3 Commanders who could get paid next after Daron Payne deal

Montez Sweat – Commanders DE

Paying top dollar to Daron Payne and Jonathan Allen solidifies the defensive line interior for years to come. Something that won’t have gone unnoticed by Montez Sweat as the edge rusher gets set to enter a contract year.

Sweat has been a consistent performer from the moment he was drafted No. 26 overall by the Washington Commanders in 2019. He’s accumulated 29 sacks over his first four years and although the team picked up his fifth-year option, no new contract appears on the immediate horizon despite his outstanding production.

This is similar to Payne’s situation, to a certain extent. If the Commanders let things play out and Sweat dominates in 2023, then it will cost them a substantial amount to keep him around long-term.

Giving the former Mississippi State stud a deserved deal before competitive action arrives in 2023 provides financial security and could be a cheaper alternative for the Commanders. However, they have a lot invested in their defensive line already, so it’ll be interesting to see what conclusion those in power come to where Sweat is concerned.

Consistent pass-rushers don’t grow on trees and the Commaners also have a potential draft bust on their hands if Chase Young endures more injury struggles next season. Therefore, keeping Sweat around is absolutely imperative.