Florida State defensive end Patrick Payton says he intends on entering the Transfer Portal. The standout pass rusher posted on social media Tuesday evening “I’m Sorry Nole Nation I Plan To Enter The Transfer Portal.”
This came shortly after a cryptic text in which he Tweeted “Tsss i cant believe this finna happen.”
Payton’s name has not appeared in the official NCAA Transfer Portal database, yet.
Payton started all 13 games for FSU this season, recording 42 tackles, including 28 solo tackles, 13.5 tackles for loss – which led the Seminoles – and six sacks. He also had seven quarterback hurries. He recorded one forced fumble. He also had 10 pass breakups, an exceptionally high number for an edge rusher. In his first two seasons with the Seminoles, Payton appeared in 13 games, recording 31 tackles, 6.0 tackles for loss, a forced fumble, and three pass breakups.
Defensive end was a major priority for FSU this Portal cycle before this development. The Seminoles are all but certain to lose Jared Verse to the NFL Draft, and were in need of help replacing the star pass rusher. Losing his running mate, if Payton follows through with this plan, would create a major gap at defensive end for the 2024 roster.
As a prep prospect out of Miami (Fla.) Northwestern, Payton was rated as the No. 15 linebacker prospect and the No. 155 overall prospect, according to 247Sports.com
