"Entering the season, one of the biggest Washington Commanders storylines to monitor in Washington was how the defensive line would step up after some notable offseason changes. Veteran Jonathan Allen is out the door, replaced by Javon Kinlaw at great expense in free agency. But it was one of the team's longest-serving players who had the most to gain from Allen's departure."
"Payne was visible early and often against the Giants, accounting for a third-down tackle on New York's opening drive that forced a punt. He continued to generate pressure throughout the first half, and finally, he took down Russell Wilson late in the second quarter to register Washington's first sack of 2025. The Commanders' defensive line has been viewed as an area of concern all offseason, with Payne and Kinlaw both facing criticism due to their hefty contracts."
Jonathan Allen departed in free agency and Javon Kinlaw signed a large contract, altering the Commanders' defensive front. Daron Payne remained amid pressure to rebound from a down 2024 season and reclaim Pro Bowl form. In Week 1 Payne forced a third-down tackle, created consistent pressure, and registered Washington's first sack of 2025 by bringing down Russell Wilson late in the second quarter. The defensive line drew offseason criticism for hefty contracts and uneven contributions from additions like Dorance Armstrong Jr. and Deatrich Wise Jr. The unit can be productive if core players perform at their best.
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