ASHBURN, Va — Daron PayneThe offseason was spent developing his pass-rush skills with the goal of getting rid of his run stuffer reputation.
“Coming out (of the University of Alabama), I was known as the run stuffer,” the 2018 first-round pick said. “But now people want to see me be able to get after the quarterback.”
He was a stronger than expected defensive tackle and he pumped iron in Birmingham, Ala. and sought advice from several gurus about how to make his pocket collapse. Von Miller’s Pass-rushing campIt is usually a haven of sharp edge rushers but this summer, the 320-pound interior linesmen joined the fray.
Payne now has two sacks, five QB hits, and is only two games in to the season. At this rate, he would easily surpass his career highs of five sacks (2018) or 15 QB hits (2021).
The grind continues. Only 15 regular-season matches remain. Payne and his fellow teammates see this as where the training pays off.
“During the offseason is when you try to get your strongest,” said Payne, who is set to be a free agent in 2023. “During the season, you just go out and ball and try to maintain (your development). Although you might not be as able to lift as much, you can still do great stuff. … In-season is more about being in control of your body.”
You will have to catch up with those who didn’t maximize their offseason plan. It is often difficult considering the chaos and bruising. NFL season.
Coaches take into account that modern players put in the work to develop, exercise, and film, and create roster plans accordingly.
