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Panthers Linked to Trade for Daron Payne

Analysts suggest the Panthers target Washington's veteran defensive tackle to bolster their struggling defensive line.

Updated on Sept. 23, 2026 in Football

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Analysts have identified Washington Commanders defensive tackle Daron Payne as a primary trade target for the Carolina Panthers to address interior line depth. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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The Carolina Panthers have emerged as a potential destination for Washington Commanders defensive tackle Daron Payne. The proposed move aims to address Carolina's critical need for interior line depth following a series of defensive injuries.

Why it matters

The Panthers currently rank last in the league in rushing yards allowed, making defensive reinforcement a high priority. Meanwhile, the Commanders are evaluating their roster strategy as Payne approaches free agency in the spring.

Daron Payne, 29, has appeared in 132 career games, recording 37.0 sacks, 82 quarterback hits, and 65 tackles for a loss. The Panthers' interior depth is currently compromised by injuries to Tershawn Wharton and Bobby Brown III.

The players

Daron Payne

He is a 29-year-old veteran defensive tackle for the Washington Commanders.

Carolina Panthers

This professional football team is based in Charlotte and competes in the NFL.

Washington Commanders

This professional football organization is based in the Washington area.

Tershawn Wharton

He is a starting defensive lineman for the Carolina Panthers currently dealing with an injury.

Bobby Brown III

He is an interior defensive lineman for the Carolina Panthers who is currently sidelined by an injury.

The details

Bleacher Report analysts proposed the potential trade to help Washington look toward the 2027 season while addressing Carolina's defensive gaps. The team is also navigating immediate roster challenges after placing Jonathon Brooks on injured reserve and losing Claudin Cherelus to an arm injury.

Timeline

  1. The Panthers entered Week 3 ranked last in rushing yards allowed.

  2. Claudin Cherelus suffered an arm injury this past Sunday.

  3. The Panthers conducted workouts for three players this Tuesday.

  4. Daron Payne is scheduled to become a free agent in the spring of 2027.

Season Trajectory

This move mirrors the league-wide pattern of teams clearing cap space during the 2027 NFL roster planning cycle. The potential trade signals a strategic departure for Washington as they look to rebuild, while the Panthers prioritize immediate competitive balance.

The Panthers' bottom-ranked rush defense needs immediate stabilization to remain competitive for the remainder of the season. If a trade occurs, it will likely necessitate a significant shift in Carolina's defensive rotation to accommodate a new high-profile tackle.

The takeaway

Front offices often initiate these types of trade talks to align team depth with long-term salary cap stability. Fans should watch for how the Panthers address their defensive injuries following this week's player workouts.

Further reading

For more updates on roster moves and team performance, visit the Football section.

Live Poll

Should your local professional team prioritize long-term roster development over immediate mid-season performance fixes?