What are Cole Payton's college stats?

Cole Payton rushed for 1,840 yards and 31 touchdowns in college. In his 2025 starting season, he threw for 2,719 yards, 16 touchdowns, and 4 interceptions.

What is Cole Payton's potential role in the NFL?

Cole Payton's athleticism suggests he could fill an immediate utility role, with potential as a dual-threat quarterback, though his development into a starter or more than a career backup remains a question.

Home / Sports / Eagles Draft Surprise: QB Cole Payton, The Next Taysom Hill?

Eagles Draft Surprise: QB Cole Payton, The Next Taysom Hill?

Q: Who did the Philadelphia Eagles select with the 178th pick?

The Philadelphia Eagles selected North Dakota State quarterback Cole Payton with the 178th pick.

25 Apr

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Summary

Eagles draft North Dakota State QB Cole Payton at pick 178.
Payton, a dual-threat athlete, rushed for 1,840 yards and 31 TDs.
Scouts see him as a potential utility player or developmental backup.

Eagles Draft Surprise: QB Cole Payton, The Next Taysom Hill?

The Philadelphia Eagles have selected North Dakota State quarterback Cole Payton, picking him 178th overall. Payton, who started for just one season at NDSU, possesses a rare combination of size and athleticism, drawing comparisons to Taysom Hill.

During his five years in college, Payton accumulated an impressive 1,840 rushing yards and 31 touchdowns, with over 1,000 of those yards coming before his starting year in 2025. As a passer in 2025, he completed 72 percent of his passes for 2,719 yards, 16 touchdowns, and four interceptions, demonstrating strong arm strength and touch on deep throws.