QB Carousel: Ranking the Hottest NFL Quarterback Controversies of 2025

The 2025 NFL season is shaping up to be a wild ride, and nowhere is that more evident than in the league’s quarterback rooms. From high-profile free agent signings to surprising draft picks and lingering questions about established starters, several teams are grappling with QB controversies that could make or break their season. As training camps heat up, let’s dive into the hottest quarterback battles and rank them by their potential impact on the league.

1. Cleveland Browns: A Quarterback Conundrum

The Cleveland Browns’ quarterback situation is arguably the most complex and intriguing in the NFL. After Deshaun Watson suffered a second Achilles tendon rupture last winter, the Browns went into a frenzy, adding veteran Joe Flacco, trading for Kenny Pickett, and drafting Dillon Gabriel and Shedeur Sanders. Now, Kevin Stefanski faces the daunting task of sorting through this crowded room.

Joe Flacco: Despite being 40 years old, Flacco brings invaluable experience and a Super Bowl ring to the table. His performance last season (70.7 PFF passing grade) showed he still has something left in the tank, making him a strong contender for the starting job.
Kenny Pickett: The former Steelers first-rounder is looking for a fresh start in Cleveland. While his time in Pittsburgh was underwhelming, a change of scenery and Stefanski’s offensive system could unlock his potential.
Dillon Gabriel: The Oregon standout has impressed coaches with his processing speed and decision-making during OTAs and minicamp, earning him extra reps.
Shedeur Sanders: Sanders’ slide to the fifth round of the 2025 NFL Draft was shocking, but he’s determined to prove his doubters wrong. Some analysts even suggest the Indianapolis Colts might try to trade for Sanders if he has a strong preseason debut.

Pro Football Focus believes the Browns should trade one of their quarterbacks, with Pickett being the most likely candidate. However, if Sanders impresses early, the Browns might consider handing him the reins sooner rather than later. This quarterback battle has so many layers and could significantly impact the Browns’ chances in the competitive AFC North.

2. New Orleans Saints: A Quarterback Carnival

With Derek Carr retiring this offseason, the New Orleans Saints are entering a new era under center. The Saints have a full-blown quarterback carnival with Tyler Shough, Spencer Rattler, and Jake Haener vying for the starting role.

Tyler Shough: Drafted in the second round of the 2025 NFL Draft, Shough is the presumed frontrunner. At 6’5″ with a strong arm, he fits the prototype of an NFL passer. However, his college career was marred by injuries and inconsistency.
Spencer Rattler: Rattler flashed playmaking ability as a rookie but struggled with accuracy and made typical first-year mistakes.
Jake Haener: Haener is a longshot, but his leadership qualities and running ability could give him an edge.

The Saints’ quarterback battle is wide open, and the winner will have a significant impact on the team’s offensive output.

3. Indianapolis Colts: Richardson vs. Jones

The Indianapolis Colts are at a crossroads with their quarterback situation. Anthony Richardson, the raw but electric talent they invested a fourth-overall selection, is being pushed by veteran Daniel Jones.

Anthony Richardson: Richardson’s collection of injuries, continued inconsistency, and infrequent flashes have not yet translated into sustained brilliance.
Daniel Jones: Jones was brought in to push Richardson or potentially replace him. Jones provides a great value version of Richardson’s running prowess.

Colts’ head coach Shane Steichen has called the quarterback battle “neck and neck.” While the Colts are publicly supportive of both quarterbacks, they are hoping Richardson will emerge as the clear-cut starter.

4. New York Giants: Wilson, Winston, and Dart

The New York Giants have completely revamped their quarterback room this offseason. They signed Russell Wilson and Jameis Winston in free agency before trading up to draft Jaxson Dart.

Russell Wilson: Wilson is looking to revive his career after a disappointing stint in Denver.
Jameis Winston: Winston brings experience and a gunslinger mentality to the Giants’ offense.
Jaxson Dart: The Giants traded up to select Dart, signaling their belief that he could be their franchise quarterback of the future.

The Giants’ quarterback battle is one of the most intriguing in the league, and the winner will have a significant impact on the team’s fortunes.

5. Tennessee Titans: Ward vs. Levis

The Tennessee Titans are another team with a quarterback battle brewing. Will Levis, who showed flashes of potential last season, is being challenged by rookie Cam Ward.

Will Levis: Levis has the arm talent and athleticism to be a successful NFL quarterback, but he needs to improve his consistency and decision-making.
Cam Ward: Ward is considered one of the top quarterbacks in the 2025 draft class.

The Titans’ quarterback battle is one of the most important in the league, as the winner will be tasked with leading the team’s offense for years to come.

Other Notable Quarterback Situations

Pittsburgh Steelers: After a disappointing season with Russell Wilson and Justin Fields, the Steelers could be looking for a new quarterback in 2026.
Minnesota Vikings: With J.J. McCarthy taking over as the starter, the Vikings have been linked to a potential trade for veteran quarterback James Winston to add insurance behind McCarthy.

The quarterback carousel is spinning faster than ever in the NFL, and the controversies surrounding these battles will undoubtedly shape the landscape of the 2025 season. As training camps progress and the preseason gets underway, these quarterback competitions will be under the microscope, and their outcomes will have a ripple effect across the league.