This is the reason why Daron Payne isn’t starting against the Eagles in the Conference Championship game

The Washington Commanders will need to find a replacement for Daron Payne, as the defensive lineman has been ruled out of the NFC Championship Game against the Philadelphia Eagles. Payne was listed as questionable throughout the week due to knee and finger injuries, but the team’s medical staff ultimately decided he would not be fit to play.

Payne’s absence is a significant blow to the Commanders and ends an impressive streak of 88 consecutive starts dating back to the 2020 season. In the Divisional Round victory over the Detroit Lions, Payne played just 37 defensive snaps and five on special teams, managing to record one quarterback hit on Jared Goff.

During the regular season, the University of Alabama product was a key player for Washington’s defense, tallying 42 tackles (five for loss), four sacks, two passes deflected at the line of scrimmage, and seven quarterback hits. Payne also maintained discipline, receiving only four penalties throughout the year: one offside, one face mask, one neutral zone infraction, and one unnecessary roughness.

Who will replace Daron Payne against the Eagles?

The Commanders have two primary options to step into Payne’s role alongside Jonathan Allen in their 4-3 defensive front: veteran Sheldon Day and rookie Jer’Zhan Newton.

Sheldon Day: The eight-year NFL veteran has found a place in the Commanders’ defensive line rotation. Having previously played for the Jaguars, 49ers, Colts, Browns, and Vikings, Day recorded 24 tackles this season.

Jer’Zhan Newton: The rookie filled in as a starter for 11 games earlier this season when Jonathan Allen was sidelined by injury. Newton impressed, posting 44 tackles, two sacks, one pass deflection, a forced fumble, and a fumble recovery.

Both players will need to step up in Payne’s absence as Washington faces the challenge of containing Philadelphia’s dynamic offense in their bid for a Super Bowl LIX appearance.

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