Payton Turner

Payton Turner (born January 7, 1999) is an American football defensive end for the New Orleans Saints of the National Football League (NFL). He played college football at Houston and was drafted by the Saints in the first round of the 2021 NFL Draft.

Early years
Turner grew up in Houston, Texas and attended Westside High School, where he played basketball and football.

College career
Turner was a member of the Houston Cougars for four seasons, starting his final three years. He was a member of the Cougars' pass rush rotation during his freshman year and finished the season with 14 tackles, one sack and one interception. His sophomore season ended prematurely due to a foot injury. As a senior, Turner was named second team All-American Athletic Conference after recording 25 tackles, 10.5 for a loss, with five sacks in five games played, missing two games due to injury and opting out of the New Mexico Bowl. After the season, Turner played in the 2021 Senior Bowl.

Professional career
Turner was drafted by the New Orleans Saints in the first round (28th overall) of the 2021 NFL Draft. He signed his four-year rookie contract with New Orleans on June 8, 2021. On November 11, 2021, Turner was placed on injured reserve with a shoulder injury.

On September 13, 2023, Turner was placed on injured reserve after suffering from a turf toe injury in the season opener against the Tennessee Titans. He was activated on January 5, 2024.