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2026 NFL draft: Arizona Cardinals met extensively with QB Cole Payton
TL;DR
The Arizona Cardinals are evaluating quarterbacks for the 2026 NFL draft, focusing on Cole Payton from North Dakota State, in addition to Ty Simpson from Alabama.
Key points
- Arizona Cardinals preparing for the 2026 NFL draft
- Extensive evaluation of quarterbacks
- Cole Payton from North Dakota State is a key prospect
- Ty Simpson from Alabama is also a focus
- Payton's size and athleticism make him intriguing
Mentioned in this story
North Dakota StateAlabama
Cole PaytonTy SimpsonArizona Cardinals2026 NFL Draft
The Arizona Cardinals are preparing for the 2026 NFL draft and have been evaluating all the quarterbacks. It appears they will draft one at some point. While all the attention has been on Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson and how the Cardinals seem to be the most likely team to get him, he is not the only quarterback they have done extensive work on.
According to NFL reporter Aaron Wilson, they have also taken a lot of time to look at North Dakota State quarterback Cole Payton.
The Cardinals were one of several teams with which Payton met extensively.
He is a very intriguing prospect because of his size and athleticism.
He is nearly 6-3 and weighs 232 pounds. He has speed and agility, running the 40 in 4.56 seconds and posting a 40-inch vertical leap.
He also has a strong arm and can make all the throws. He is expected to be a Day 3 pick. Analyst Todd McShay raves about him as a prospect.
If the Cardinals don't draft Simpson early, Payton might be an option later on to at least have in the quarterback room beyond 2026.
The Cardinals have one selection in every round, so keep an eye on where Payton goes and if he is available on Day 3 when the Cardinals pick in the fourth round.
Get more Cardinals and NFL coverage from Cards Wire's Jess Root and others by listening to the latest on the Rise Up, See Red podcast. Subscribe on Spotify, YouTube or .
Q&A
What teams are interested in quarterback Cole Payton for the 2026 NFL draft?
The Arizona Cardinals are among several teams that have met extensively with Cole Payton as they prepare for the 2026 NFL draft.
Why are the Arizona Cardinals considering Cole Payton as a quarterback prospect?
Cole Payton is considered an intriguing prospect due to his size and athleticism, which have caught the attention of the Cardinals.
Who is the likely top quarterback prospect for the Arizona Cardinals in the 2026 NFL draft?
While the Cardinals are evaluating multiple quarterbacks, Alabama's Ty Simpson is currently seen as the most likely top prospect for the team.
