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Former FSU defensive lineman invited to NFL rookie minicamp
TL;DR
Former FSU defensive lineman Patrick Payton has been invited to the Carolina Panthers rookie minicamp. Payton previously played for LSU after a standout career at Florida State.
Key points
- Patrick Payton accepted an invitation to the Carolina Panthers rookie minicamp
- He was named ACC Defensive Rookie of the Year in 2022
- Payton transferred to LSU after a disappointing season at FSU
- He started all 13 games at LSU but had a less impressive performance
- Payton was FSU's No. 2 pass rusher during his time at the school
Patrick PaytonCarolina PanthersFlorida State SeminolesLSU Tigers
Former Florida State defensive lineman Patrick Payton has accepted an invitation to the Carolina Panthers rookie minicamp, according to Matt Zenitz of CBS Sports. Payton, who started his career at FSU, spent the 2025 season with the LSU Tigers.
Payton had an excellent start to his career with the Seminoles, being named the ACC Defensive Rookie of the Year in 2022 after playing in all 13 games with 31 tackles, 6.0 tackles for loss, 5.0 sacks, one forced fumble, and three pass breakups. The Miami native was even better in 2023, finishing with 44 tackles, 14.5 tackles for loss, 7.0 sacks, 10 pass breakups, seven quarterback hurries, and two forced fumbles, earning honorable mention All-ACC recognition.
He was FSU's No. 2 pass rusher in those seasons, working across from Jared Verse, and was expected to take on a larger role in 2024. While he started all 12 games, he was not able to elevate his game and recorded 35 tackles, 11.0 tackles for loss, 4.0 sacks, and a blocked field goal. He transferred to LSU after the season, looking to restore his draft stock after the disappointing season.
Payton was unable to do so, starting all 13 games but finishing with just 34 tackles, 5.0 tackles for loss, 1.0 sack, and six pass breakups. He was ranked as one of the top players in the transfer portal when he signed with LSU.
He will now have a chance to show what he can do at the next level with the Panthers.
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Q&A
What were Patrick Payton's achievements at Florida State?
Patrick Payton was named the ACC Defensive Rookie of the Year in 2022 and earned honorable mention All-ACC recognition in 2023.
Why did Patrick Payton transfer from FSU to LSU?
Payton transferred to LSU to restore his draft stock after a disappointing final season at Florida State.
What is the significance of being invited to an NFL rookie minicamp?
An invitation to an NFL rookie minicamp is a crucial opportunity for players to showcase their skills and potentially secure a spot on an NFL team.
