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