Steelers should trade for Payne
A name that has heated up for the Steelers following the retirement of Stephon Tuitt, Daron Payne would almost be like a pipedream for the team. One of the better interior linemen in the league, Payne is a dominating force against the run, and he is a decent pass rusher to boot. He would be a clear upgrade to this unit if added and a scary running mate alongside Cameron Heyward.
Why are the Commanders looking to trade him? The simple answer is, with so many talented defensive linemen, the Commanders can only pay so many guys. With the addition of Phidarian Mathis through the draft, Washington already seemingly has his replacement. They may look to trade him as opposed to letting him walk and taking the compensatory pick.
While I, like any sensible fan, would be thrilled to see Payne join this team, the odds don’t seem likely. For starters, trading for him will be expensive, as would the contract they would have to turn around and give him. Add in the team’s comfort with Wormley and the rest of their depth chart; this move isn’t likely. That said, adding him would make a good unit that much better.