Steelers Scout North Dakota State Prospects

0:00From the Daily News Now Network, this is NFL News Today. Subscribe to keep up with every headline, every game. The Pittsburgh Steelers have clear needs at quarterback and wide receiver heading into the draft. After free agency and trading for Michael Pitt, Jr., they still lack a starter for 2026 and more depth at receiver. That's why they sent scouts to the North Dakota State pro-day to check out two intriguing prospects. North Dakota State often produces sleeper talents, and this year features quarterback Cole Payton and wide receiver Bryce Lance. The Steelers see potential fits for their roster gaps right there on display. Payton stands six feet three inches and weighs 232 pounds with a cannon arm and surprising speed. He blazed the 4.5640 yard dash, passed for 2,719 yards, rushed for 777 more, and scored 29 total touchdowns in 2025. Bryce Lance brings long speed as a receiver, but is still raw. His game has relied on a college scheme that hid some weaknesses, so he needs work on

1:04route running and facing elite defenders. Analysts give Payton a fourth round grade, though the Steelers might grab him in the third as a project player. Lance looks like a day three pick, or even a priority, undrafted free agent, keeping the Steelers options open. The Daily News Now is made possible with support from our sponsor. When you want calm, do not reach for your phone, lay back and listen, S-O-L-I-SoldyPillow.com.