2025 NFL Draft: Quarterback Rankings and Scouting Reports – After the Snap
The 2024 NFL season saw incredible quarterback performances, like Lamar Jackson’s record-breaking year with 41 passing touchdowns and only four interceptions. As the season progresses, all eyes are turning towards the potential quarterback prospects for the 2025 NFL Draft. With a mix of seasoned veterans and rising stars, this year’s quarterback class promises to be one of the most intriguing in recent memory.
The Top Tier Quarterbacks
Cam Ward, Miami (FL)
Cam Ward is emerging as a potential No. 1 overall pick. Ward’s impressive 2024 season at Miami, where he threw for 4,313 yards and a school-record 39 touchdowns, has significantly boosted his draft stock. According to an AFC quarterbacks coach, Ward possesses “bona fide starter” potential, drawing comparisons to Patrick Mahomes and Caleb Williams due to his playmaking ability and arm talent. Despite needing to improve his consistency, Ward’s arm angles and improvisational skills make him a coveted prospect.
Shedeur Sanders, Colorado
Shedeur Sanders, son of NFL legend Deion Sanders, has also captured the attention of NFL scouts. In 2024, Sanders completed 74% of his passes for 4,134 yards and 37 touchdowns. While some team sources are enthusiastic about Sanders, others remain lukewarm. One area scout noted that Sanders may not “wow with physical tools,” but his mental processing speed and football IQ are exceptional. Sanders’ accuracy and poise under pressure make him a potential first-round pick.
Jaxson Dart, Ole Miss
Jaxson Dart is another quarterback drawing considerable attention. After transferring from USC, Dart has thrived at Ole Miss, showcasing a well-proportioned frame and a live arm. In his senior year, he averaged 329 passing yards per game and ranked in the 81st percentile in EPA per play. Dart’s ability to make plays in rhythm and improvise when needed makes him an attractive prospect for NFL teams seeking a dynamic playmaker.
Dual-Threat Playmakers
Jalen Milroe, Alabama
Jalen Milroe stands out as one of the most physically gifted quarterbacks in the 2025 draft class. Despite some inconsistencies, Milroe’s athleticism and arm strength are undeniable. In a less-than-ideal environment at Alabama, Milroe posted an 83rd percentile QBR and a 63rd percentile EPA per play among drafted quarterbacks since 2005. While he needs to refine his decision-making, Milroe’s potential as a dual-threat quarterback is hard to ignore.
Riley Leonard, Notre Dame
Riley Leonard is a gritty player who helped propel Notre Dame to the national title game. With 45 passing touchdowns and 31 rushing scores in his career, Leonard is a true dual-threat quarterback. His athleticism and efficient release make him well-suited for offenses that utilize bootlegs and attack the short to intermediate zones.
Other Notable Prospects
Quinn Ewers, Texas
Quinn Ewers, once the nation’s top overall recruit, is an intriguing prospect with elite arm talent and a quick release. In 2024, he led Texas to the College Football Playoff, throwing for 3,472 yards and 31 touchdowns. However, concerns about his consistency and mechanics under pressure have tempered expectations. Some analysts project Ewers as a Day 2 or Day 3 pick, potentially as a backup with starter upside.
Drew Allar, Penn State
Drew Allar is a prospect with elite physical tools. In 2024, he completed 66.5% of his passes for 3,327 yards and 24 touchdowns. Allar’s combination of size, arm strength, and developing pocket feel draws comparisons to Josh Allen. While he needs to improve his execution and accuracy, Allar has the potential to be a franchise-altering quarterback.
Carson Beck, Georgia
Carson Beck’s draft projection varies, with some analysts predicting a third-round selection and others seeing him slip to the fifth round. In 2024, Beck finished with 3,485 passing yards, 28 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions. While his season was marked by inconsistency, Beck’s prototypical size and ability to make NFL-level throws are seen as strengths.
Tyler Shough, Louisville
Tyler Shough had an excellent final season and stood out at the Senior Bowl. He could be an NFL starting quarterback.
Scouting Reports and Key Attributes
Accuracy and Decision-Making
- Shedeur Sanders: Known for his exceptional accuracy and understanding of leverage, Sanders excels at placing the ball in tight coverage.
- Carson Beck: While possessing a strong arm, Beck’s accuracy and decision-making have been inconsistent, leading to missed opportunities.
Arm Strength and Talent
- Cam Ward: Ward’s arm talent allows him to make throws on the move and from multiple arm angles, fitting passes into tight coverage.
- Quinn Ewers: Ewers boasts elite arm talent and a lightning-quick release, making him a threat when plays break down.
Dual-Threat Capabilities
- Jalen Milroe: Milroe’s athleticism and speed make him a dangerous runner, complementing his potential as a passer.
- Riley Leonard: Leonard’s ability to both pass and run effectively makes him a versatile option for NFL offenses.
Pocket Presence and Poise
- Shedeur Sanders: Demonstrates rare poise under duress, maintaining mechanics and accuracy even with chaos around him.
- Quinn Ewers: Struggles with pocket presence, often abandoning clean pockets and creating unnecessary pressure.
Potential Landing Spots
- Tennessee Titans: Could look to add help at QB in the 2025 NFL Draft.
- Cleveland Browns: One of the best possible landing places for a quarterback prospect in the 2025 NFL Draft.
- New York Giants: After releasing Daniel Jones, the New York Giants are in the market for a new quarterback.
- Dallas Cowboys: Could be a landing spot for Quinn Ewers.
The 2025 NFL Draft quarterback class is shaping up to be one of the most closely watched in recent years. With a diverse range of talents and skill sets, NFL teams will have plenty of options as they look to secure their franchise quarterbacks of the future.
