5 Washington Commanders players on the hot seat entering 2024 season
By Dean Jones
Daron Payne - Commanders DL
Daron Payne wasn't alone in vastly underachieving last season. However, the defensive tackle is held to a higher standard than most considering the lucrative extension he was given to prevent him from leaving in free agency.
Payne's production was a shadow of the player fans saw dominate in 2022. One could point blame at the non-existent pass-rush over the second half of the campaign or the lack of motivation as another year descended into obscurity. Bouncing back this season is paramount in pursuit of avoiding any lingering concerns.
The former first-round pick out of Alabama is a ferocious presence when firing on all cylinders. Dan Quinn and Joe Whitt Jr. will be relying heavily on Payne and Jonathan Allen to provide the productive anchor needed for defensive improvements. Anything less could see Adam Peters break up this partnership before the trade deadline with second-round pick Johnny Newton waiting in the wings.
It would be bitterly disappointing if Payne didn't remind people why he got a bumper new deal and was such a highly-touted recruit coming out of college. He's a cornerstone piece, so nothing but exceptional production will do.
Noah Brown - Commanders WR
The Commanders needed another productive pass-catching presence after trading wide receiver Jahan Dotson to the Philadelphia Eagles. Those in power found it by securing the services of Noah Brown.
Brown was the Houston Texans' odd man out within a crowded wideout room this summer. He's got a previous connection to Dan Quinn and has the physical attributes needed to become a major factor in Kliff Kingsbury's passing attack. However, this is a feast-or-famine acquisition in no uncertain terms.
When Brown is on form, he's almost unguardable. He also tends to go missing for long periods. Washington's coaching staff must find the right balance and keep the former Ohio State standout engaged throughout the campaign.
This is easier said than done looking at Brown's overall body of work throughout his career. He's got the size and athleticism to be dynamic. He also won two games for the Texans in 2023 by accumulating 325 receiving yards over a two-game period in 2023.
A significant opportunity awaits Brown despite his late arrival. Maximizing it is crucial.
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