Former Alabama defensive tackle Da’Ron Payne was drafted with the 13th overall pick in the first round by the Washington Redskins.
He’ll be reunited with former teammate Jonathan Allen on the defensive line. Linebacker Ryan Anderson is also a member of the Redskins’ front seven. Both just completed their rookie seasons.
@94YNE come on home baby!!!!
— RYAN ANDERSON (@Anderson_365) April 27, 2018
Payne was a two-year starter at nose guard and played heavily in Alabama’s defensive line rotation as a freshman. He and four teammates declared for the draft after their junior seasons in 2017.
Payne helped his stock with two forceful showings in Alabama’s 2017 postseason. He was named defensive MVP of the Sugar Bowl against Clemson and the national championship against Georgia.
He was named first-team All-SEC by both the coaches and the media this season. He was a second-team All-America selection by the American Football Coaches Association.
He finished his senior season with 53 total tackles, one sack, one interception and eight quarterback hurries. He picked off Clemson quarterback Kelly Bryant in the Sugar Bowl, then caught a one-yard touchdown pass on offense while playing fullback.
For his career, he finished with 102 tackles, including five tackles for loss, and three sacks.
Other Alabama draftees:
Minkah Fitzpatrick – 1st round, 11th overall, Miami Dolphins
Da’Ron Payne – 1st round, 13th overall, Washington Redskins
