Daron Payne - Commanders DL
Speculation was rampant this offseason about the future of Daron Payne. The Washington Commanders were tipped to entertain trade offers for the defensive lineman. A few reports suggested that he could be in line for an early extension. Instead, Adam Peters did nothing.
The Commanders are letting Payne play out the final year of his deal without a new agreement in place. This is a sensible approach, especially considering how the player's best campaign of his pro career came in a contract year. Whether he's capable of 11.5 sacks again is highly debatable, but there is an improved supporting cast around the Alabama product to help him along the way.
Daronte Jones is expected to move into a 3-4 base defensive front. Payne will be joined by Javon Kinlaw and Tim Settle Jr. on the interior, with better options coming off the edge. But if he cannot produce, he'll be traded before the deadline or moved on at season's end.
Will Harris - Commanders S
When the Commanders opted to let Jeremy Chinn walk in favor of the Las Vegas Raiders last year, Adam Peters identified Will Harris as the perfect candidate to fill the void. Unfortunately, this quickly became a grave error in judgment.
Harris suffered an early injury that dented any hope he had of making an impression. As Chinn excelled on a struggling Raiders team, Washington's replacement for the explosive safety failed to find his groove. Even when he got back into the lineup, there was nothing much to encourage.
Defensive coordinator Daronte Jones made a point of praising Harris during his introductory press conference. That might mean something, it might mean nothing, but with Nick Cross already on board, his starting status is far from assured.
Regardless of Harris' role next season, a massive effort is needed to improve his chances of an extended stay. Right now, that seems highly unlikely.
Treylon Burks - Commanders WR
The Commanders liked what they saw in flashes from Treylon Burks last season. They gave him another one-year deal this offseason that could be worth up to $4 million with incentives, but it was his conversation with offensive coordinator David Blough that tipped the scales in Washington's favor.
Blough reportedly sees a big role for Burks within his scheme. The talent and physical attributes have never been in question. It's all about finding consistency and better luck on the health front. If both those scenarios become reality, a breakout campaign is well within his capabilities.
Washington didn't do much to strengthen its receiver room this offseason. More help is coming, but Burks should still fancy his chances of making a bigger impression with a full offseason to immerse himself in Blough's scheme and reach optimal fitness levels.
Opportunity knocks for Burks, but the Commanders can move on if he doesn't show enough.