UCLA’s Jordan Payton off to good start in Senior Bowl

Former UCLA receiver Jordan Payton got off to a good start at the Senior Bowl.

Payton will go into Wednesday’s workout after making several impressive catches in the first practice on Tuesday, including one on a long pass from former USC quarterback Cody Kessler.

“I’ve just got to be myself,” Payton said before Tuesday’s workout. “I think I’ve been coached by some of the best guys in the country. I just have to go out, play hard like I do, be charismatic and go get a win on Saturday.”

Last season at UCLA, Payton caught 78 passes, five for touchdowns.

He is on a North team roster that includes receivers Braxton Miller from Ohio State, Leonte Carroo (Rutgers), Chris Moore (Cincinnati), Aaron Burbridge (Michigan State) and Tajae Sharpe (Massachusetts). The North is coached by Jason Garrett and his Dallas Cowboys staff.

The message from coaches in meetings is similar to what Bruins coaches imparted, Payton said.

“Do the right things, be where you’re supposed to be, play hard and give everything you’ve got,” he said. “Basically the same thing we have at UCLA with Coach [Jim] Mora.”

Like all players, Payton has been through numerous interviews with NFL scouts. He said he welcomed the opportunities.

“It’s interesting to hear the questions they ask, along the lines of just about who you are and what type of player you are,” he said. “It’s cool to answer those questions. It’s fun for me.”