Gopher WR Logan Payne Signs with Seattle

Gopher receiver Logan Payne signed as a free agent with the Seattle Seahawks. Payne was quarterback Bryan Cupito's favorite target in 2006 as he led the team in receptions (59), receiving yards (804) and receiving touchdowns (9). Former Gopher tailback Gary Russell will reunite with teammate Matt Spaeth as Russell inked a free agent contract with the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Logan Payne was measured with a 39-inch vertical during the Minnesota pro day. He bench pressed 225 pounds 16 times, ran a 4.17 shuttle run and a 6.81 second cone drill. Payne ran a 4.61 and 4.58 40-yard dash.

Gary Russell rushed 164 times for 1,045 yards (6.4 yards per carry) and 18 rushing touchdowns in 2005, but was ruled ineligible for the 2006 season. He struggled in the 40-yard dash at the NFL combine in Indianapolis.