All the hype seems to center on the Washington Commanders' offensive changes under new coordinator David Blough. However, for this team to bounce back as fans expect next season, the defensive gamble made by head coach Dan Quinn must also lead the charge.
Quinn went against his typical judgment. He fired defensive coordinator Joe Whitt Jr. after two years and replaced him with Daronte Jones, a rookie NFL play-caller with a fast-rising reputation in league circles.
The Commanders are hoping his aggressive scheme and ability to teach can have a massive impact. Based on early indications, his presence is already having a positive effect.
And there is one veteran who could benefit more than most.
Daron Payne could benefit greatly from Commanders' big defensive gamble
Nicki Jhabvala of The Athletic added her name to the growing list of those who believe Daron Payne could be set for a big year. The defensive lineman's size, explosiveness, and ability to wreak havoc look tailor-made for Jones' system. And in a contract year, he's got all the motivation needed to make a statement.
"[Daron] Payne’s power, versatility and elite run-stopping ability make him a great fit for any defense that resembles Brian Flores’ scheme in Minnesota. Payne’s athleticism can’t be overstated, even in Year 9. He can explode off the line to disrupt plays in the backfield, win one-on-one matchups and absorb blockers to keep the linebackers free."
The Commanders held firm with Payne this offseason. They opted to keep him around, but there will be no new extension beforehand. Washington wants to make him earn it, and urgency should be higher for the Alabama product than most.
Payne's last contract year saw him gain 11.5 sacks for the only Pro Bowl selection of his career. Asking the same might be pushing it, but operating as a 3-4 defensive end in Jones' scheme looks well-suited to his physical attributes.
With Javon Kinlaw on the other side, and free-agent signing Tim Settle Jr. set to operate as the nose tackle, this could be a formidable trio. Quinn is also expecting Johnny Newton to take off in Year 3, but he has work to do to improve against the run before confidence in the player's outlook increases.
Washington's edge-rushing options have also received the improvements they needed, so things are looking up. However, as the seasoned veteran and established locker-room leader, Payne will be counted on more than any other.
If he delivers the goods and the Commanders improve, Payne will bolster his claims for another lucrative financial commitment. And Jones' scheme could be the spark that makes this potential scenario a reality.
Add us as a preferred source on Google