Former Bison WR Bryce Lance, QB Cole Payton Impress at NFL Combine

North Dakota State stars post elite 40-yard dash times at annual scouting event

Mar. 3, 2026 at 12:07am

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Former North Dakota State wide receiver Bryce Lance and quarterback Cole Payton both turned in impressive 40-yard dash times at the 2026 NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis. NFL Network analyst Daniel Jeremiah had predicted that Lance, a top wide receiver prospect, would test well in the speed drill.

Why it matters

The 40-yard dash is one of the most closely watched events at the NFL Combine, as it provides teams with valuable data on a player's straight-line speed and acceleration - key attributes for skill position players. Strong performances in the 40 can significantly boost a prospect's draft stock.

The details

Lance, a projected early-round pick, recorded an official time of 4.32 seconds in the 40-yard dash, while Payton, a potential mid-round quarterback selection, clocked in at 4.48 seconds. Both times were among the fastest at their respective positions during the Combine workouts.

  • The 2026 NFL Scouting Combine took place from February 27 to March 5 in Indianapolis.
  • The 40-yard dash events were held on Friday, February 28.

The players

Bryce Lance

A former wide receiver for the North Dakota State Bison, Lance is considered one of the top wide receiver prospects in the 2026 NFL Draft class.

Cole Payton

A former quarterback for the North Dakota State Bison, Payton is projected to be a mid-round selection in the 2026 NFL Draft.

Daniel Jeremiah

An NFL Network analyst who correctly predicted that Bryce Lance would test well in the 40-yard dash at the Combine.

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What they’re saying

“Bryce is going to be very fast for a wideout.”

— Daniel Jeremiah, NFL Network Analyst

The takeaway

The strong 40-yard dash times posted by Bryce Lance and Cole Payton at the NFL Combine have boosted their draft stock and showcased the talent coming out of the North Dakota State football program. These performances will likely generate increased interest from NFL teams as they finalize their evaluations of the top prospects in the 2026 class.