2026 NFL Draft: Grading Jets’ V.J. Payne selection in Round 7

By the time Round 7 rolls around, the focus shifts from immediate impact to traits, toughness, and potential. That’s exactly what the New York Jets targeted with the selection of V.J. Payne. He arrives as a productive and physical defensive back who checks several boxes teams look for in late-round picks.

Over the past few seasons, he consistently filled the stat sheet, totaling strong tackle numbers while also creating occasional turnovers and pass breakups. That kind of steady production speaks to reliability, something the Jets can always use on the back end.

His game starts with physicality. Payne is at his best playing downhill. He attacks ball carriers. He delivers solid tackles in space. He has the build and mentality of a traditional strong safety.

Payne is someone who can help in run support, pass coverage, and bringing an edge to the secondary. There’s more to his profile than just toughness, however. He has also shown flashes of versatility, lining up in deeper coverage and holding his own when asked to play over the top. That flexibility is key.

For a Jets defense looking to build depth and competition, having a player who can contribute in multiple roles increases his chances of sticking on the roster. Payne’s path to playing time will likely come on special teams at first, where his physical style should translate well, but if he can refine his coverage instincts and continue to develop, this could turn into a quietly effective addition.

Grade: B-

This article originally appeared on Jets Wire: 2026 NFL Draft: Grading Jets’ V.J. Payne selection in Round 7