When the Philadelphia Eagles selected North Dakota State quarterback Cole Payton in the fifth round of the 2026 NFL Draft, the expectations weren't incredibly high from the fan base, but they might have to be.
To some, Payton is seen as the future QB2 for the Eagles and even the future replacement for Jalen Hurts. Bleacher Report writer Brent Sobleski included Payton on his list of five rookie quarterbacks with predictions on how they would do, as he sees Philly's rookie doing well.
"As of now, the Eagles aren't moving past (Jalen) Hurts. The organization can't. A year from now, he can be released or cut post-June 1 and it would make some financial sense. At this point, it's impossible to deny the continued rumors of offensive discord emanating from that building. Furthermore, Tanner McKee is now in the last year of his rookie contract and could get an opportunity to start elsewhere once he hits free agency. Payton, whose physical profile matches (or betters) what the Eagles already have in Hurts, will develop over the next year or two, with the possibility of taking over the offense if he shows legitimate progress. Philadelphia's current setup is the ideal opportunity for Payton to supersede his draft status and eventually thrive in the Eagles' offense."
What can Eagles fans expect from Cole Payton early in his career?
Payton, early on, will be a lethal weapon in the Eagles' offense. He can be used everywhere at quarterback, running back, wide receiver, and tight end to really throw off defenses. Think Taysom Hill, but more athletic and with better passing skills.
The truth is that Payton will need time to develop as a quarterback in the NFL, since he has only 1 year of starting experience at North Dakota State. There are some things that new Eagles offensive coordinator Sean Mannion is going to have to work on with the young quarterback, and that stuff takes time.
It'll be interesting to see how they handle the quarterback position if the Eagles decide to replace Hurts in the next two years. Payton could end up being the guy, but knowing how general manager Howie Roseman works, they will most likely bring in competition at quarterback to push him.
Read more: Nick Sirianni was included on list that no Eagles fan believes to be remotely true
One thing is clear: Payton is in the perfect situation to develop and grow if the Eagles see him as the future franchise quarterback.
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