payne can become a key component to any future success.