"That wasn't very pleasant from Payne, who should have known better. However, this was set to provide the Commanders with a chance to see what 2024 second-round pick Johnny Newton could do from a starting role. Newton was relishing the opportunity. He's been a rotational presence once again this season, so this was supposed to be the audition for additional reps he'd been looking for."
"There is not enough trust in Newton's ability to be a well-rounded force on the interior. He doesn't have the size or strength to hold his ground against the run. His hand placement at the contact point doesn't provide enough leverage. He's marginally better as a pass-rusher, but there is an enormous amount of hard work ahead."
"The former Illinois standout failed to generate any momentum, especially on early downs. Washington reduced his involvement, with Eddie Goldman providing a much sounder interior base alongside Javon Kinlaw. Newton played just 39 percent of snaps, which is only slightly higher than the 34% of reps he's been allocated this season."
Daron Payne was suspended after punching Detroit Lions wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown. The suspension created an opportunity for 2024 second-round pick Johnny Newton to start. Newton had been a rotational presence this season and anticipated more reps. Washington reduced Newton's involvement, playing him on only 39 percent of snaps, slightly above his season average of 34 percent. Eddie Goldman and Javon Kinlaw provided a more reliable interior base. Newton lacks the size and strength to hold ground against the run, and his hand placement fails to provide leverage. He is marginally better as a pass-rusher but requires significant development. Washington initially hoped Newton would be a draft-day steal, but his progress has been a slower burn.
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