Commanders Place $135 Million Starting Duo on Injured Reserve

The Washington Commanders have placed starting defensive tackles Daron Payne and Javon Kinlaw, along with running back Jeremy McNichols, on injured reserve. Payne, who is playing on a four-year, $90 million contract, sustained a season-ending Jones fracture in his foot during practice on October 31. Kinlaw, signed to a three-year, $45 million deal before the 2025 season, was placed on IR while managing a knee injury.

All three players will miss at least the next four games. Payne's injury also effectively ends any trade discussions ahead of the November 10 NFL trade deadline, where he had been considered a top trade candidate prior to getting hurt. Third-year defensive tackle Jer'Zhan Newton, recently activated from injured reserve, is expected to step up in their absence.