Payton, 23, is a redshirt senior who spent his entire college career with the Bison, contributing as a versatile dual-threat quarterback. He appeared in 52 games with 13 starts, throwing for 3,190 yards and 21 touchdowns against six interceptions, while rushing for 1,919 yards and 31 scores. A left-handed quarterback, he posted a 4.56-second 40-yard dash at the NFL Combine, ranking among the top performers in speed and mobility. Payton helped North Dakota State win two national championships during his tenure.
Analysts highlight Payton’s combination of size and athleticism but note limitations in arm talent and mechanics. He is viewed as a dual-threat prospect who may struggle with velocity to fit tight windows and timing against pro defenses, and he projects best as a Day 3 quarterback who could benefit from packaged plays to leverage his rushing ability until he proves more consistent as a pocket passer.
Arizona could pursue multiple quarterbacks in the draft, a strategy that could see them taking both Payton and Simpson. Simpson is viewed as a potential first-round or near-first-round talent, while Payton sits further down the board, creating a scenario in which the team adds more than one quarterback to its depth chart. The plan mirrors past moves in the league where teams draft multiple quarterbacks in a single cycle.
Meanwhile, Jacoby Brissett remains in the mix as the likely starter if no roster changes are made, but he is seeking a more secure, guaranteed-money contract. Brissett has reportedly missed the opening of Arizona’s offseason program amid the contract dispute, with the Cardinals expected to work toward a new deal while they assess their long-term quarterback options.
With three quarterbacks already on the roster, the Cardinals’ approach appears to be balancing immediate needs with long-term quarterback development, as they explore the draft and potential market moves to identify the franchise signal-caller of the future.
