1. He can have an impact wherever he's deployed

The 184cm utility originally made a name for himself down in Tasmania as a gutsy interceptor that uses his pace to rebound, but a move into the midfield/forward line this season has ignited his game. He's averaged 22 disposals, 5.8 tackles, 3.8 inside 50s and has kicked 12 goals across five Coates Talent League games this season with his best outing coming in an 81-46 win over Eastern Ranges when he booted four majors from his 29 touches.

2. He plays with an edge

North Melbourne's newest Roo is predicted to bring his competitive nature to Arden Street, having been identified in the mid-season draft build-up as a player that attacks the contest with aggression. "He brings a hell of a lot of energy … he gives 100 per cent effort every time he goes out there," Tasmania Devils boys coach Jeromey Webberley told SEN Tassie.

3. He's had to show plenty of resolve already

After winning the Tasmania Devils Talent League Boys best and fairest award last season, Payne was unlucky to miss out on being selected in the 2023 AFL National Draft but instead of taking a backwards step, he responded with a stellar start to 2024. "He got knocked back in the draft last year, where we thought he was a really good chance," Wynyard coach Beau Sharman told The Mercury. "When you put so much into something and you don't get a return for it, it's pretty natural for an 18-year-old to sit back and question the work you've put in, and why you're doing it. "He had a month or two to get his head around what he wanted to do, and once he decided he wanted to continue to have a crack at this, he's reaped the rewards for that."

4. He has experience playing with another young Roo

Although there'll be no shortage of new teammates to meet, one Roo that Payne is already familiar with is Rising Star contender Colby McKercher. The duo shared the field during their time with Tasmania in the Coates Talent League and will reunite in the royal blue and white stripes.

5. He's been on the tools while hunting his AFL dream

There's still going to be some early mornings for Payne, but instead of grinding away as a builder in Burnie he'll be plying a different kind of trade. The Tasmanian has been starting on the tools at 7.15am for a nine-hour shift, working his way through an apprenticeship before making his way to football training in the evening. "I am at work all day. 7.15am to 4.30pm is my normal day," Payne told The Herald Sun. "Then I knock off and head to footy training most nights. Because we are from Tassie we end up travelling a lot, so I sometimes get Fridays off to travel."