
Donald Payne
LB - FA
2025 Outlook
Availability
Donald Payne continued his fantastic play against the Raiders, registering 11 solo tackles, two assisted tackles, and a pass defended in a 20-16 loss.
Fantasy Impact
Payne has been absolute machine Weeks 13-15, averaging just under 14 tackles per game. Though his fantasy value is completely buoyed by this singular stat, he will be a viable IDP for your team now that Myles Jack is on the IR. He and the Jaguars play the Falcons next weekend.
Donald Payne had a big game for the second consecutive week, posting eight solo tackles and eight assisted tackles in a 45-10 blowout loss to the Chargers.
Fantasy Impact
Payne has been an absolute machine as Myles Jack's replacement, totaling 29 tackles in the last two games. He is deserving of more playing time even if Jack returns next week, but he'll get another boost in fantasy value should Jack need more time to recover. Monitor the situation before making a decision on the Jags linebacking situation.
Donald Payne had the best individual performance as a pro this past Sunday, posting six solo tackles, seven assisted tackles, one TFL, one sack, and one QB hit, though the Jags lost to the Bucs, 25-11.
Fantasy Impact
With star linebacker Myles Jack out with a knee injury, Payne did an admirable job filling in. His game today provided firsts in several categories, a surprise considering he hadn't done much in his three-year career. Though he might be a speculative add heading into a Week 14 game against the Chargers, it might be best to wait until more is heard about Jack before making a move. Even then it will be hard to trust someone with a non-existent track record.