Packers Named Landing Spot For Star DT Daron Payne

The Green Bay Packers were able to get a big win over the rival Chicago Bears this past weekend, moving the team to 3-2 on the season.

But in the win, Green Bay did lose another defensive player to injury, seeing star lineman Javon Hargrave go down with a torn Achilles. The Packers just lost star linebacker Edgerrin Cooper to the same injury a week ago, adding some real concern around this defensive unit.

The Packers are also still without star Micah Parsons, while he recovers from a torn ACL that he suffered last season. Parsons is expected to return in the coming weeks, but until that happens, Green Bay is a little thin defensively.

After all the injuries, the Packers could elect to make a move to bolster the defense, giving themselves some insurance. The Green Bay front office may need to get busy, especially with the trade deadline coming up around the league

NFL analyst Zachary Pereles of CBS Sports listed star defensive tackle Daron Payne of the Washington Commanders as a potential option. Payne has been subject to trade rumors all offseason and into the new year, giving thought to a possible move.

Payne will be a free agent at the end of the year, and so far, the Commanders haven't been willing to give him a big contract. But the Packers could look to bring in the Pro-Bowl star, bolstering the defensive unit completely.

The veteran defensive tackle has been one of the best in the league since being drafted, and he's helped lead the charge for the Commanders. Last season, Payne recorded 46 total tackles (seven for loss), with 3.0 sacks and one forced fumble.

This year through the first few games, Payne has put up 11 total tackles (one for loss) and 1.0 sacks. Payne remains a top defensive tackle around the NFL, and the Packers could use his services.

The veteran is excellent at stopping the run, and he could help Green Bay navigate the defense after all the injuries. And once Parsons does return to the team, having Payne could give the Packers more to work with.

Overall, Green Bay may want to consider taking a look at someone like Payne, giving this team some insurance after all the injuries that they have seen take place. Payne could thrive playing in Green Bay under defensive coordinator Jonathan Gannon, while giving the Packers a legitimate Pro-Bowler going forward.