RICHMOND — Redskins rookie defensive tackle Daron Payne will miss two-to-three weeks with an ankle injury, coach Jay Gruden said Saturday.
Payne, drafted with the 13th overall pick, is in a walking boot after having his foot stepped on during Friday’s practice. Moments after the injury occurred, the Alabama product remained on the ground, clutching his ankle.
The Redskins drafted Payne in order to bolster their defensive line. While Washington led the league in pressure rate last season, the defense ranked 32nd in run defense — giving up 134.1 yards per game.
Gruden said Payne be in a walking boot for a week. Asked how much of a set back this will be for the rookie, Gruden said, “not much.”
“He’s in great shape,” Gruden said. “He’s big, strong, physical. He’ll probably get stronger in the two weeks working out. So he’s in great shape. So it’s not a big deal. He’s already very smart and knows the defense.”
In addition to Payne’s injury, linebacker Ryan Anderson is dealing with back spasms. Anderson will miss Saturday’s practice, but Gruden said he hopes the linebacker will return on Sunday.
• Matthew Paras can be reached at mparas@washingtontimes.com.
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