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Every NFL Draft produces a handful of selections that leave fans searching for answers. The Philadelphia Eagles’ decision to draft quarterback Cole Payton, on the other hand, inspired curiosity. That's especially true considering the depth chart already includes Tanner McKee and veteran Andy Dalton behind franchise quarterback Jalen Hurts.
Spending draft capital on another developmental signal-caller, in some circles, can seem somewhat puzzling. The Eagles aren't any other franchise. When they add talent at quarterback, it isn't just intentional. It's also understandable. Their dedication to investing in insurance at the game's most important position is part of their business model, and recent behind-the-scenes footage from Philadelphia's draft room offered important context. During the Eagles' annual “passion meetings,” scouts and coaches have the opportunity to stand before the room and passionately advocate for prospects they strongly believe in. Those meetings often reveal which players truly resonate with decision-makers beyond the film study and measurable traits.
Thanks to the release of some behind-the-scenes draft footage, we've seen Clint Hurtt pound the table for Uar Bernard, and we have seen Eagles Midlands area scout Duke Tobin explain why Payton receives his 'red star.'
In footage shared following the draft, Tobin delivered an emphatic endorsement of the North Dakota product while urging the organization to select him.
Statements like that matter inside NFL buildings. The Eagles have long prioritized toughness, competitiveness, leadership, and mental makeup just as much as physical ability. Payton's appeal seemingly extends beyond arm talent or athletic upside. Philadelphia appears convinced that his personality and approach fit the culture they've spent years building.
Of course, passion and toughness alone do not guarantee NFL success. History is filled with football lifers who loved the game deeply but still struggled once the spotlight intensified. Former Eagles head coach Andy Reid once promoted Juan Castillo from offensive line coach to defensive coordinator, in part because of his 'football passion' and intelligence. The experiment famously failed.
Eventually, Payton's future will depend on development, execution, and whether his traits translate against NFL competition. For now, however, the Eagles clearly believe they added someone who fits their locker room and organizational identity. Whether that eventually leads to meaningful snaps remains to be seen, but inside Philadelphia's building, belief in Cole Payton already appears genuine.
This article originally appeared on Eagles Wire: Eagles draft room video reveals there was strong belief in Cole Payton
Continue reading...
Spending draft capital on another developmental signal-caller, in some circles, can seem somewhat puzzling. The Eagles aren't any other franchise. When they add talent at quarterback, it isn't just intentional. It's also understandable. Their dedication to investing in insurance at the game's most important position is part of their business model, and recent behind-the-scenes footage from Philadelphia's draft room offered important context. During the Eagles' annual “passion meetings,” scouts and coaches have the opportunity to stand before the room and passionately advocate for prospects they strongly believe in. Those meetings often reveal which players truly resonate with decision-makers beyond the film study and measurable traits.
Thanks to the release of some behind-the-scenes draft footage, we've seen Clint Hurtt pound the table for Uar Bernard, and we have seen Eagles Midlands area scout Duke Tobin explain why Payton receives his 'red star.'
Cole Payton is "wired like an Eagle"
In footage shared following the draft, Tobin delivered an emphatic endorsement of the North Dakota product while urging the organization to select him.
During the team’s red star meeting ahead of the 2026 NFL Draft, Eagles midlands area scout Duke Tobin Jr. labeled North Dakota State QB Cole Payton as his red star player.
@Eagles) pic.twitter.com/32vPa4hDL3
— Anthony DiBona (@DiBonaNFL) May 7, 2026
Statements like that matter inside NFL buildings. The Eagles have long prioritized toughness, competitiveness, leadership, and mental makeup just as much as physical ability. Payton's appeal seemingly extends beyond arm talent or athletic upside. Philadelphia appears convinced that his personality and approach fit the culture they've spent years building.
Passion alone won't determine success
Of course, passion and toughness alone do not guarantee NFL success. History is filled with football lifers who loved the game deeply but still struggled once the spotlight intensified. Former Eagles head coach Andy Reid once promoted Juan Castillo from offensive line coach to defensive coordinator, in part because of his 'football passion' and intelligence. The experiment famously failed.
Eventually, Payton's future will depend on development, execution, and whether his traits translate against NFL competition. For now, however, the Eagles clearly believe they added someone who fits their locker room and organizational identity. Whether that eventually leads to meaningful snaps remains to be seen, but inside Philadelphia's building, belief in Cole Payton already appears genuine.
This article originally appeared on Eagles Wire: Eagles draft room video reveals there was strong belief in Cole Payton
Continue reading...
