Jets' latest Day 3 QB projection would be a gamble on Frank Reich's coaching

The New York Jets have been linked to many of the top quarterbacks in the 2026 NFL Draft, but they could decide to use one of their Day 3 picks to add a young signal-caller to the mix if they aren't sold on top players like Alabama's Ty Simpson in Round 1 or LSU's Garrett Nussmeier at some point on Day 2.

North Dakota State's Cole Payton, despite a lack of starting experience and questions about competition, has continued to stand out as an enticing Day 3 prospect despite the deluge of pre-draft fatigue tearing down other prospects.

ESPN's Ben Solak seems to be leading the charge for Payton to come to New York, as a recent quarterback-only mock draft exercise has the Jets using a fifth-round pick on him. While an inherently risky selection, Payton's ceiling might be enough to bat down any concerns about his ability to adapt to the pro game.

ESPN projects Jets will pick North Dakota State QB Cole Payton in NFL Draft

The southpaw Payton only has one year of starting experience, had inferior numbers to Cam Miller (who was picked in the sixth round of the 2024 Draft and was cut by the Raiders before appearing in a game), and struggled to end the season. Why on earth would the Jets even consider picking him? The traits.

Payton has a very impressive arm, and he is one of the best in this class at throwing deep balls down the sideline. Payton's playmaking with his legs was unstoppable against FCS competition, and his instincts should help that skill translate to the NFL level with a good deal of aplomb.

The Jets still need to bring in either a veteran backup quarterback or a young reclamation project with upside behind Geno Smith. Payton could slide into a QB3 role in that situation, all while eventually showing enough to convince the Jets he can be the long-term backup for the future.

Payton would be a high-upside pick with high bust potential, but that's par for the course when scouting both FCS prospects and Day 3 quarterbacks. Perhaps Frank Reich and Bill Musgrave can be the ones who can get the most out of Payton.