Former Alouette Payton eyes return to CFL

A former Alouettes running back with one of the most famous pedigrees in the sport could make a return to the Canadian Football League this season, The Gazette has learned.

Jarrett Payton, Montreal’s leading rusher in 2007, appears to have attracted the interest of at least two CFL teams, Winnipeg and Toronto. According to a source, the Blue Bombers are considering flying him in for a workout. The Argonauts, according to the source, also have expressed interest in looking at the son of legendary Chicago Bears running-back Walter Payton.

“I’m interested in playing for anyone who needs a running back,” Payton said, remaining vague. “But you look at two teams and I see the need. I have a couple of years left … good years.”

Payton was general manager Jim Popp’s prized signing in 2007, Popp’s only season coaching Montreal. Once the Als released Robert Edwards, Payton replaced him, gaining 852 yards in 13 games while scoring eight touchdowns. But the team had a poor 8-10 record under Popp.

Popp was replaced as head coach last season by Marc Trestman. Payton, who missed most of training camp with an ankle injury, was released in early July.

“People thought I was hurt, or that I’m still hurt. That’s not true,” said Payton, 28. “I’m ready to play.”

Although Payton said his agent has been in contact with both Winnipeg and Toronto, Texas-based Lance Riddle was reluctant to talk, other than admitting a “couple of teams” are interested. Neither Mike Kelly, the Bombers’ GM and head coach, or Argos GM Adam Rita returned messages.

The Bombers, scheduled to conduct two more free agent camps shortly, have Joe Smith and Fred Reid returning to the offensive backfield. Smith is more of a power back, much like the 6-foot, 218-pound Payton.

Payton could have more luck cracking Toronto’s roster, where five players are returning but only two, Jamal Robertson and Da’shawn Thomas, are imports. Also, the Argos’ new head coach, Bart Andrus, coached Payton in NFL Europe, at Amsterdam.

“I feel confident, but it’s not up to me. It’s up to somebody else to see if I’m ready,” Payton said. “I know I am. I’ve worked my butt off since I left Montreal, keeping myself ahead of the curve.

“All I want to do is play.”

Payton might still be playing for the Als had Popp remained head coach. But Trestman decided on the diminutive Avon Cobourne, who remained patient for two seasons waiting his opportunity. The 5-foot-8, 193-pound Cobourne, a slashing scat-back, didn’t disappoint, gaining 950 yards in only 12 games. Cobourne was third in the CFL in rushing. He undoubtedly would have challenged Calgary’s Joffrey Reynolds (1,310 yards) for the rushing crown had he remained healthy.

“New coaches come in. They have what they want. Maybe I didn’t fit into the puzzle,” Payton said. “They did well.”

Back home in Chicago, Payton started a line of clothing and shoes last year along with recently getting married. He said there’s also talk of producing a movie on his late father.

(montrealgazette.com)