He played college football for the UL Monroe Warhawks and was selected by the Chicago Bears in the fifth round of the 2007 NFL draft.
Payne's attended Junction City High School in Union County, Arkansas where he was a three-sport athlete.
After graduating from high school, Payne enrolled at the University of Louisiana at Monroe, joining the football team as a running back.
Payne struggled in his sophomore year as a running back while dealing with injuries.
Payne was once again named the starting Strong Safety his senior year, where he posted 98 tackles, 1 sack, and 4 interceptions.
Payne suffered a season-ending injury in the final preseason game against the Baltimore Ravens, tearing his PCL.
On July 29, 2011, Payne was signed as a free agent by the Carolina Panthers to a one-year deal.