Cole Payton Drafted 178 Overall to the Philadelphia Eagles

FARGO (KVRR) – Cole Payton adds his name to the list of Quarterbacks drafted from North Dakota State University.

The Philadelphia Eagles selected Payton with the 178th pick of the 5th round Saturday.

After backing up Cam Miller early in his career, Payton started all 13 games in the 2025-26 season for NDSU. He passed for 2,719 yards and 16 touchdowns to 4 interceptions. He also rushed for 777 yards and 13 TD. The Bison ended the season with a 12-1 record.

In his career, Payton played in 52 games, making 13 total starts at quarterback (all during his senior year). He completed 70% of his passes for 3,188 yards and 21 touchdowns to 6 interceptions. He also rushed for 1,918 yards and another 31 touchdowns on the ground.

Payton joins the following NDSU quarterbacks in the NFL:

• 2016 – Carson Wentz (No. 2 overall) | Philadelphia Eagles
  • Spent 2025-26 season with the Minnesota Vikings
• 2019 – Easton Stick (5th round, 166 overall) | Los Angeles Chargers
  • Spent 2025-26 season with the Atlanta Falcons
• 2021 – Trey Lance (No. 3 overall) | San Francisco 49ers
  • Spent 2025-26 season with the Los Angles Chargers
• 2025 – Cam Miller (6th round, 215 overall) | Las Vegas Raiders
  • Spent 2025-26 season with the Las Vegas Raiders; ended season on the Miami Dolphins