x
Breaking News
More () »

New Jaguars LB Donald Payne found out he was claimed by Jacksonville while at the Ravens' facility

Rookie linebacker Donald Payne found out he was going to Jacksonville from an awkward source.

Aug 31, 2017; New Orleans, LA, USA; New Orleans Saints running back Travaris Cadet (38) makes a catch in front of Baltimore Ravens linebacker Donald Payne (58) in the second half at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome. Mandatory Credit: Chuck Cook-USA TODAY Sports

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. -- Linebacker Donald Payne was among the five players claimed by the Jaguars on Sunday.

When his claim went through, Payne wasn't informed by his representatives or the Jaguars. Instead, the undrafted rookie from Stetson University was told by his former employers at the Baltimore Ravens' headquarters.

"I actually went into the Ravens facility [Sunday] going there to sign my practice squad contract," Payne said.

"I walked in and one of the personnel guys said 'Donald, you want to know the good news or the bad news first?' I was like 'What's going on?' And he said 'The bad news is you're not going to be a Baltimore Raven, but the good news is you were claimed by a team. You were claimed by the Jacksonville Jaguars, so you're going to Jacksonville.'"

DOWNLOAD THE FREE FIRST COAST FOOTBALL FOR MORE JAGUARS COVERAGE

It's just the latest twist in Payne's football career. The college safety, who spent the entire draft process training as a defensive back, was asked to play linebacker when he arrived in Baltimore.

Payne has only been playing the linebacker position since May. The position change has added to a steep learning curve for the small school product.

"I always thought I could play with the people at the higher levels [like] the FBS and NFL levels, but it definitely a change for me coming from the FCS," Payne said. "People were definitely a lot faster, people are definitely a lot stronger, smarter as well. It took a little acclimating to it when I was up in Baltimore. I think I'm progressing very well and learning on the fly."

The 5-foot-11, 226-pound rookie produced 538 tackles during his college career. His ability to wrap up opposing players helped him convert to linebacker.

He played on the weak side for the Ravens, which allowed for him to use his quickness to make plays. In three preseason games, Payne produced 15 tackles and a forced fumble.

Despite those stellar numbers, Payne failed to make the Baltimore roster.

"I wasn't really surprised, my position coach kept it real with me," Payne said.

The Ravens decided to keep one less linebacker and planned to sign Payne to the practice squad. Instead, he will get to play on the Jaguars' active roster.

Jacksonville will continue to use Payne at linebacker. The rookie said he has grown accustomed to playing his new position.

"I like the WILL position," Payne said. "It's a little more free roaming. It's kind of like how I played in college was as a free roamer. I'm up to play WILL or MIKE. I think I can learn the defense fast."

Follow Mike Kaye on Twitter at @Mike_E_Kaye.

Listen to "Teal & Black Blitz with Mike Kaye and Mike DiRocco (Podcast) 9-4" on Spreaker.

Before You Leave, Check This Out