NFL Draft 2026 Scouting Report for NDSU QB Cole Payton

Damian ParsonFeb 9, 2026

Cole Payton is a developmental dual-threat quarterback with strong accuracy and experience running NFL/pro-style concepts. For a first-year starter, he plays with more nuance and attention to detail than expected.

The 6'3", 233-pound quarterback entered North Dakota State as a 0-star recruit in the 2021 class.

Payton appeared in 52 total games for the Bison as both a quarterback and running back. He projects as a backup quarterback with starting potential and a high ceiling if he gets nurtured properly.

Dame Parson is the lead host of the Locked On NFL Draft podcast. He also serves as co-host of the Scouting Room NFL Podcast alongside Daniel Harms.

Highlights

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Scroll down for the complete scouting report.

Where He Wins

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- Big, powerful quarterback and plus-level athlete. Adds an extra body in the running game, either on scrambles or designed runs.

- Throws a catchable ball with plus-level accuracy and placement. Good sense of layering passes over underneath defenders with the right amount of touch.

- Accurate passer on the move outside of the pocket. Eyes remain up searching for open receivers down the field.

- Strong football IQ for a player with his experience level. Identifies potential blitzing defenders and makes protection checks to pick up the free runner.

- Throws from a strong, wide base to generate the necessary power on throws. Ready to throw at the top of his drop with little wasted movement.

- Plays with a calm and poised demeanor inside the pocket with defenders closing in. Stands tall and will climb the pocket vertically to elude the pass rush. Confidently throwing from muddy pockets.

- Good arm strength to rip throws in the short and intermediate with good velocity. An under-control passer who rarely sprays the football inaccurately.

Areas of Improvement

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AP Photo

- Plays with a low hand carriage inside the pocket, which makes him susceptible to being strip-sacked.

- One season as a collegiate starting quarterback, and it was at the FCS level. Possibly will need time to marinate in the NFL before competing for a starting job.

- Has a tendency to stare down reads and not trust his eyes. Needs to find consistency with processing when reading zone defenders and letting throws rip.

- Leaves yards on the field when he hesitates to pull the trigger and rip throws in the middle of the field and up the seams. Needs to throw with more confidence.

- Does not fully incorporate his lower body into throws, leaves his back foot behind.

- Deep ball accuracy and placement leave a lot to be desired. He needs to find consistency to optimize his three-level passing.