Cole Payton
Full Name: Cole Payton
Date of Birth: June 21, 2003
Age (as of May 2025): 21
Hometown: Omaha, Nebraska
High School: Westside High School (Omaha, NE)
Current School: North Dakota State Bison football
Conference: Missouri Valley Football Conference (FCS)
Academic Major: Not publicly disclosed
Years at School: Entering 4th year (Senior class standing in 2025)
Transfer History: None
Redshirt Status: Utilized developmental year
Eligibility Remaining: One season (2025)
FootBall Information
Position(s) Played: Quarterback, Offensive Package Runner
Primary Position: Dual-Threat Quarterback
Pro Position Projection: Developmental Dual-Threat QB / Position-Conversion Candidate
Jersey Number: #5
Starter or Backup: Rotational QB with situational package usage
Team Captain Status: Not publicly disclosed
Games Played / Started:
2022: Rotational action (package QB)
2023: 15 games (limited starts; situational usage)
2024: 15 games (expanded role in offense)
Injury History: No major long-term injuries reported
Suspensions/Disciplinary Issues: None reported
Coach History:
Head Coach: Matt Entz (prior tenure)
Head Coach (2025): Tim Polasek
Offensive Coordinator: NDSU pro-style spread system staff
Physical
Measurements
Height: 6030
Weight: 220 lbs
Arm Length: pending combine
Hand Size: pending combine
Wingspan: pending combine
summary
summary
Cole Payton is a physically gifted, multi-role quarterback with legitimate athleticism and developmental passing upside. At 6'3", 220 lbs, Payton carries strong build density and above-average mobility, making him a versatile offensive weapon within North Dakota State’s pro-style run-heavy system.
Used early in his career as a situational runner and change-of-pace quarterback, Payton has flashed arm strength and movement-based throwing ability. His value stems from athleticism, toughness, and scheme versatility rather than polished pocket consistency.
The transition from FCS competition to NFL evaluation will hinge on his passing refinement, processing speed, and whether teams view him strictly as a quarterback or hybrid offensive weapon