According to an insider report, the Washington Commanders are discussing the prospect of defensive tackle Daron Payne playing out the final year of his deal without an extension or restructure. If accurate, he will undoubtedly be the highest salary-cap hit on the team once again in 2026.
Some fans believe this relationship has run its course. Others think that Payne should be extended as the team's best interior lineman. The truth probably lies somewhere in the middle, and if he cannot raise his performance levels under new coordinator Daronte Jones in 2026, the Commanders have an extra $28 million available next year.
Nothing has been confirmed for sure. There are many unknowns with a new scheme and different ideas coming into the building. But to ensure Jones' smooth transition, Washington could easily keep one of its most experienced defenders on the books to see if any more untapped potential remains.
Commanders insider questioned the viability of Daron Payne seeing out his deal
Not everyone agrees with this theory. Grant Paulsen from 106.7 The Fan thought the savings attached to Payne's departure could be better spent elsewhere. He is a good player, but $28 million is a ton of money for someone with such sketchy production over the past few years.
"You can't convince me that he is worth paying $28 million for a football season, and I like him. I am a Daron Payne guy. I actually think he's their best defensive player, and I don't think it's even particularly close. If you were to release him going into this year, you can save yourself almost $17 million in cap space. That could be a starting defensive tackle who's really good on the market. That's more money than you gave Javon Kinlaw. You could also just use that on several starters over a few different positions."Grant Paulsen, 106.7 The Fan
Paying Daron Payne $28M this season? Is it really worth it? Releasing him would save $17M in cap space, enough for a starting defensive tackle or multiple starters.... pic.twitter.com/o6mJ7P9WC3
— 106.7 The Fan (@1067theFan) January 28, 2026
It's a fair argument. If the contracts are structured correctly, $17 million on the 2026 cap could bring in three or four quality players. It's enough for one or two big splashes. Payne's absence would leave massive shoes to fill, but it's been a long time since his Pro Bowl campaign in 2022, which earned him a $90 million extension.
If the report is accurate, and the Commanders are going to keep faith with Payne, it's a clear sign that they believe he can improve in a new system and with better personnel around him. Washington isn't strapped for cash this offseason, either, so retaining his services does have merit.
After that, things are less clear. And the Commanders waiting to resolve his contract one way or another might cost them a lot more in the long run if Payne goes on a tear under Jones' guidance.
Payne won't be lacking in motivation next season. Hopefully, that will benefit the Commanders if they maintain the status quo.