The Washington Commanders had some big problems to address after their 5-12 season in 2025. Injuries were a major reason the season did not go well, with the Commanders having to bring in another quarterback at the end just to get by. But it wasn't just the offense, no, the defense suffered its fair share of injuries as well.

One of the Commanders' bright spots, though, was with defensive tackle Daron Payne. As members of the defensive line went down like dominoes, Payne, along with Javon Kinlaw and Jer'Zhan Newton, kept the defensive line from completely crumbling. It still wasn't pretty, but the lack of depth took its toll on their stamina. Without rotational pieces to provide much relief, the Commanders' defensive front seven did the best they could.

Now, though, FOX Sports reporter Ralph Vacchinao suggests that the Jacksonville Jaguars attempt to trade for Payne during the 2026 NFL Draft.

Acquire: DT Daron Payne from the Washington CommandersCost: 2026 third-round pick (88th), 2026 fourth-round pick (124th)

Payne had 11.5 sacks in 2022 and looked like one of the best defensive tackles in the league. Since then, on some bad Washington defenses, he’s had just 11 sacks in three seasons. But he’s only 29 and his ceiling remains high, making him worth the gamble for the Jags. He’d give them the interior pass rush they were so obviously lacking last season. With Travon Walker and Josh Hines-Allen on the edge, Payne could make a big difference playing next to Arik Armstead in the middle. He’s in the final year of his contract, and due about $21 million, which could keep his trade price out of the first two rounds.

An eight-year NFL veteran, Payne is nearing the dreaded age of 30, and while the Commanders likely don't want to let him go, the return could be incentive enough.

Right now, the Commanders don't have a second- or fourth-round pick in the draft, with just six picks in total. Should this trade become viable for both teams, the Commanders will gain two additional draft picks, one of which could be used to find Payne's replacement.

This would be a great deal for the Commanders. Payne is entering the final year of his contract, and his performance has been up and down in recent seasons. He's spent his entire career with the Commanders, surviving the transition from previous ownership to what we see today. He doesn't often get injured, and he's always reliable on the field. While Commanders will probably keep him around in 2026, a trade offer, such as this one, could be good news for a team that added defensive tackle Tim Settle in free agency and is switching defensive schemes this season under new coordinator Daronte Jones.

This article originally appeared on Commanders Wire: Washington Commanders: DT Daron Payne to the AFC?