2023 NFL Draft Diamonds Scouting Report: Payne Durham, TE, Purdue

Payne Durham is an integral part of the Purdue offense, exhibiting the ability to be a sure-handed receiver and a blocker with good power. Hula Bowl scout Ryan Jaffe breaks down the strengths and weaknesses of Durham as an NFL Prospect in this article.

Player Data

Name, Jersey #	Payne Durham, #87
School (Code)	INPU
DOB, Class Yr	6/15/2000, RSSR
Height, Weight	6053, 260
40 Yd Dash	4.85
Arms, Hands	3358, 0958
Position/Depth	TE / Starter
Honors/Captainship	Honorable Mention All-Big Ten
Season Viewed (yr)	2022
Games Watched	NEUD, NYSY, MNUN
Scout Name / Date	Ryan Jaffe / 10/19/2022

Per Year Stats (Most Recent First)

2022	7 GP, 33 Rec, 310 Yds, 3 TD
2021	12 GP, 45 Rec, 467 Yds, 6 TD
2020	6 GP, 16 Rec, 166 Yds, 3 TD
2019	12 GP, 9 Rec, 82 Yds, 4 TD
2018	2 GP, no stats, redshirt

Player Summary:

Starting TE, RS Sr. Possesses elite height and good strength standing at 6’5” with a long slender frame. Primarily a Y-TE lining up on the LOS, putting his best skill sets to work in the run game, while also being a reliable pass catcher as well. In the run game, he is a raw talent, displaying major physicality, effort, and strength, however, lacking technique. From the snap, he is solid out of his stance, firing quick hands into oncoming defenders, however, displays lackluster hand placement. Does not rub his ribs or keep his elbows tight to get inside hands on defenders. Possesses ability to sustain blocks due to his strength, and effort, while keeping his legs churning. Displays ability to line up off the LOS, attached on S/Z, and create good impact and engagement to seal off the edge. In pass pro, he also displays the ability to engage and sustain blocks due to his strength and size, however, lacks technique, playing high without leverage. Gets too far over his toes, reaching and lunging for oncoming rushers and missing. As a pass catcher, he is unable to create separation against Man Coverage due to a slow release, lack of COD, marginal footwork, sub-par route creativity, and no sinkage of hips at the top of routes. He makes up for the lack of separation by being a sure-handed target. Demonstrates good hands while catching naturally and not fighting it. Attains a good catch radius while also being able to adjust to high/low balls. Displays ability to fight through contact with strong hands to make contested catches. Good RAC due to good field awareness and fighting for extra yards.

Scheme Fit:

Y-TE in a heavy run scheme with a lot of S/Z, and play action mixed in.

Power Statement:

Good blocker in the run and passing game due to his strength and physicality, while also being a sure-handed, big reliable pass catcher. If coached up on his technique, he could be of good use to a run-heavy NFL team.