Pheldarius Payne Bio
Pheldarius Payne is an American professional football defensive end for the St. Louis Battlehawks of the United Football League (UFL). He was born on July 14, 2000, in Suffolk, Virginia. Payne played college football for the Lackawanna Falcons, Nebraska Cornhuskers, and Virginia Tech Hokies. After going undrafted in 2024, he signed with the Houston Texans and later joined the Indianapolis Colts before signing with the Battlehawks. His college career included playing in significant championship games, showcasing his potential as a valuable player in professional football.
Early Life and Background
Pheldarius Payne grew up in Suffolk, Virginia, where he attended Nansemond River High School. At Nansemond River, he played football and during his senior season was recognized as an All-District and All-Region selection. His performance in high school earned him a commitment to play college football at Lackawanna College.
Path to American Football
Payne spent two seasons at Lackawanna College, where he helped the team advance to the 2019 NJCAA National Championship Game. After his time at Lackawanna, he committed to play at Nebraska, flipping his commitment from North Carolina State after a visit to their campus. During his first season at Nebraska, Payne switched to playing outside linebacker and appeared in every game of the season. However, his second season was marred by an injury that sidelined him for part of the year. After two seasons at Nebraska, he transferred to Virginia Tech, where he faced another setback with a season-ending Achilles tendon rupture before returning to play in all 13 games during the 2023 season.
Pheldarius Payne Career
Early Career (2024)
After not being selected in the 2024 NFL Draft, Pheldarius Payne signed with the Houston Texans as an undrafted free agent. He 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 initially. Payne faced challenges with the Texans, being waived with an injury designation shortly after signing. He was re-signed by the Texans but was waived again later that summer.
Breakthrough (2024-2025)
On December 10, 2024, the Indianapolis Colts signed Payne to their practice squad, and he signed a reserve/future contract with the team shortly thereafter. However, he was waived by the Colts in May 2025. Following this, Payne signed with the St. Louis Battlehawks of the UFL on September 18, 2025, marking a significant step in his professional career.
Notable Works and Milestones
Pheldarius Payne’s journey through college football and into the professional ranks reflects his resilience and determination. His time at Virginia Tech, particularly his return from injury, has been a highlight of his career thus far.
Pheldarius Payne Award Nominations
Throughout his career, Pheldarius Payne has not yet received any notable award nominations, as he is still in the early stages of his professional journey.
Pheldarius Payne Awards Won
Pheldarius Payne has not yet won any awards in his professional football career, reflecting his ongoing development as a player.
Pheldarius Payne Family
Pheldarius Payne is the son of Phelton and Johnnetta Payne. His family has supported him throughout his journey in football, contributing to his development as an athlete.
Personal Life
While specific details about Pheldarius Payne’s personal life are limited, it is known that he won a Pop Warner National Championship in fifth grade, highlighting his early success in sports.
