Panthers linked to Commanders DT Daron Payne as trade target
The short version
- Bleacher Report's Kristopher Knox linked the Panthers to Commanders DT Daron Payne as a trade target.
- Payne, 29, is a former Alabama first-round pick with one Pro Bowl nod and 37.0 career sacks.
- He is set to become a free agent in the spring.
- Carolina ranks last in rushing yards allowed entering Week 3.
A Bleacher Report proposal names Carolina as a potential suitor for Washington's Daron Payne as the Panthers struggle against the run.
The Carolina Panthers have been suggested as a possible trade suitor for Washington Commanders defensive tackle Daron Payne in a proposal from Kristopher Knox of Bleacher Report.
Knox argues that if Washington chooses to look ahead to 2027 and beyond, the club should strongly consider trading Payne. The 29-year-old is scheduled to become a free agent in the spring, and there is no certainty he would want to re-sign if the Commanders endure another losing season.
Payne, a former first-round pick out of Alabama, has one Pro Bowl selection to his name. Over 132 career games he has recorded 37.0 sacks, 82 quarterback hits and 65 tackles for loss.
Carolina could use help defending the run, entering Week 3 last in the league in rushing yards allowed by a wide margin. The team has also been working out linebackers and a defensive back after Claudin Cherelus suffered an arm injury in Sunday's win, and is examining running backs after Jonathon Brooks went on injured reserve with a groin issue.
