Cole Payton NFL Draft Scouting Report: Why He's the PERFECT Mid-Round Developmental QB?

North Dakota State’s Cole Payton flashes dual-threat potential as an NFL prospect—could he become the next franchise quarterback? His rare combination of athleticism, powerful frame, and run-game versatility draws comparisons to Philadelphia Eagles’ Super Bowl champion Jalen Hurts. Payton’s explosive 4.56 40-yard dash and impressive vertical jump underscore his impact as a QB, while his accuracy and football IQ suggest a high upside for NFL teams searching for dynamic signal-callers. Host Damian Parson breaks down Payton’s draft profile, exploring his pros and cons, including concerns about hand carriage, lower-body mechanics, and deep-ball placement. Key topics cover Payton’s performance at the Senior Bowl, projected 2026 NFL Draft grade, and how his skill set fits modern offensive schemes. Will Payton’s athletic tools and poise translate to NFL success, or will he follow the path of Jake Locker? Tune in for expert insights and bold predictions on Payton’s future. Everydayer Club If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! TurboTax This year you’re getting a major upgrade — Intuit TurboTax now has in-person locations nationwide. Visit http://TurboTax.com/local to book your appointment today. FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Right now new customers can bet just five dollars and get two-hundred and fifty dollars in bonus bets if your first bet wins. Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started — Play Your Game.   Indeed Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast.   Betterhelp This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Sign up and get 10% off at http://BetterHelp.com/LOCKEDON.   FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.