There are some interesting questions being asked about the Philadelphia Eagles' newest quarterback, Cole Payton, after the team selected him in the fifth round of the 2026 NFL Draft.
Many wonder whether Payton is the eventual successor to backup Tanner McKee or if he will replace starting quarterback Jalen Hurts. ESPN Eagles reporter Tim McManus answered one of the questions about Payton as to when fans can expect to see him on the field.
"The Eagles' QB room is crowded, with Payton joining (Jalen) Hurts, Tanner McKee and Andy Dalton. General manager Howie Roseman has suggested he's not opposed to keeping four quarterbacks on the active roster. If that's the case, Payton will start out well down the depth chart. He has drawn some Taysom Hill comparisons and in theory could be deployed in short-yardage situations (tush push?) or as part of a play-design wrinkle to keep defenses off-balance. That's Payton's quickest route to playing. Otherwise, his time will be dedicated to developing behind the scenes."
Eagles fans shouldn't expect to see Cole Payton much in 2026
New Eagles offensive coordinator Sean Mannion will have some packages set up specifically for Payton, but the reality is they probably won't use him much. The 2026 season is more about Payton learning behind Hurts, McKee, and Dalton for the future.
Hurts will have the starter job for at least the next two years while McKee and Dalton are most likely only staying through the 2026 season before departing in free agency in the offseason. If Payton blows it out of the water in training camp, the Eagles could entertain trading McKee from the team.
Until then, Payton is most likely on the bench for the next two years learning, but should be used in the offense as a quarterback, running back, and tight end. He is a unique weapon who can add an element to this offense that the Eagles have not had in a long time. Payton might even be used on Tush Push as well if they wanted to.
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The Eagles have a fascinating prospect in the quarterback room that could be used in so many ways, so there's a chance he will play in 2026. Eagles fans shouldn't expect him to take a lot of snaps, though, just to make sure they are not rushing him on the field.
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