The Washington Commanders are reportedly not planning to move defensive lineman Daron Payne this offseason. There was a time when that wasn't so certain, but general manager Adam Peters is excited to have him as part of the team's plans for one more season.
However, that didn't stop one NFL analyst from touting a potential trade to an ascending team with lofty ambitions for the 2026 campaign.
Washington isn't going to offer Payne an extension in advance. That makes it a prove-it year for the Pro Bowler, who hasn't quite lived up to the $90 million contract given out by head coach Ron Rivera after his 11.5 sack season in 2022.
Daron Payne trade idea makes no sense for the Commanders anymore
Payne is apparently on board, but things change quickly in the NFL. This topic was further discussed by Wynston Wilcox of FanSided, who suggested the Carolina Panthers could make an offer as they look to build on their NFC South championship triumph last season.
"The Carolina Panthers officially opened their championship window thanks to an improbable playoff appearance. The best way to capitalize on that — especially with Bryce Young still on his rookie deal — is to build this roster to continue to contend for the playoffs. Trading for Daron Payne is just that.
"So far, the Panthers are having a plentiful free agency. Adding Daron Payne would certainly put them in the conversation of contending in the NFC playoffs again."
Payne may have dropped below expectations, but the supporting cast around him wasn't exactly stellar in 2025. And with options dwindling on the free agent market, he'd be incredibly hard to replace at this stage of the offseason.
Obviously, everyone has a price. Trades are becoming more frequent than ever before. The Panthers have moved into win-now mode, as evidenced by their blockbuster acquisitions of edge rusher Jaelan Phillips and second-team All-Pro linebacker Devin Lloyd in free agency. They have the draft capital to make an intriguing offer, but their salary-cap situation would need to be tweaked significantly to absorb Payne's contract in this scenario.
This makes absolutely no sense from Washington's perspective right now. That wasn't necessarily the case earlier in the offseason, but Peters has already shown his hand. He wants Payne around, and if the performances warrant another financial commitment, the Commanders will seriously consider it in 2027.
Defensive coordinator Daronte Jones' unit has been revamped, with more arrivals imminent. Even so, having Payne's experience provides a sense of stability. The former Alabama star should also be highly motivated in a contract year, so removing him from the equation is not an option.
Payne will be on the books in 2026. What comes after that is less clear.