The Arizona Cardinals and the 2026 NFL Draft
The Arizona Cardinals are gradually positioning themselves for the 2026 NFL Draft, with clear signals that they will be in the market for a quarterback at some point. While the exact path the team will take remains uncertain—ranging from a first-round trade-up to selecting a late-round prospect—the focus has primarily been on names like Ty Simpson and Drew Allar.
However, there’s another name that should not be overlooked: Cole Payton, the North Dakota State quarterback who has caught the attention of the Cardinals this draft cycle.
Cole Payton’s Scouting Profile
Cole Payton is a dual-threat quarterback who possesses a solid physical frame at 6’2″ and 232 pounds. His arm strength is notable, but his lack of experience as a starter at the FBS level raises questions about his potential as a pocket passer.
According to Dane Brugler, an NFL Draft analyst from The Athletic, Payton is “green and will require patience, but he’s a dynamic dual-threat quarterback.” His physical tools and competitive nature make him a promising developmental prospect.
Despite his talent, Payton only has one season of starting experience at the FBS level. This limited exposure makes him a more speculative pick compared to other prospects who have already demonstrated their ability to perform under pressure.
The Cardinals’ Approach
For many fans, the ideal scenario would involve finding an immediate plug-and-play quarterback, which could come through a selection like Ty Simpson on Day 1 or early Day 2. However, Payton does not fit this mold.
Instead, Payton could serve as a late-round pick that allows the Cardinals to explore his upside without committing significant resources. This approach aligns with the idea of developing a quarterback over time rather than rushing into a high-stakes decision.
Cardinals head coach Mike LaFleur recently highlighted the challenges of transitioning from college to the pros, noting that “the college game and the pro game are just so different.” He also emphasized the importance of evaluating where a player came from and the level of competition they faced.
Could Payton Be the Answer?
Whether Payton can evolve into a promising quarterback remains to be seen. The talent and upside are present, but the concerns surrounding his overall body of work cannot be ignored.
The Cardinals have had extensive meetings with Payton this draft cycle, indicating that he is being seriously considered. If they decide to take him, it could signal a shift in their approach to quarterback development.
This move could potentially change the narrative around the team’s plans for the future. Instead of focusing solely on immediate solutions, the Cardinals might be looking to build a long-term foundation by investing in a player with high potential.
Conclusion
As the 2026 NFL Draft approaches, the Arizona Cardinals are weighing their options carefully. While the spotlight may be on more established prospects, Cole Payton represents an intriguing possibility. Whether he becomes a key part of the team’s future remains to be determined, but his presence in the conversation highlights the depth of talent available in this year’s draft class.
