Patrick Payton

Even though he's established as a special talent, Florida State defensive ends coach John Papuchis says Patrick Payton works like he's a reserve trying to crack the starting lineup every day in practice. "Pat, I think there are two elements that I've been really proud of Pat's growth and development," Papuchis said. "No. 1 is that he's working as if he's a backup. When he's out there, he's trying to be the best version of himself. He's not looking at it as 'I've already established my role in this program and just going to get through camp' – he's working. Secondly, he's taking on a leadership role within the unit, which is something he's never really been asked to do before because of some of the other guys who were in the room. But now, it's his room." Payton registered 12 sacks and 12 pass deflections in his first two seasons at Florida State. He came off an All-ACC performance in the 2023 season and was named the 2022 ACC Defensive Rookie of the Year.