Reportedly: VJ Payne’s 23 MPH Speed Turning Heads in NFL Front Offices

When it comes to the safety position in the 2026 NFL Draft, few players offer the athletic profile of Kansas State standout VJ Payne. As draft analysts finalize their big boards, Payne has emerged as a "fast riser"—quite literally. During his senior season in Manhattan, Payne was clocked at a staggering top speed of over 23 miles per hour in practice, a figure that would rank him among the fastest players in the entire NFL. This elite speed, combined with his 6-foot-3, 206-pound frame, has scouts labeling him as a potential Day 3 steal with Day 1 athletic traits.

Payne’s journey at Kansas State was defined by longevity and high-level production. A product of Gainesville, Georgia, Payne played in 52 career games for the Wildcats, ranking him 11th in school history. Over four seasons, he racked up 207 total tackles, 10.5 tackles for loss, and four interceptions. His reliability was unmatched, ending his collegiate career with a streak of 41 consecutive starts. Scouts have been particularly impressed with his range on the back end of the defense, where his 4.4 speed allows him to cover ground from sideline to sideline with ease.

Beyond the physical metrics, Payne has won over NFL front offices during the interview process. Following a successful showing at the Senior Bowl and the NFL Combine, Payne’s "football IQ" has become a major talking point. "I showcased my speed, my length, and my intelligence on and off the field," Payne told reporters. His ability to diagnose plays before they happen was evident in his favorite collegiate memory: a game-clinching interception against Tulane during his junior year. This combination of mental acuity and raw physical tools is exactly what modern defensive coordinators look for in a versatile safety.

Rumors are circulating that the New England Patriots and several other AFC teams have identified Payne as a primary developmental target. His length and speed make him an ideal candidate for special teams coverage early in his career, with the upside to grow into a starting role in a zone-heavy scheme. Analysts suggest that while he is already a physical and willing tackler, his ceiling will be determined by how quickly he can adapt to NFL-style man coverage. However, with a PFF run defense grade that consistently ranked among the best in the Big 12, the floor for Payne remains exceptionally high.

As the draft approaches, the Kansas State product finds himself in a unique position. While he may not be a household name like some of the blue-chip prospects from the SEC, his tape shows a player who consistently performs in big moments. Whether he hears his name called in the fourth round or the sixth, VJ Payne is a name that NFL fans should keep a close eye on as a potential breakout rookie in 2026.