Alabama in the Pros

Washington Commanders expected to franchise tag Da’Ron Payne

by
Stephen M. Smith
February 23, 2023

Geoff Burke - USA Today Sports

The Washington Commanders are trying to hang on to one of its young defensive leaders.

Ben Standig of The Athletic is reporting — citing sources — that the Commanders are expected to franchise tag defensive tackle, Da’Ron Payne. Payne, a former University of Alabama standout, got selected at No. 13 overall in the 2018 NFL Draft. He turned in his best season as a pro in the National Football League last year, setting career-highs in sacks (11.5) and tackles for loss (18).

The 6-foot-3, 320-pounder totaled 64 tackles and five pass breakups. Payne made his first NFL Pro Bowl and could get $18.937 million (franchise tender for defensive tackles) if he accepts the franchise tag.

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Stephen M. Smith is the managing editor and senior writer for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. You can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @CoachingMSmith.

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Stephen M. Smith

Stephen Smith is a 2015 graduate of the University of Alabama. He is a senior writer and reporter for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. He has covered Alabama football for 15 years and his knowledge and coverage of the Crimson Tide's program have made him among the most respected journalist in his field. Smith has been featured on ESPN and several other marquee outlets as an analyst.