Payton Turner 2021 NFL Draft Scouting Report

Name: Payton Turner

Position: EDGE

College: Houston

Height: 6’5”

Weight: 270 lbs

Overall Rank: No. 50 overall

Position Rank: EDGE9

Strengths: One of the most improved players in the nation in 2020, Turner unfortunately missed games due to injuries and a positive Covid-19 test. His five starts though were impressive. He’s long and uses his length well to separate from blockers and create room to operate. A natural 4-3 defensive end, he has the first step to threaten blockers and the strength and quickness to counter it. We don’t see many 6’5” players with the lower body flexibility and bend that Turner has. A gifted athlete on a big frame that’s still growing, Turner has the potential to develop into a special pass-rusher.

Weaknesses: Pad height and leverage are the big takeaways from his film. His frame looks like he’s still growing into it and he hasn’t quite adjusted his knee bend to accommodate his height. Turner was the best football player on the field weekly and hasn’t had to develop counter moves or really a pass rush toolbox. He has limitless potential but there is a bust factor to his game if he doesn’t develop more tools and learn to harness his unique athleticism and length.

What I Love: Turner’s athleticism on his frame is very special. If he had more tape from 2020, there’s a good chance he would have played himself into the first round. Players who look and move like he does generally hear their names called on night one.

NFL Comparison: Matt Judon

Grade: 82/100

Position Specific Traits:

(key: +, ++, +++ positive scale | -, - -, - - - negative scale)

Athletic Ability: +++

Pass Rush Power: ++

Pass Rush Speed: ++

Run Support: +

Speed/Burst: ++

Strength: ++