In 1996, Payne, then an assistant with the Ottawa Rough Riders, was promoted to head coach. He coached the team to a 3–11 record; the team finished the year 3–15. The Rough Riders ceased operations after the season and Payne became the final coach in the 120-year history of the team. On November 18, 1997, the New York CityHawks of the Arena Football League named Payne offensive coordinator.