Commanders Give Former Alabama Defensive Lineman Big Payday

Sunday afternoon, Ex-Alabama defensive tackle Daron Payne inked a deal to stay in D.C., agreeing to a 4-year, $90 million contract with the Washington Commanders.

Payne has been one of the best defensive tackles in the league since entering in 2018, however 2022 was his best season yet, recording 11.5 sacks and 20 quarterback hits, earning Payne a Pro Bowl nod.

The Ala., native is set to make $10 million in 2023, but that number will jump up to $23 million in 2024.

This contract makes Daron Payne the 2nd highest paid interior defensive lineman in the league, only behind the Rams' Aaron Donald, who is set to earn $34 million this season.

The Commanders also have former Alabama defensive lineman Jon Allen under contract, who is also making over $20 million a year.

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Rolling with 2nd-year quarterback Sam Howell gives Washington the cap flexibility to be able to pay two defensive tackles big money and go out and make some moves when free agency opens at 11 a.m. CT today.

With locking up Payne for the long term, in addition to having Jon Allen, Montez Sweat, and a potentially healthy Chase Young, the Commanders have one of the best defensive lines in the league as they continue to chase their first Super Bowl win since 1992.

Alabama Crimson Tide in Super Bowl LVII

Here are the best shots of former Tide stars Jalen Hurts, Landon Dickerson, Devonta Smith, and Josh Jobe in Super Bowl LVII. All four men played for the Philadelphia Eagles, who came up just short in one of the most competitive Super Bowls of all time, falling to the Kansas City Chiefs 38-35 in the waning seconds of the game.