"I feel like every year there is one quarterback in the NFL Draft who comes out of nowhere with traits that make draft experts drool. This draft cycle I found one quarterback not many draft experts are talking about, which is strange to me. He has all the traits wanted in an NFL quarterback, but no one is talking about him. Cole Payton from North Dakota State is a tantalizing prospect, but has a small resume."
"What makes Cole Payton interesting to me is that I didn't go searching for him. He just kept popping up. Senior bowl recap? There he is. FCS postseason list? Guess who. Draft chatter? Not so much. At some point, everyone needs to get away from the big names and look at these small school prospects for developmental players. When He Got the Job at NDSU, He Didn't Waste It Payton's college path isn't normal."
Cole Payton is a North Dakota State quarterback who combines NFL-desirable traits with limited exposure and a short starting resume. He drew attention at the Senior Bowl and on FCS postseason lists despite not coming from a blue‑chip program. Payton did not become the NDSU starter until the 2025 season after a 2021 redshirt year in which he played three games, completed 1-of-3 passes, and rushed eight times for 78 yards and two touchdowns. In 2022 he served as the backup in 13 games, rushed 38 times for 284 yards and two touchdowns, added passing work, and earned MVFC and academic honors.
Read at Inside The Star
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