Steelers Scout North Dakota State Prospects

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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

route 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.

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