Payton does have options, but what is the best option for the Miami native? Throughout his three-year career, Payton has recorded 109 total tackles, 16 sacks, 12 pass deflections and three forced fumbles.
There is still time for the 6-foot-5, 250-pound junior to figure out where he should go.
Underclassmen must declare for the 2025 NFL Draft by Jan. 6. The transfer portal closes on Dec. 28 for the winter and reopens on April 16-25.
While we await his decision, here are the three best scenarios for Payton.
Why Patrick Payton should stay at FSU football
There is nothing wrong with finishing what you started. Payton has remained loyal to Mike Norvell's program since signing to play at FSU in 2022.
Payton would provide veteran leadership for the second straight year while participating in changes made to the defensive staff.
It could be an opportunity for Payton to learn a new scheme and versatility for his skillset.
Payton would likely have to learn the linebacker position, but John Papuchis, who was shifted to the linebackers coaching role from his defensive end coaching role, could still coach him.
With Joshua Farmer and Marvin Jones Jr. departed, Payton can step up in the leadership role while continuing to boost his draft stocks. Payton has 11 tackles for loss, four QB hits, and a blocked kick.
Payton might have something to prove and would probably rather prove in garnet and gold uniform while playing go-around at Doak Campbell Stadium.
Why Patrick Payton should enter the transfer portal
FSU's defense is under new management under Tony White. The scheme has switched from 4-2-5 to 3-3-5.
Payton may not be cut out in that scheme and would prefer to look at options elsewhere, while the White and the defensive staff will be looking at other players in the portal who can play in the 3-3-5 scheme.
Payton should be a good get if he entered the portal because of his three-year production.
He made All-ACC in his sophomore year in 2023. His length and pass-rushing skillsets should have power-four teams look into the junior, even if he is a one-year rental.
Payton could also get more NIL deals from other teams and likely compete in a playoff-contending team, which he could've done on last year's team.
Why Patrick Payton should declare for the NFL Draft
Payton may not be a first-round pick, but he has done enough to earn the attention of NFL teams, who may consider drafting him in the later rounds.
You can never get enough pass rushers in today's league, and Payton knows whichever NFL teams are looking to draft him, he could step in and compete for a roster spot. Maybe on the right team, he could flourish, and many might now see it coming.
Payton must add weight if he is projected as a 4-3 defensive end, but he will likely look at linebacker, who needs to be versatile in the tackle box.
He is athletic and fast enough to play at the NFL level. He can also be involved in any team's front seven and special teams.