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When they selected four defensive linemen in the first round of four consecutive NFL drafts, the Washington Commanders knew it would be challenging to keep them all.
After Washington signed defensive tackle Daron Payne to a four-year extension in the offseason, the Commanders have now retained Jonathan Allen and Payne from their four first-round picks.
Next up are defensive ends Montez Sweat and Chase Young. After the Commanders declined Young’s fifth-year option in April, he and Sweat [who is playing on his fifth-year option in 2023] are free agents in 2024. If both players play to their potential next season, one is not coming back, as Washington will be unable to afford both.
Sweat has been pretty consistent throughout his four seasons. His 2021 season was marred by an injury and a family tragedy, forcing him to miss seven games. Outside of that, Sweat has never missed another game. In four seasons, he has 29 career sacks, establishing a career-high of nine sacks in 2020.
Could Sweat be on the verge of a breakout season in 2023?
Defensive coordinator Jack Del Rio believes so, likening Sweat’s position to Payne’s one year ago. Del Rio explained why the situations are similar.
“I think that was really the message for Daron Payne going into last year,” Del Rio said on Sweat finishing more plays.
“He was very disruptive the year before and left a lot on the plate. I think Montez is in a similar situation. I think he’s been very close, very disruptive, done a lot of really good things. I mean, he’s a good football player, and when he starts finishing at a higher rate, his numbers are gonna explode. I anticipate him having that kind of a year for us.”
That’s not Del Rio criticizing Sweat. The coaching staff loves Sweat. He’s an outstanding run defender. He’s close every week to picking up more sacks. And as Del Rio referenced, if he finishes on just a few more of those sacks, he’s going to earn a contract averaging at least $20 million annually.
There’s a blueprint that Payne established. Whether it’s Young, Sweat, or both, a big season in 2023 is good for all parties.