Payne delivered a sack and two pass defenses and anchored a red-zone defense that held the Giants to few points, highlighting Washington’s defensive resilience.

Payne anchored the Commanders' interior rush in Week 1, enabling Kinlaw to disrupt run lanes and press the pocket. His presence offered a high floor for Washington's defense against the run and created favorable opportunities for other linemen to pressure the quarterback.

Payne anchors the interior after Kinlaw, contributing to run defense and interior pressure. His role is central to a strong front, potentially improving the defense’s overall fantasy output as he frees others to rush. Payne's health and consistency will be a key driver of the front's reliability.

Payne's return anchors the middle, drawing attention and creating space for Kinlaw and Goldman to disrupt. His interior pressure stabilizes the front, enabling Miller and the edges to convert quick pressure into sacks and hurried passes.

Payne moves into a more natural interior role after losing a longtime teammate, allowing Kinlaw to occupy double teams and freeing Payne to chase inside-out. He’s leaned on to replicate near-elite 2022 production, anchoring the run defense and providing veteran stability as Kinlaw and Newton adapt.