Patrick Payton

NFL Draft Profile: Patrick Payton

Position: Defensive End / EDGE | School: LSU (via Florida State)

Class: Redshirt Senior | Height: 6'6" | Weight: 255 lbs | Archetype: Pass Rusher (Speed Rusher)

College Career Summary

Patrick Payton's collegiate path is one of elite flashes and physical transformation. After a redshirt year in 2021, Payton exploded onto the scene as the 2022 ACC Defensive Rookie of the Year at Florida State. He became a staple of the Seminoles' defensive front, recording 14.5 TFLs and 7.0 sacks in 2023. Seeking a fresh start and a higher-profile platform for his senior year, he transferred to LSU for the 2025 season. While his sack production dipped (1.0 sack) as he adjusted to the SEC's bigger, more athletic offensive tackles, his role as a disruptor remained; he led the Tigers' edge rushers in pass breakups (6) and QB hurries (9). He enters the draft as an "uber-length" prospect with the frame and wingspan that NFL scouts covet for modern pass-rush systems.

Highlight Career Stats:

• Games Played: 52

• Total Tackles: 144 (30 in 2025)

• Tackles For Loss (TFL): 35.5 (4.0 in 2025)

• Sacks: 17.0 (1.0 in 2025)

• Pass Breakups (PD): 20 (6 in 2025 — elite for a DL)

• Career Note: Transferred to LSU in December 2024; 2022 ACC Defensive Rookie of the Year.

2025 Season Game-by-Game Grades

Opponent	Stats	Grade	Key Performance Note
@ Clemson	1 Tkl, 1 PD	B	Solid in coverage; knocked down a pass at the line.
Louisiana Tech	2 Tkl, 1 QBH	B-	Quiet day; struggled to disengage from double teams.
Florida	3 Tkl, 0.5 Sk	B+	First SEC production; showcased good Acceleration.
Southeastern La.	0 Stats	C	Limited snaps; ineffective against quick-release passing.
@ Ole Miss	5 Tkl, 2 PD	A-	Star impact in the air; used length to disrupt lanes.
South Carolina	4 Tkl, 0.5 Sk, 1 FR	B+	High IQ play on a fumble recovery; steady pressure.
@ Vanderbilt	4 Tkl, 0.5 TFL	C+	Lacked "finish" on several missed backfield tackles.
Texas A&M	2 Tkl, 2 PD	B	High Stamina in a high-scoring loss; batted two balls.
@ Alabama	2 Tkl	C-	Worst Game. Bullied by Alabama's power run game.
Arkansas	1 Tkl	B-	Disciplined edge setting but no pass-rush impact.
Western Kentucky	3 Tkl, 1.0 TFL	B+	Better Pursuit; lived in the backfield early.
@ Oklahoma	3 Tkl, 1.0 TFL, 1 PD	A-	Competitor drive; played his best ball late in the year.

Scouting Report

Strengths

• Exceptional Length: Standing 6'6" with a massive wingspan, Payton is a "pass-bating" specialist. His 20 career pass breakups are unheard of for an edge rusher, showing elite Play Recognition.

• Flexible Bend: He possesses the "ghost" move potential, able to dip his shoulder and get under the reach of taller tackles.

• Backside Pursuit: His Speed and Pursuit allow him to track down run plays from the opposite side of the field, often making tackles 15 yards downfield.

• Experience: With over 50 games played in both the ACC and SEC, he has seen every type of blocking scheme.

Weaknesses

• Play Strength: At 255 lbs, he is lean. He can be washed out of the hole by "down blocks" from power-oriented offensive lines.

• Inconsistent Motor: Scouts have noted that when he is beaten on the initial move, his "second effort" to chase the pocket can wane.

• Pad Level: Because of his 6'6" height, he naturally plays high. He needs better Technique to stay low and avoid being stood up by smaller, stouter guards.

Scheme Fit: Ideal 3-4 Outside Linebacker or a Wide-9 Speed Rusher.

NFL Comparison: Gregory Rousseau / Leonard Floyd

Scout’s Final Word & Projection

Intangibles: 16/20 | Physical Tools: 18/20 | Attributes: 15/20 | Athleticism: 18/20 | IQ: 17/20

Final Grade: 84/100

Patrick Payton is a "projection" prospect whose floor is a situational pass-rush specialist. His 2025 season at LSU proved that he can handle the physicality of the SEC, but his lack of sack production will cause some teams to hesitate. However, his ability to affect the passing game without even touching the quarterback (via pass breakups) is a rare trait. In a league that prizes length and speed, Payton will be valued by teams that run 3-4 systems where he can stand up and use his athleticism to roam. He is a high-ceiling player who needs an NFL weight room to maximize his Strength.

Draft Projection: 3rd - 4th Round (High upside swing)