Kansas State Star Safety VJ Payne Announces Passing of Beloved Uncle
MANHATTAN, Kan. – Kansas State Wildcats football standout safety VJ Payne announced today the passing of his beloved uncle, whose name has not been publicly disclosed at the family’s request. The news was shared through a statement released by Payne’s representatives, who asked for privacy as the family navigates this difficult time.
Payne, a four-year letterman for the Wildcats from 2022 to 2025, was a cornerstone of the program’s defensive unit. Over his collegiate career, he appeared in 52 games with 42 starts, compiling 207 total tackles, 11.5 tackles for loss, and four interceptions. Known for his explosive speed and hard-hitting physicality, he was a key playmaker who earned All-Big 12 Honorable Mention recognition in 2024.
He was also a crucial contributor to the Wildcats’ 2022 Big 12 Championship team, becoming the first true freshman defensive player to start a season opener since at least 1988 and logging four tackles in the title game victory over TCU at AT&T Stadium. In his senior year, he started all 13 games, finishing second on the team with 64 tackles and earning an invitation to the 2026 East-West Shrine Bowl, one of college football’s longest-running all-star games.
“VJ’s uncle was a guiding force in his life, supporting his football journey from his high school days at Buford (Ga.) High to his success at Kansas State,” the statement read. “He was not only a family member but a mentor who instilled in VJ the values of hard work, resilience, and compassion that defined his career on and off the field.”
Kansas State head coach Chris Klieman expressed his support for Payne and his family in a separate message. “Our entire program is heartbroken for VJ and his loved ones,” Klieman said. “His uncle played an instrumental role in shaping the young man and leader we know today, and his impact will be felt within our Wildcat family for years to come.”
The family has not yet announced funeral arrangements, but noted that donations in lieu of flowers can be made to a charity focused on youth sports development, a cause close to the uncle’s heart.
Payne, who is preparing for the upcoming NFL Draft, has requested that well-wishers honor his uncle’s memory by supporting community initiatives that empower young athletes.
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