Commanders News: Chase Young, Daron Payne, Jacoby Brissett and Ron Rivera
By Dean Jones
Which Washington Commanders news stories are hitting the headlines with the first day of mandatory minicamp firmly in the rearview mirror?
Everyone was present and accounted for as the Washington Commanders embarked on their annual mandatory minicamp. Once again the tempo and standards expected were high, which is nothing new to the players who've been around throughout offseason workouts so far.
As always, it brought about its fair share of storylines. Among the topics causing debate in the local and national media include Daron Payne's ambitious targets, Chase Young's presence within the facility, Ron Rivera on the importance of education, and Jacoby Brissett looking to stake his own starting claim.
Let's delve into each topic in more detail.
Commander DT Daron Payne's ambitious targets
It was a season that will live long in the memory of Daron Payne. After the Washington Commanders opted not to pick up his fifth-year option, the formidable defensive tackle came to life with career numbers across the board and his first Pro Bowl appearance en route to a four-year, $90 million extension with $60 million guaranteed.
This was nothing more than Payne deserved after silencing his doubters. There is some work ahead in terms of improving his run defense, but the trajectory is pointing up at long last after a glittering 2022 campaign.
When discussing his goals for the upcoming season, Payne once again set a high bar via Drake Toll of Sports Illustrated. Based on his production last time around, it's not hard to see why he's so bullish.
"Last year I went into it with a goal of 10 sacks, and I got 11.5. I think I'm going to shoot for like 13 [sacks], and a whole bunch of TFL's and forced fumbles."
- Daron Payne via Sports Illustrated
These are lofty goals for Payne. But only a fool would bet against him.