Cole Payton Draft Grade | Round 5, Pick 38 | FanVerdicts

A+

Top 3%Pick Grade

Pick Context

Market Value

Steal

Position

QB · Premium Position

Decision Grade reflects market consensus at the moment of the pick. Teams often have private information the consensus does not.

Scouting Report

Big Board Rank: #158 · Day 3 Sleeper

Cole Payton enters the 2026 NFL Draft as a developmental quarterback prospect who showcased steady improvement throughout his three-year career at North Dakota State. The 6-foot-2 signal-caller led the Bison to two FCS Championship appearances, demonstrating exceptional pocket presence and football IQ within their pro-style offensive system. Payton's draft stock has risen steadily due to his accuracy on intermediate throws and ability to execute complex pre-snap reads, though concerns about arm strength and mobility against NFL-caliber pass rushers have kept him in the Day 3 conversation. His cerebral approach to the game and proven winner's mentality make him an intriguing developmental piece for teams seeking quarterback depth with upside.

Strengths

+Exceptional pre-snap recognition allows him to identify blitzes and coverage rotations, consistently getting the offense into favorable matchups through audibles and protection adjustments.

+Demonstrates pinpoint accuracy on intermediate routes between 8-18 yards, particularly excelling on comeback routes, dig concepts, and timing-based crossing patterns.

+Maintains excellent pocket presence and internal clock, stepping up in the pocket naturally while keeping eyes downfield even under pressure from collapsing edges.

+Shows advanced understanding of route concepts and defensive leverage, consistently placing balls away from defenders and giving receivers optimal catching angles.

+Exhibits strong leadership qualities and command of the huddle, earning respect from teammates through preparation habits and competitive drive during crucial game situations.

+Processes information quickly in RPO concepts, making correct reads on linebackers and safeties to determine whether to hand off or throw the bubble/stick routes.

+Delivers crisp, tight spirals with consistent ball placement on short and intermediate throws, rarely putting receivers in vulnerable positions over the middle.

+Demonstrates good decision-making under pressure, taking sacks rather than forcing throws into coverage when protection breaks down or receivers aren't open.

+Shows ability to manipulate safeties with eye movement and head fakes, creating throwing lanes by moving defenders away from his intended targets.

+Possesses natural timing and rhythm in the pocket, working through progressions systematically while maintaining proper footwork and base throughout his delivery.

Excels in red zone situations with touch passes and back-shoulder throws, showing particular effectiveness on fade routes and corner concepts near the goal line.

NFL Comparison: Gardner Minshew

Fan voting will be available once grades are published.

Fan Discussion

Live Chat

1 watching

Loading chat...

Cole Payton

Pick Context

Scouting Report

Strengths

Fan Discussion

Live Chat

Weaknesses