Daron Payne Rich Schultz/GettyImages

Resurgent Commanders veteran turning heads for the right reasons at OTAs

Originally posted on Riggo's Rag | By Dean Jones | Last updated Jun 5, 2025 10:00 AM ET

Releasing veteran defensive tackle Jonathan Allen was a difficult yet almost inevitable call by the Washington Commanders this offseason. It also left a gaping hole on the field and in the locker room that must be filled effectively.

One player is coming to the fore, emerging from Allen's shadow in pursuit of stepping into his shoes.

The reports have been glowing around Daron Payne over Washington's organized team activities. He's come in for criticism from sections of the media and fan base over the last two seasons, but the renewed focus and purpose have been evident over early workouts. If the same trend continues over the summer, it's going to be the biggest positive imaginable entering the 2025 campaign.

Commanders looking for leadership from Daron Payne after Jonathan Allen's release

Head coach Dan Quinn and defensive coordinator Joe Whitt Jr. singled Payne out for special praise during their media availability on Wednesday. The pair lauded his commitment and overall approach. He's setting an example as the senior figure that others must follow accordingly.

Joe Whitt said Daron Payne is one guy who has really stood out with his play and leadership during the offseason so far.
— Nicki Jhabvala (@NickiJhabvala) June 4, 2025

Payne elaborated on his newfound approach. He's looking to set the tone. He's also responding to his coaches, who challenged him to be more of a leader in the wake of Allen's departure.

Just coming in, trying to show the young boys how to do it by doing it. After the season, you get to talk with all the coaches. Coach [Darryl] Tapp, he challenged me to be a leader, so I've just been challenging myself to be a leader, just going out there and working hard.Daron Payne via 7News DC

Dan Quinn, Joe Whitt Jr. love what they are seeing from Daron Payne during OTA's.

The Commanders DT is stepping up as a leader, while his work and approach is shining on the field.

Daron said, "just trying to show the young boys how to do it." pic.twitter.com/7jskJGaCDV
— Scott Abraham (@Scott7news) June 4, 2025

The former first-round pick out of Alabama freely admitted that in previous years, he'd do the work required and go about his business away from the team. Payne had Allen, a longtime teammate in Washington and with the Crimson Tide in college, shoulder those duties.

That's not the case anymore. Allen is now on the Minnesota Vikings, leaving Payne as the elder statesman on Washington's defensive front. The time to take over the mantle has arrived, and it's something the interior force is taking seriously.

A fully motivated Payne is going to be crucial for the Commanders in their quest to get over the hump. There's also plenty at stake for the player, who's the team's highest salary-cap hit currently and could be a potential cut candidate next spring if loftier standards aren't met.

That's a scenario nobody wants. But these latest revelations around Payne's growing influence are notable. And everyone associated with the Commanders stands to benefit if this eventually sees him become Allen's locker room alpha replacement.