The Detroit Lions are entering an offseason where they have numerous questions they must answer after a season in which they finished with a 9-8 record, and last in the NFC North.
With an offseason where they must look to get back on track, while they appear solid at quarterback with Jared Goff at the helm, they should be looking toward the future and find an upgrade from him.
One prospect that could catch their attention is North Dakota State’s Cole Payton where they can take a low-pressure gamble on a developmental talent in the upcoming NFL Draft.
Key Points
The Lions could start to look to move on from Goff as their quarterback.
Cole Payton could be a strong developmental option in the mid-to-late rounds.
Detroit’s draft philosophy aligns with taking calculated risks on high-upside players.
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Detroit’s front office, led by Brad Holmes, has strategically built a roster designed for both now and later. The current stability at quarterback gives them the flexibility to plan ahead without any urgency. This situation allows the Lions to draft and develop a player like Payton without immediate expectations or the pressure to fix a crisis.
Cole Payton is a dual-threat quarterback from North Dakota State, standing at about 6’3, 233 pounds. His 2025 college season saw him produce 2,719 passing yards, 16 passing touchdowns, just four interceptions, and a remarkable 777 yards and 13 touchdowns on the ground. He’s considered a mid-to-late round prospect, likely to be available on Day 3 of the draft.
A Fit for Detroit’s Draft Philosophy
The Lions have prioritized player traits, growth potential, and long-term upside in recent drafts. Payton matches these criteria with his size, mobility, and demonstrated efficiency running a pro-style offense at the collegiate level. Taking a shot at a quarterback like Payton in later rounds presents minimal risk with the potential for high reward, fitting seamlessly into Detroit’s developmental model.
How Cole Payton’s Stock Might Rise
Payton’s draft position is not set in stone. His performance at the Senior Bowl already started to raise his value, but he can raise it further at the NFL Scouting Combine. Measurable athleticism, especially when showcased next to FBS stars, might make him more than just a late-round flier.
The Value of Development Behind Goff
Drafting Payton wouldn’t signal the end for Goff, but rather provide an opportunity for Payton to learn and develop out of the spotlight. With time to adapt and no pressure to perform immediately, Payton could steadily transition into a reliable NFL contributor if the need arises.
Rather than waiting until an urgent need arises, the Lions can explore the future at quarterback now. Cole Payton’s blend of mobility, poise, and ascending draft stock makes him a potential hidden gem. Investing in his development could prove wise as the Lions look to maintain their competitive edge for years to come.
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