Daron Payne - Commanders DT
The Washington Commanders parted ways with long-time veteran Jonathan Allen this offseason. It was always the most likely scenario once the production no longer matched the paycheck. As others surged, the defensive tackle lacked motivation after experiencing almost nothing but misery under the previous regime.
Allen was released after no willing trade suitor came forward, eventually signing for the Minnesota Vikings. Looking at how things have unfolded over the team's preparations for the new campaign, nobody stands to benefit more than Daron Payne.
Dan Quinn and others have lauded Payne for his improved focus and emerging leadership this offseason. He's eager to step out of Allen's shadow and spearhead Washington's defensive line. He's also taken it upon himself to get more vocal, which wasn't always his strength with an alpha already in the room.
There is a lot at stake for Payne in 2025. He's the team's biggest salary-cap hit at $26.17 million. If he wants to see out the final year of his deal in 2026, or potentially get another financial commitment from the Commanders, his consistency and game-wrecking credentials must return to the fore.
Anything less comes with grave consequences attached for Payne. But it's starting to look like a profitable campaign could be in the offing.
Deebo Samuel Sr. - Commanders WR
The San Francisco 49ers couldn't wait to get rid of wide receiver Deebo Samuel Sr. this offseason. Those in power decided that he was becoming a distraction, wasn't taking his football seriously, and was regressing from a production standpoint. The player agreed, declaring that a fresh start would be the best possible solution for all parties.
Just when it looked like the Niners might be forced to release Samuel, the Commanders sent a fifth-round pick to the NFC West club to secure his services. Adam Peters knows what the All-Pro can do when healthy and motivated, and it cost Washington almost nothing to see if there was still something left in the tank.
Samuel worked exceptionally hard over the offseason to get himself in shape. He was heavily criticized by analysts and former pros for his weight, which gave him some extra motivation to reignite the spark. He's been nothing short of sensational all summer, so the Commanders stand to benefit greatly if this continues into the regular season.
The South Carolina product has a lot on the line. This is a contract year for Samuel. It's also his second chance. He might not get a third if regression continues.
That's something Samuel is striving to avoid. And he looks more than capable of making a big difference within Kliff Kingsbury's schematic concepts.