Pheldarius Payne

Pheldarius Payne (born July 14, 2000) is an American professional football defensive end for the Orlando Storm of the United Football League (UFL). He played college football for the Lackawanna Falcons, Nebraska Cornhuskers, and Virginia Tech Hokies.

Early life Payne grew up in Suffolk, Virginia, and attended Nansemond River High School. At Nansemond River, he played football and during his senior season was an All-District and All-Region selection. He committed to play college football at Lackawanna College.

College career Lackawanna College Payne spent two seasons at Lackawanna College.

Nebraska During his first season at Nebraska, Payne switched to playing outside linebacker and appeared in every game of the season. During his second season, he appeared in the first ten games before being sidelined by and injury.

Virginia Tech After two seasons at Nebraska, Payne transferred to Virginia Tech. He returned for the 2023 season and appeared in all 13 games for the Hokies.

Houston Texans After not being selected in the 2024 NFL draft, Payne signed with the Houston Texans as an undrafted free agent. Payne was also selected by the St. Louis Battlehawks of the UFL during the third round of the 2024 UFL draft, but chose not to sign with them.

He was waived by the Texans with an injury designation on July 17, 2024. On August 12, the Texans re-signed Payne. He was waived on August 27.

Indianapolis Colts On December 10, 2024, the Indianapolis Colts signed Payne to their practice squad. He signed a reserve/future contract with Indianapolis on January 6, 2025. On May 9, Payne was waived by the Colts.

St. Louis Battlehawks On September 18, 2025, Payne signed with the St. Louis Battlehawks of the United Football League (UFL).

Orlando Storm On January 14, 2026, Payne was selected by the Orlando Storm in the 2026 UFL Draft, reuniting him with his previous coach with the Battlehawks, Anthony Becht.

Personal life Payne is the son of Phelton and Johnnetta Payne. In fifth grade, Payne won a Pop Warner National Championship.