Payton Turner Bio
Payton Turner is an American professional football defensive end who currently plays for the Detroit Lions of the National Football League (NFL). Born on January 7, 1999, in Houston, Texas, Turner developed his athletic skills at Westside High School before becoming a standout college player for the Houston Cougars. The New Orleans Saints selected Turner in the first round (28th overall) of the 2021 NFL Draft. After four seasons with the Saints, he signed with the Dallas Cowboys in 2025 and later joined the Detroit Lions in 2026. Turner stands 6 feet 6 inches tall and weighs 275 pounds.
Early Life and Background
Turner grew up in Houston, Texas, where he attended Westside High School. During his time at Westside, he excelled in multiple sports, playing both basketball and football. His athletic versatility and physical frame laid the foundation for his future as a defensive end at the collegiate level. Turner’s early exposure to competitive sports helped develop the work ethic and discipline that would define his football career.
Path to the NFL
After graduating from Westside High School, Turner continued his football journey at the University of Houston. He joined the Houston Cougars as a freshman in 2017, participating in their pass rush rotation during his first year. His freshman campaign yielded 14 tackles, one sack, and one interception, demonstrating his ability to contribute immediately at the college level. However, his sophomore season was cut short by a foot injury, presenting an early obstacle in his development.
Turner bounced back strongly during his junior and senior years. He became a starter in his final three seasons with the Cougars. As a senior in 2020, he delivered a standout performance despite battling injuries, recording 25 tackles, 10.5 tackles for loss, and five sacks in just five games. His dominant play earned him Second-team All-American Athletic Conference honors. Following the season, Turner showcased his talents at the 2021 Senior Bowl, further solidifying his draft stock.
Payton Turner Career
New Orleans Saints (2021–2024)
The New Orleans Saints selected Turner with the 28th overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft, choosing him in the first round to bolster their defensive line. He signed his four-year rookie contract with the Saints on June 8, 2021, officially beginning his professional career. Turner worked to adapt to the faster pace and physical demands of NFL competition during his first training camp.
His rookie season encountered challenges when he was placed on injured reserve on November 11, 2021, due to a shoulder injury. This setback limited his inaugural NFL campaign and required him to focus on recovery and development. Turner continued working to establish himself within the Saints’ defensive scheme during the 2022 season, building chemistry with his teammates and coaches.
Another injury hurdle arose on September 13, 2023, when Turner was placed on injured reserve after suffering a turf toe injury in the season opener against the Tennessee Titans. He remained on injured reserve until January 5, 2024, when he was activated. The Saints subsequently declined to exercise the fifth-year option in Turner’s rookie contract on May 2, 2024, making him a free agent following the 2024 season. Throughout his tenure with the Saints, Turner accumulated 50 total tackles, 5 sacks, 2 forced fumbles, 1 fumble recovery, and 4 pass deflections across regular-season play.
Dallas Cowboys (2025)
On March 11, 2025, Turner signed a one-year contract worth $2.5 million with the Dallas Cowboys, joining his hometown team. This move represented a fresh start and an opportunity to contribute to a franchise with a storied football tradition. Turner aimed to stay healthy and make an impact in his new defensive end role with Dallas. Unfortunately, he was placed on injured reserve due to a rib injury on August 26, 2025, cutting short his debut season with the Cowboys.
Detroit Lions (2026–Present)
Turner continued his NFL journey by signing with the Detroit Lions on March 20, 2026, on a one-year contract worth $1.145 million. This move to Detroit provided him with another opportunity to demonstrate his abilities with a new organization. Turner joined a Lions defensive unit looking to build on recent success and contribute to their playoff ambitions.
Driving Style and Strengths
Turner’s physical tools make him a formidable presence at the defensive end position. His 6-foot-6 frame provides excellent length for disengaging from offensive linemen and disrupting passing lanes. Turner’s experience in various pass-rush rotations during his college career developed his technique and hand usage. His ability to play multiple techniques along the defensive line adds versatility to whatever defensive scheme he joins.
Notable Events and Milestones
Turner’s selection in the first round of the 2021 NFL Draft marked his most significant career milestone to that point. His Second-team All-AAC recognition during his senior season at Houston highlighted his dominance at the college level despite limited games played. Each of his moves through free agency has represented new chapters in his professional development, with the Lions representing his third NFL franchise.
Payton Turner Career Wins
Throughout his NFL career, Turner has contributed defensively for three franchises, accumulating key statistics while working to establish himself as a consistent performer. His sack production and ability to pressure quarterbacks remain central to his value as a defensive end. Turner’s career totals include 50 tackles, 5 sacks, and 2 forced fumbles at the NFL level.
New Orleans Saints Highlights
Turner spent four seasons (2021–2024) with the Saints, where he developed his professional skills under their defensive coaching staff. His most productive statistical seasons came during this tenure, with his 5 career sacks all coming in a Saints uniform. Turner worked through injuries during this period while contributing to a Saints defense that featured several other talented players. His time in New Orleans served as an apprenticeship at the NFL level, preparing him for expanded roles with future teams.
Other Wins and Performances
Beyond his NFL statistics, Turner’s collegiate career at Houston produced impressive numbers, particularly during his senior season when he earned All-AAC honors. His performance at the 2021 Senior Bowl helped raise his profile among NFL scouts and contributed to his first-round draft selection. Turner’s journey through three NFL organizations demonstrates his persistence and ability to earn roster spots despite challenges.
Payton Turner Family
Personal Life
Turner grew up in Houston, Texas, and attended Westside High School in his hometown. His connection to the Houston area shaped his early football development and eventually led to him playing college football nearby at the University of Houston. Turner maintains a public presence on social media, where he shares updates about his football career and personal life with his followers.
2025 Season Performance
The 2025 season marked Turner’s first year with the Dallas Cowboys after signing in March. He joined a Cowboys defense looking to improve upon previous seasons and competed for playing time along their defensive line. His tenure with Dallas began with strong expectations, as the Cowboys sought veteran depth at the defensive end position. However, the season took an unfortunate turn when a rib injury in August resulted in his placement on injured reserve, ending his 2025 campaign prematurely. Despite the setback, Turner remained with the organization as he continued his recovery process. His Dallas experience, though limited, provided valuable film and context for his next opportunity with the Lions in 2026.