(Photo by Scott Taetsch/Getty Images)
The Washington Commanders placed the franchise tag on Daron Payne early in the NFL offseason.
If he played on the tag, Payne would have received a salary of $18.937 million for the 2023 season.
However, just a few weeks after the tag was applied, the Commanders and Payne agreed to a four-year contract.
Sources: Washington’s franchise player Daron Payne became the highest-paid DT in NFL history not named Aaron Donald, reaching agreement today on a four-year, $90 million deal that includes $60 million guaranteed. pic.twitter.com/ZJsM2xnaSp
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 12, 2023
Payne inked a four-year, $90 million deal, which includes $60 million in guaranteed cash,.
This makes Payne the highest-paid defensive tackle in NFL history, not including Aaron Donald.
After this deal was signed, many NFL fans reacted to this news, including many excited Commanders faithful.
As this Commanders fan indicates, the Alabama wall for the Commanders, consisting of Payne and Jonathan Allen, will continue for another season.
Hell Yeah thank you @RiverboatRonHC & Commanders Front office for making this happen.
The Alabama Wall will remain intact in Washington!!!
— Razor Ramon (@AlterEgo_24) March 12, 2023
Allen had an impressive 2022 season, and he and Payne will look to continue their success into 2023.
Even though Commanders fans have been initially excited about this news, many have been surprised that the team was able to get a deal done.
I’m surprised we got this done but happy we did. Interior pressure has been very important in the league
— SELL THE TEAM (@TheDCcommanders) March 12, 2023
As this fan points out, interior pressure is one of the most essential facets of defense.
By putting pressure on an opposing quarterback, it’s difficult for them to stay in the pocket, making them much more likely to make mistakes.
Despite initial positivity from Commanders fans, fans of other NFL teams have demonstrated skepticism.
All this just for the commanders to finish 4 in the division
— Kenneth (@Ironcoach48) March 12, 2023
Building a defense is difficult, and it takes a lot of time and money to make it happen.
To this NFL fan, he believes that, even though the Commanders are taking extraordinary efforts on the defensive side of the ball, they are likely to still finish last in the division in 2023.
We ruining the giants too. W’s across the board
— HIM (@JustiseeFR) March 12, 2023
Will the Commanders be able to make a splash in their division, passing up the New York Giants at the very least?
The post NFL Fans React To Daron Payne’s Massive Deal With Commanders appeared first on The Cold Wire.
