In a recent article from ESPN, Washington Commanders defensive tackle Daron Payne was listed as a potential trade candidate. Their analytics said there is a 25 percent chance Washington moves on from one of their best defenders. His contract situation is also part of the reason the Commanders may choose to trade Payne away:

“Washington dealt key defensive pieces at the deadline three years ago and could be faced with a similar predicament this time with Payne, who's 29 and still has value. Payne is a 2027 free agent with a $16.4 million base this year. But the NFC East is also winnable, despite Washington's 1-4-1 record, so that could be a point in favor of the Commanders keeping him. Jacksonville is a potential fit, with some in the league noting the Jaguars could use a versatile interior player with pass-rush ability and have looked for that since the offseason.”

It does not seem like a smart move for Washington to trade Payne if they are serious about making it to the playoffs this season. Despite all of their injuries, Payne has been a consistent presence. He has only missed three games in his nine-year career in the NFL and has played in every game this year for the Commanders.

So far this year, Payne has a sack and is third in tackles for loss on the Commanders behind K’Lavon Chaisson and Odafe Oweh. Washington needs their defense to play at an elite level if they are going to be competitive this year and Payne is a key part of the defense, demonstrated by his forced fumble in overtime against the New York Giants to give the Commanders a chance to win.

If they decide to move on from Payne, it will be a clear signal that Washington is not trying to compete this season.