Jason: While Payton played beyond expectations primarily within the Saints’ special teams units in 2024, he ultimately became the odd man out in Kellen Moore’s 53-man group after having a poor preseason. The nagging injury that has gotten him placed on IR was also a potential concern. Payton is a great young player with potential to be solid in the league, but the Saints obviously felt more confidence in fourth-round draft pick, Quincy Riley, and the development of second-year players, Kool-Aid McKinstry and Rejzohn Wright.
