2013 (Jr.): Payne saw action in five games during the season, seeing time against Tennessee, Troy, Georgia State, Texas State and Arkansas State primarily as a reserve defensive tackle.
2012 (So.): Payne played in six games during his sophomore campaign, recording both of his tackles in the season-opening win against Austin Peay on Sept. 1. Payne also played a role in wins over Arkansas State on Sept. 29, FIU on Oct. 27 and North Texas on Nov. 24.
2011 (Fr.): Payne played in eight games as a true freshman, seeing time as a reserve on the Hilltopper defensive line. He compiled six total tackles in eight games, including a sack and a forced fumble against Louisiana-Lafayette on Oct. 22, helping the Hilltoppers to their third win of the season. He saw playing time against No. 1-ranked LSU on Nov. 12, posting a pair of tackles. Payne also had one tackle in the season finale against Troy on Nov. 26.
HS/Misc: Payne tallied 57 total tackles in his senior season at Auburn High School, including eight sacks from his defensive line position. For his career, he recorded 125 tackles and 11 sacks as a three-year starter on defense. He was named an Alabama vs. Mississippi All-Star as well as an Honorable Mention All-State performer his senior year. Payne rated as a three-star recruit and the 73rd-ranked defensive tackle in the nation by ESPN.com.
