North Dakota State has a knack for producing NFL-caliber quarterbacks. We've seen Carson Wentz and Trey Lance make their mark, and now Cole Payton is stepping up to the plate. His journey is unique, having started just one season, and while his mechanics might need some fine-tuning, the buzz around him is undeniable.
The Pittsburgh Steelers made their interest clear by sending quarterbacks coach Tom Arth and area scout Jim Ward to Fargo for North Dakota State’s pro day. Their focus?
Cole Payton. According to Alex Kozora of Steelers Depot, Payton was the main attraction for the Steelers' visit.
His quarterback coach, Jake Heaps, is confident in Payton's prospects, suggesting that the NFL is already well aware of his potential. Heaps even hinted that Payton could be a Day 2 pick, a sentiment echoed by ESPN draft expert Todd McShay, who ranks Payton as the third-best quarterback in this draft class.
It's not just Pittsburgh that's intrigued. Dom Izzo reported that representatives from 25 NFL teams attended the pro day, indicating widespread interest. The Steelers, still awaiting Aaron Rodgers' decision on his future, are actively exploring their options, and Payton is clearly on their radar.
Looking at Payton's stats from 2025, he threw for 2,719 yards with 16 touchdowns and only four interceptions. His mobility adds another dimension, as he rushed for 777 yards and scored 13 rushing touchdowns.
Under his leadership, North Dakota State achieved a 12-1 record, cruising through an undefeated regular season before a narrow playoff loss to Illinois State. Along the way, Payton earned second-team All-MVFC honors and set three school single-season records.
However, some scouts have voiced concerns. Lance Zierlein of NFL.com sees him as a potential backup, citing issues with mechanics and arm strength that might limit his effectiveness as a traditional pocket passer. Despite these concerns, the interest from 25 teams highlights the intriguing potential Payton offers, particularly with his dual-threat capabilities.
The Steelers, like many others, seem eager to see if Payton's athleticism can outweigh the technical critiques. It's a question that adds an exciting layer to this year's draft discussions.