Cole Payton

Cole Payton projects as a mid-round developmental quarterback with NFL-caliber arm talent and processing ability, likely landing in rounds 4–7 depending on pre-draft evaluation. His defining traits include above-average decision-making, functional mobility, and the ability to manipulate defenses within structure—assets that translate to the next level despite his FCS pedigree. Teams seeking a backup with starter upside or a project QB in a patient system will view Payton as a reasonable investment, particularly if medical clearance is clean and his mobility measurables check out at the combine.

Limited athleticism—particularly below-average foot speed and lateral agility—raises durability concerns in the NFL and severely restricts his upside as a scrambling threat or improviser. His competition level at NDSU, while credible, means meaningful developmental time will be required before consistent NFL-level performance emerges, creating extended dead-cap risk. Medical history and durability at the FCS level require thorough vetting, as injury patterns or chronic issues could further compress an already narrow ceiling.