LSU’s head coach Brian Kelly is taking steps to strengthen the Tigers’ defense after a challenging 2024 season. On Sunday, LSU secured a major addition from the transfer portal: Patrick Payton, a former ACC Defensive Rookie of the Year and Florida State defensive end, as reported by On3 Sports. Payton, who has played four seasons at Florida State, will bring his experience to Baton Rouge with one year of eligibility remaining.
Despite a slight dip in performance in 2024, where he recorded 35 tackles and four sacks, Payton’s sophomore season in 2023 showcased his potential. That year, he posted career-high stats, including 43 tackles, seven sacks, and two forced fumbles, earning him honorable mention All-ACC honors. The 6-foot-5 edge rusher is expected to fill a starting role on LSU’s defensive line. Although LSU tallied 33 sacks in 2024, they are set to lose key contributors Bradyn Swinson and Sai’vion Jones, who combined for 13 sacks, making Payton’s addition crucial.
At the time of his commitment, Payton was considered a top-five player in the transfer portal and the best available edge rusher. His move leaves former Georgia Tech receiver Eric Singleton Jr. as the top remaining portal prospect. Payton’s decision to transfer rather than declare for the draft gives him an opportunity to elevate his draft stock with a strong season in Baton Rouge.
Payton’s commitment comes shortly before LSU’s season finale against Baylor in the Texas Bowl on Dec. 31. Both teams hold 8-4 records, but Baylor carries momentum from a six-game winning streak, while LSU stumbled late in the season with three consecutive losses to Texas A&M, Alabama, and Florida. The Tigers recovered with wins over Vanderbilt and Oklahoma but failed to meet their SEC title aspirations.
The game will be played at NRG Stadium in Houston, giving Baylor a slight edge with its campus only two hours away, compared to LSU’s longer travel distance.
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