Eagles pick QB Cole Payton from North Dakota State in 5th round

The Eagles picked Cole Payton in the 5th round, following their past success with NDSU players. He is a dual-threat QB with good stats.
By Newsroom | Sports, NFL |

The Philadelphia Eagles have selected North Dakota State quarterback Cole Payton with the 178th overall pick in the fifth round of the NFL Draft. This move marks the Eagles' continued pattern of sourcing talent from North Dakota State, a route that previously yielded quarterback Carson Wentz. Payton, a left-handed dual-threat quarterback, participated in five events at the NFL Combine, measuring 6-foot-3 and 232 pounds.

Eagles go North Dakota State route again, select QB Cole Payton at 178 - 1

Payton, who waited until his fifth season to become a starter at NDSU, projects as a quarterback capable of contributing immediately through packaged run plays, with potential for development as a pocket passer. He was named to the All-MVFC Second Team and received multiple FCS All-American honors, finishing third in Walter Payton Award voting for the best FCS offensive player. The Eagles met extensively with Payton leading up to the draft, alongside the Arizona Cardinals and New York Jets, who also showed significant interest.

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Eagles go North Dakota State route again, select QB Cole Payton at 178 - 2

Background and Scouting Report

Payton is described as a mobile quarterback who throws well on the run with notable accuracy, despite unconventional mechanics. His athletic profile includes a 4.56 40-yard dash and a 40-inch vertical leap recorded at the NFL Combine. Last season, he registered 2,719 passing yards, 16 touchdowns, and only four interceptions. He also contributed significantly in the run game, rushing for 777 yards and 13 touchdowns on 136 carries.

While Payton is not viewed as an immediate successor to the Eagles' starting quarterback, Jalen Hurts, his selection could offer a strategic move to potentially lessen the physical demands on Hurts over time. Analysts suggest Payton could be a valuable developmental prospect, with some projections placing him as a third-round pick or even earlier, anticipating his name to be called on the second day of the draft. He is considered the fifth quarterback from NDSU to be selected in the NFL Draft.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why did the Philadelphia Eagles pick Cole Payton from North Dakota State in the fifth round of the NFL Draft?
The Eagles selected Cole Payton, a left-handed dual-threat quarterback, with the 178th overall pick. This continues their trend of drafting talent from North Dakota State, a school that previously produced quarterback Carson Wentz.
Q: What are Cole Payton's strengths as a quarterback?
Payton is known for his mobility, ability to throw accurately while on the run, and strong running game contributions. He recorded 2,719 passing yards, 16 touchdowns, and 4 interceptions last season, along with 777 rushing yards and 13 touchdowns.
Q: What does Cole Payton's selection mean for the Eagles' starting quarterback, Jalen Hurts?
While Payton is not seen as an immediate replacement for Jalen Hurts, his selection could be a strategic move to potentially reduce the physical workload on Hurts over time. He is viewed as a valuable developmental prospect for the team.
Q: Did other teams show interest in Cole Payton before the NFL Draft?
Yes, the Philadelphia Eagles met extensively with Payton before the draft. The Arizona Cardinals and New York Jets also showed significant interest in the quarterback.