Washington Commanders defensive tackle Daron Payne is in line for a hefty payday after having his first Pro Bowl season in a contract year. However, the 25-year-old may not hit free agency. According to Ben Standig of The Athletic, the Commanders expect to place the franchise tag on Payne.
The franchise tag for Payne will be $18.937 million for the 2023 season. The window for the franchise tag started Tuesday and runs through Mar. 7. Payne made just over $8.5 million in 2022, playing on a fifth-year option.
Payne had a breakout season in 2022. He led the Commanders with a career-high 11.5 sacks. Additionally, Payne had 64 tackles, and five passes defended — both career highs. He made his first career Pro Bowl along with college and Commanders teammate and fellow defensive tackle Jonathan Allen.
The strength of the Commanders’ defense has long been the defensive line. The defensive line in Washington features four first-round draft picks, including Allen and Payne at defensive tackle and Montez Sweat and Chase Young at defensive end.
Washington recently signed Allen to a four-year, $72 million contract extension through 2024. Allen carries a $21.4 million salary cap hit. Sweat will play next season on an $11.5 million fifth-year option. The Commanders also have until May 1 to exercise or decline the 2024 fifth-year option for Young.
Daron Payne projects a $19.4 million average annual salary. He would command a large market in free agency that could drive his value north of $20 million per year. Placing the franchise tag on Payne buys Washington time to get a deal done. At the very least, one more year of service.
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