4 players to sign in 2023 if Carolina Panthers don’t extend Matt Ioannidis

Carolina Panthers could sign Daron Payne

The Washington Commanders are fortunate enough to have some elite talent across their defensive front. Something that they’ve invested multiple first-round picks in over recent years and was a reason why Matt Ioannidis was deemed surplus to requirements.

There will come a time when keeping them all around could be difficult. All want to be paid significantly sooner rather than later and Daron Payne is next up with his rookie contract coming to a conclusion in 2023.

Payne is a relentless force on the defensive line interior and has steadily increased his influence with every passing year. His production last time around was outstanding, which resulted in 4.5 sacks, 61 tackles, six tackles for loss, 15 quarterback hits, 27 pressures, and a 64.2 grade from Pro Football Focus.

The former Alabama standout has the chance to make some serious money next season. If Payne can improve his contribution further, then the Commanders could have trouble finding the financial resources unless they decide to allocate the franchise tag.

This is something that the Carolina Panthers and others around the league should be monitoring closely. If Washington and Payne go their separate ways, then there should be a significant amount of interest coming his way in free agency.