Taysom Hill comparisons swirl as Cole Payton draws NFL buzz

The footage is gritty — a quarterback barreling through defenders one play, then dropping a tight spiral the next. It’s the kind of tape that makes scouts lean forward in their seats. And suddenly, a familiar name starts popping up in conversations: Taysom Hill.

As the 2026 NFL Draft approaches, North Dakota State quarterback Cole Payton is quietly becoming one of the most intriguing dual-threat prospects. Multiple teams, including the Arizona Cardinals and New York Jets, have reportedly spent extensive time evaluating him — not just as a quarterback, but as a chess piece.

How Events Unfolded

Interest in Payton didn’t come out of nowhere. Over the past year, the NDSU quarterback steadily built a reputation as a player who can do a little bit of everything — run, throw, improvise. Teams started noticing.

The Cardinals were among the first to dig deeper, reportedly holding extended meetings with Payton during the pre-draft process. Not long after, the Jets followed suit, doing what insiders described as “extensive homework” on the versatile QB.

What’s interesting is how teams are evaluating him. He’s not being boxed into a traditional quarterback role. Instead, scouts are asking a different question: how many ways can we use this guy on Sundays?

If you’ve been following the league, you can probably guess the comparison. Taysom Hill — the New Orleans Saints’ do-it-all weapon — has become the blueprint for players who don’t fit neatly into one position.

Under the Surface

The NFL’s interest in players like Payton says a lot about where the league is headed. Offenses are getting more creative, more flexible, and frankly, more unpredictable.

Coaches aren’t just looking for quarterbacks anymore. They’re hunting for matchup problems. Someone who can line up under center, motion out wide, or bulldoze through a defensive front on a short-yardage play.

Payton fits that mold. At NDSU, he showcased both physical toughness and decision-making — a rare mix that’s hard to teach. And while he may not project as a Day 1 starter, that’s not necessarily the point.

Here’s the thing — the league has seen this before. Players like Hill carved out roles by embracing versatility. Now, front offices are actively searching for the next version of that idea.

Voices & Opinions

He’s got that NFL-ready mentality. You can tell he understands the game at a deeper level.

Scouts have echoed similar sentiments, pointing to his adaptability and football IQ as key strengths. For teams like the Jets and Cardinals, that versatility could translate into immediate situational value.

Some analysts believe Payton’s draft stock could rise simply because he offers options — and in today’s NFL, options are everything.

Putting It in Perspective

For fans in the United States, this shift isn’t just theoretical. It’s showing up on the field every Sunday.

Teams are leaning into hybrid players more than ever. That means more creative play-calling, more unpredictability — and, let’s be honest, more fun to watch.

For Payton, the comparison to Taysom Hill isn’t just flattering. It’s a potential roadmap. If he lands in the right system, his impact could extend far beyond the traditional quarterback role.

That’s where the game is going — and teams know it.

Looking Ahead

The draft will ultimately decide Payton’s path. Most projections place him as a mid-to-late round selection, but his value might not show up on draft night alone.

What matters is fit. The right coaching staff. The right offensive scheme. The right willingness to think outside the box.

If that happens, don’t be surprised if you start hearing his name a lot more on Sundays.

FAQ

Why is Cole Payton being compared to Taysom Hill?
Because of his ability to both run and pass, making him a versatile offensive weapon.

Which teams are interested in Payton?
Reports indicate strong interest from the Arizona Cardinals and New York Jets.

Is Payton expected to start as a quarterback?
Not immediately. Teams may use him in multiple roles early on.

What makes dual-threat quarterbacks valuable?
They create matchup problems and allow offenses to be more unpredictable.

Where is Payton projected in the draft?
Most projections place him in the mid-to-late rounds.

Could he have a long-term NFL impact?
Yes, especially if used creatively in a flexible offensive system.