NFL Rumors: Washington Commanders Plan To Franchise Tag Pro Bowl DT

The Washington Commanders had a solid season in 2022, despite playing in the toughest division in the NFL, but with a strong start to the off-season, this is a team that could no doubt play meaningful football in January next season.

It they are to do that, the defence will need to be every bit as good as they were in 2022, and one way to ensure that is to bring back Pro Bowl Defensive Tackle Daron Payne, and while he was expected to be a huge name on the market, it appears Washington are preparing to franchise tag him.

Update: The #Commanders are expected to place to Franchise tag Pro-Bowl DT Daron Payne, according to @BenStandig

Daron Payne would've been one of the most sought after free-agents. pic.twitter.com/8RanYKAgXs

— Dov Kleiman (@NFL_DovKleiman) February 22, 2023

His 5th NFL season in 2022 was undoubtedly his best, as he ended the year with 64 tackles, 11.5 sacks, 1 fumble recovery and 5 passes deflected, and if Washington can add some talent around them, they'll be a team to watch in 2023.

Photo Credit: Rich Barnes-USA TODAY Sports