The Washington Commanders face a significant setback as defensive tackle Daron Payne has been ruled out for the NFC Championship Game due to a knee injury. This loss is particularly impactful as the team prepares to face the Philadelphia Eagles and their star running back, Saquon Barkley. Payne has been a consistent presence on the defensive line, playing every game since 2020 and notching four sacks this season.

Despite battling a dislocated thumb in previous playoffs, Payne's knee injury forced him to miss practice all week. Initially listed as questionable, his status was downgraded to out just before the game. In Payne's absence, rookie Jer'Zhan Newton will step in alongside Jon Allen, who had missed previous matchups against the Eagles. The Commanders previously managed to limit Barkley to just 27 yards in the second half during their earlier encounter, highlighting the challenge ahead without Payne.