Hard-working Payne impresses teammates

Incoming freshman wide receiver Phillip Payne didn’t take long to win over his new UNLV teammates.

They were impressed by his skill and work ethic during offseason training, saying the Western High School product could become a real force.

And coach Mike Sanford said he wouldn’t be surprised if that happens this season.

“From what I’ve seen so far, yes,” Sanford said after Monday morning’s newcomers practice at Rebel Park. “I think he had a tremendous summer. (Coaches) couldn’t watch him. Players said he did a great job with his weight-room work and running. He’s in very good shape and he catches the ball.”

Payne (6 feet 3 inches, 185 pounds) was listed as the state’s No. 3 recruit by Scout.com and the nation’s 70th best receiver by ESPN Insider.

He caught 28 passes for 689 yards as a senior at Western.

“I’m more in shape now,” Payne said, comparing his current condition to the summer. “I see other freshmen when they come out. You’ve got to get used to (the practice rigors), so I got used to it early.”

• ROSTER CHANGES — UNLV picked up its probable punter when El Camino (Torrance, Calif.) College transfer Brendon Lamers attended practice. He began his college career at Oregon.

Sanford said he expects to add other players in the coming days, but NCAA rules prohibit him from commenting until they arrive.

The Rebels have lost reserve defensive lineman Tim High, who transferred to El Camino. Walk-on tailback Jordan Ho-Ching did not to return because of financial reasons.

• AGGIES LOSE QB — Utah State, UNLV’s Aug. 30 opening opponent, lost its potential starting quarterback.

Jase McCormick, who was going to compete for the job, left the team. Now the job is down to Sean Setzer or Diondre Borel, though incoming freshman Exavier Johnson could be considered, according to The Salt Lake Tribune.

“Jase has had some major life changes, his focus is different and he’s not going to play football anymore,” Utah State coach Brent Guy said in a statement.

“He’s just going to stress his academics and graduate in December. We respect his decision, we know its been a difficult one for him and one that he has thought a great deal about.”

Contact reporter Mark Anderson at manderson@reviewjournal.com or 702-387-2914.