Interview: 2018 Texas JUCO SS Keeshawn Payne Aiming for All-American Caliber Season
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
The win-loss column may not have shown it last year, but Cisco College was loaded with talent on defense during the 2016 season. The junior college program suffered through an 0-9 season but had talents on the roster like linebackers Solomon Hunter, Elijah Timarky, Edd Hardeman and defensive end/outside linebackers Michael Clemons and Sidney Murray. The secondary had All-American DeAnthony Lee and if things go right in 2017 will have another All-American caliber safety in Keeshawn Payne.
Payne was a do-everything kind of talent out of Warren High School (San Antonio) before matriculating to Cisco College. During his true freshman season at the JUCO level, Payne had an estimated 48 tackles, two tackles for a loss, a fumble recovery, and a pick-six. The 6-1, 200 pound, athlete even showcased his all-around abilities lining up at quarterback completing a 33-yard pass for the Wranglers.
A new staff has all the players on the Wranglers roster excited about what could be in the 2017 season, especially Payne. The goal for every JUCO player is to showcase their abilities so the dream of playing at the next level is made real, Payne is no exception. The December graduate is ready to crack some helmets, pickoff some passes, and demonstrate his immediate impact potential for a Division-I roster during his sophomore season. During the 2017 season, Payne will lineup at strong and free safety and in the box as a rover and nickel back, and may even get some opportunities on offense to help draw the recruiting spotlight his way a little bit more.
In a Recruiting News Guru exclusive interview, I sat down with Payne covering his freshman season and spring practices with a look ahead to the 2017 schedule.
Interview
Keeshawn, you were the definition of an athlete for Cisco last year playing on both sides of the ball, but shockingly at safety and quarterback. What was the experience like playing some quarterback last season?
“I liked it a lot. That gave me an opportunity to make more plays, it was fun.”
Will you line up in the pocket again in 2017?
“I don’t think so. I’m not sure. I do have a chance of playing offense this season but not at quarterback.”
What areas of your game improved the most as a safety during your freshman season?
“My IQ and knowledge of the game improved the most. I learned a lot about coverages and about offenses. It was a big transition but I got on it fast.”
Who was the toughest running back or receiver you went up against in 2016?
“There is competition all around at the JUCO level. No one stood out to me but there was talent everywhere.”
Which game was your best last season?
“My best game was against Arkansas Baptist. The NEO (Northeast Oklahoma) game was one of my best too.”
Entering spring practices, what were some of the areas of your game you focused on improving?
“My footwork and my speed on the field. Everything and anything I can work on has been my focus.”
How has your game gotten better since last season?
“Staying patient, reading my keys, and not trying to be the superhero player. I’ve been focused on doing my job and trusting my teammates.”
Have you run a 40-yard dash this off-season?
“Yes, sir. I ran a 4.52.”
Your spring reel shows you playing in the box a lot as a rover/nickel, how will you be used on defense with Cisco during your sophomore season?
“As you said, as a rover and nickel coming down in the box and on some blitzes. I’m basically a come-down safety.”
Are you getting any recruiting interest heading into your sophomore season?
“The only one I know about now is New Mexico State.”
When do you graduate?
“In December.”
What goals have you set for yourself during your sophomore year?
“My goals are to be a team player and be a standout player. I want to be an All-American. If I can play at an All-American level, the rest will take care of itself.”
Is there a game on the schedule you are looking forward to playing?
“All of them to be honest. Not just one game but all of them.”
What motivates you on the field?
“I play for the people that cannot play football. I play for them. I dedicate my game to them. That keeps me going.”
How do the Wranglers look based of spring and summer practices heading into the 2017 season?
“We have a new coaching staff and a new team, I think we look very good going into the season.”
Keeshawn, thanks for your time today and good luck with fall camp.
“Thank you.”
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Photo credit: Twitter; No. 28 Keeshawn Payne (2016).