Payton Turner

Payton Turner, born on January 7, 1999, in Houston, Texas, is a professional NFL player who plays as a defensive end (DE) for the New Orleans Saints. Turner, who stands at 6 feet 6 inches and weighs 270 pounds, embarked on his football journey at Westside High School in Houston, Texas. His college career took place at the University of Houston, where he competed in the American Athletic Conference, showcasing his skills and dedication to the sport. In the 2021 NFL Draft, Turner's professional aspirations came to fruition when he was selected in the first round as the 28th overall pick by the New Orleans Saints. Since making his NFL debut, Turner has proven to be a valuable asset to the Saints' defensive lineup. His rookie year set the stage for what has been a promising start to his professional career. Throughout his time with the Saints, Turner has demonstrated impressive defensive skills, contributing significantly to the team's performances on the field. His stats reflect his capability to impact games, with notable achievements in sacks, tackles for loss, and quarterback hits. For instance, in the 2024 regular season, Turner recorded 2 sacks, 3 tackles for loss, and 3 quarterback hits, alongside forcing 2 fumbles, which underscores his defensive prowess and ability to disrupt the opposition's offense. Beyond his individual performances, Turner's role in the Saints' defensive schemes has been pivotal. His ability to apply pressure on the quarterback and his defensive versatility make him a critical player for the team. Despite facing the challenges that come with a professional NFL career, including the physical demands and the need for constant adaptation and improvement, Turner has shown resilience and a strong work ethic. Payton Turner's journey from his early life in Texas to his college days at Houston and his ongoing professional career with the New Orleans Saints is a testament to his dedication, skill, and the promising future that lies ahead of him in the NFL.