Eagles eye QB prospect from Carson Wentz’s alma mater

The Philadelphia Eagles have been doing their homework at quarterback. That alone isn't surprising. It's this time of year. Every team turns over every stone. Still, one name quietly entering the conversation adds an interesting layer to the discussion: Cole Payton. If the school he played for sounds familiar, that's because it should.

Eagles Wire recently named Payton as a small-school player to watch in the NFL Draft. He is also the latest great signal-caller from North Dakota State Bison, the same program that once produced Carson Wentz. The Eagles took Wentz second overall years ago, and while his tenure in Philadelphia ultimately became complicated, it still included a pivotal role in delivering the franchise's first Super Bowl.

Now, the Eagles appear to be circling back to that same pipeline. Payton's résumé checks several boxes. He's a two-time FCS national champion and a 2025 Second-Team All-MVFC selection. He's a player who produced both through the air and on the ground.

During his most recent season, he accounted for nearly 3,500 total yards and 29 touchdowns, showcasing the kind of dual-threat ability that has become increasingly valuable in today's NFL. That part matters. Philadelphia's offense can truly flourish if built around mobility at quarterback. Payton's skill set aligns with that philosophy. He isn't being viewed as a Day 1 answer, nor should he be. This is about depth, development, and finding a player who can grow within the system, but there's a bigger picture here. With questions lingering behind the starter and long-term clarity still forming, adding a young quarterback late in the draft makes sense.

It's a low-risk move with potential upside, especially if the coaching staff believes they can develop him over time. History doesn't guarantee anything, but it does make this connection interesting. The last time the Eagles dipped into the North Dakota State well, it changed the franchise's trajectory. This time, the expectations would be different, but the intrigue could still feel familiar.