The 2026 NFL Draft is buzzing with excitement, especially in Pittsburgh, where the Steelers are eyeing potential prospects. One name generating a fair bit of chatter is Cole Payton, a quarterback from North Dakota State. In a draft class that’s not exactly overflowing with quarterback talent, Payton is emerging as a sleeper worth watching.
Getting to Know Cole Payton
- Position: Quarterback
- Class: Fifth-year senior
- Size: 6’3, 232 pounds
- Age: 23
- Projected Draft Round: 5
Payton has been climbing the draft boards, capturing attention as this year’s small-school standout. He spent five years with the Bison, finally taking the reins as a starter in 2025.
His performance was solid, completing 72% of his passes for 2,719 yards, 16 touchdowns, and four interceptions. Not just a passer, Payton added 777 rushing yards and 13 touchdowns on the ground, showcasing his dual-threat capability.
Built like a tank at 6’3 and 232 pounds, Payton is tough to tackle. While he might not be the quickest, his long strides and ability to read blocks make him a formidable runner.
His passing game, however, is a bit of a mixed bag. Despite his potential, his arm strength and mechanics raise questions.
His throwing motion is elongated, and he doesn’t fully engage his lower body, affecting the zip on his passes. Yet, when he’s on, the ball comes off his wrist with impressive speed.
Payton’s deep ball has its moments, showing flashes of great placement. However, his high completion percentage was somewhat padded by an offense that provided easy options and his own rushing prowess. His accuracy, while generally a strength, sometimes falters on deep and crossing routes.
In terms of decision-making, Payton can be slow through his reads and quick to run. But given his success on the ground, it’s understandable.
The leap to the NFL will be significant, though. When in sync, he shows good ball placement and timing, particularly on intermediate throws.
His playmaking ability, especially on the run, is electrifying, though it remains to be seen how it translates to the NFL’s faster pace and tighter windows.
Strengths:
- Strong, durable build
- Effective dual-threat capability
- Hard to tackle with good speed and vision
- Shows potential with deep throws
- Good timing on intermediate routes
- Playmaking ability off-platform
Weaknesses:
- Inconsistent arm strength and mechanics
- Limited starting experience
- Needs development in reading defenses
What the Experts Say
- Lance Zierlein, NFL.com: Describes Payton as a dual-threat with size, but notes his mechanics need work. He sees Payton as a QB3 who will need tailored plays to leverage his rushing ability.
- **Gerald J.
Huggins II, Sports Illustrated:** Suggests Payton’s success hinges on refining his mechanics and finding the right system. He sees him as a potential fit in a spread or West Coast system.
- Damian Parson, Bleacher Report: Highlights Payton’s football IQ and ability to identify blitzes, but emphasizes the need for consistency in processing defenses. Compares him to Jalen Hurts in terms of potential.
Potential Fit with the Steelers
While Payton may not scream “franchise quarterback” just yet, he offers intriguing potential, especially as a Day 3 pick. The Steelers, with 12 picks in 2026, could see value in his unique athleticism and potential upside. If they can refine his mechanics, Payton could be an exciting addition with the versatility to fill multiple roles, akin to a Taysom Hill-type player.