UCLA Football: Jordan Payton Considering Entering the Draft?

It may not come as a surprise after Jordan Payton's excellent junior season, but according to draftinsider.net, Jordan Payton is exploring the NFL Draft as an option.

I’m told receivers Jordan Payton of UCLA ... will enter the draft.

Payton was the favorite target of Brett Hundley this season registering 63 receptions for 896 yards and 7 scores. Perriman had an up and down season posting 41 receptions for 906 yards (22.1yd average) and 9 scores.

Of course, at this point much of this may be speculation, but it would be safe to suspect that the opportunity is at least being explored by Payton.  And really, who could blame him.  Payton not only led the Bruins in all receiving categories last year, but he's shown significant growth over the course of his career.  As a freshman, he caught 18 balls for 202 yards and a touchdown.  The numbers increased to 38/440/1 as a sophomore, and he exploded as a junior with 41/906/7, including huge games against Texas, Arizona St., and Arizona.  He will also almost certainly be losing his quarterback to the draft.

If Payton does move on to the NFL, he has the tools to translate.  He has great size at 6'1 213 lbs., runs sharp routes, and is tough in running after the catch.  He would definitely leave a void in our receiving corps, but it would also provide an opportunity for Devin Lucien, Eldridge Massington, Alex Van Dyke, Austin Roberts, and others.  Whatever Jordan decides to do, let's all wish him luck.

Go Bruins!