St. Louis Rams Acquire Safety Kevin Payne from the Bears for a Future Pick

ESPN is reporting that the St. Louis Rams have acquired safety Kevin Payne from the Chicago Bears for an undisclosed 2011 draft pick. Payne was a backup in Chicago, but made four starts in 2009, in weeks 13-17. His first start of 2009 was against the Rams.

Payne stands 6'0'', weighs 212, is 26 years old, and was born in El Dorado Arizona. He hails from the University of Louisiana-Monroe, and was a 5th round draft choice (pick 167, 30th in the round) in the 2007 draft.  

Payne appeared in 32 games, with 22 starts, 195 tackles, 4 interceptions and 10 breakups during his short three years with the Bears. He has played both free and strong safety positions, but most often appears at strong safety.

Two events made Payne disposable for the Bears. The Bears selected hard-hitting safety Major Wright from Florida in the 2010 draft. The Bears also re-acquired Chris Harris in a trade with the Panthers. With these two events, Payne fell to the bottom of the Bears' depth chart. Several reports indicate that Payne had requested his release. Initial reports indicated that he would be granted that release, but the Bears garnered an opportunity to trade him instead.

Interestingly, both Payne and Harris are from Louisiana-Monroe, and Payne succeeded Harris at the Safety position at their alma mater.

Kevin on video:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5K8RfYayRT8

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qyx-G79Pp6g