The Philadelphia Eagles have been known for spending NFL Draft capital on the quarterback position. Could they spend a pick on a unique QB prospect this year as well?
The Philadelphia Eagles are not planning to replace Jalen Hurts during the 2026 NFL Draft. Although, they do have a quarterback prospect on their radar who is unlike any other option in the entire class.
According to Aaron Wilson, the Eagles have met extensively with North Dakota State quarterback Cole Payton. The Bison’s QB started just one season for NDSU. Payton, a lefty, completed 71.2% of his passes for 2,719 yards, 16 touchdowns, and four interceptions last season. He also ran for 894 yards and 13 touchdowns with a 7.5 yards per carry average. His athleticism may actually entice pro teams more than his passing prowess.
North Dakota State @NDSUfootball quarterback Cole Payton visited #Steelers #Colts per source, and has met extensively with #Eagles #Cardinals #Jets per source. Payton completed 71.2 percent of his throws as a senior for 2,719 yards, 16 touchdowns, four Interceptions. Rushed for… pic.twitter.com/qWb2RxrBcp
“The profile is fascinating, with some comparing him directly to Taysom Hill. He measured in at 6-3 and 232 pounds, with a 4.56 40-yard dash, a 40″ vertical jump, 10'10" broad jump, and a 7.12 three-cone drill. That has prompted some to talk about him as a potential tight end or versatile weapon.” — Tyler Forness, A to Z Sports
As Forness notes, a position swap could happen down the road for Payton. As of now, he wants two try his hand at playing quarterback, but if push comes to shove and his best option at a length pro career is at tight end, that may have to occur.
Why would that matter for the Eagles? A designated tush push player and red zone weapon could bring legitimate value to the future of the Birds offense. Payton would fit that billing and help keep Jalen Hurts avoid any sort of freak injury on those type of plays.
Cole Payton has some of the most intriguing physical tools of any QB in the 2026 NFL Draft pic.twitter.com/kz1UMS9EbU
If Payton requires a pick on day two, I don’t think it makes sense for the Eagles. They have too many needs at safety, offensive line, wide receiver, and pass rusher to use one of those selections on a player like Payton. That being said, a day three pick spent on Payton’s potential would make more sense for a team who wants to contend in 2026 like Philadelphia. His versatility will catch the eye of plenty of teams.