Passing the Torch: Gauging Expectations for the Top Rookie Quarterbacks of 2025
The NFL is a quarterback-driven league, and the hopes of several franchises now rest on the shoulders of their newly drafted rookie signal-callers. With the 2025 season fast approaching, it’s time to examine the landscape and gauge expectations for the top rookie quarterbacks poised to take the reins. Last season, C.J. Stroud of the Houston Texans defied expectations, leading his team to a playoff berth and setting a high bar for incoming rookies. Can this year’s class live up to the hype?
Cam Ward: The Titans’ New Hope
Cam Ward, selected first overall by the Tennessee Titans, enters the league with considerable expectations. After a college career that saw him excel at Incarnate Word, Washington State, and finally, Miami, Ward has drawn comparisons to Patrick Mahomes for his improvisational skills and playmaking ability. The Titans have invested heavily in their offensive line, adding JC Latham and Peter Skoronski through the draft and signing Dan Moore and Lloyd Cushenberry to lucrative contracts. Ward will also have Calvin Ridley and Tony Pollard as key offensive weapons.
According to ESPN’s Jordan Reid, Ward’s fit in Tennessee’s offense is promising. “Kevin Stefanski’s offense is at its best when it relies on its West Coast roots. That means having a passer who plays on time and gets the ball out quickly and efficiently,” Reid noted. While some scouts have pointed out that Ward needs to refine his passing and can be inconsistent outside the numbers, others rave about his natural talent and potential to be a “bona fide starter.”
Realistic expectations for Ward in 2025 involve him starting from Week 1 and showing gradual improvement throughout the season. While the Titans may not be a Super Bowl contender just yet, Ward’s presence could kickstart a new era for the franchise.
Jaxson Dart: Groomed for the Giants’ Future
The New York Giants selected Jaxson Dart with the 25th overall pick, signaling their long-term vision at the quarterback position. However, Dart isn’t expected to start immediately. The Giants signed veteran quarterbacks Russell Wilson and Jameis Winston in free agency, with Wilson likely to be the Week 1 starter.
This situation allows Dart to develop behind the scenes, learning from experienced players and offensive minds like Brian Daboll. The Giants hope Dart can refine his skills and become the team’s franchise quarterback in 2026 or beyond.
Tyler Shough: An Opportunity in the Big Easy
Tyler Shough, drafted by the New Orleans Saints with the 40th overall pick, finds himself in an intriguing situation. With Derek Carr’s injury history and inconsistent performance, Shough could see playing time sooner than expected. At 26 years old, Shough brings experience from his time at Oregon, Texas Tech, and Louisville.
According to CBS Sports, Shough could even start for the Saints before the season’s end. While expectations for the Saints’ quarterback room are low, Shough’s arm talent and athleticism could provide some highlight-reel moments.
Jalen Milroe: A Project in Seattle
The Seattle Seahawks selected Jalen Milroe in the third round, adding another intriguing quarterback to their roster. Milroe is known for his exceptional athleticism and running ability, drawing comparisons to a young Michael Vick. However, his passing consistency and decision-making need improvement.
Milroe will likely serve as a backup to Sam Darnold in 2025, with the potential to contribute in specialized offensive packages. If Darnold struggles or gets injured, Milroe could get an opportunity to showcase his potential.
Dillon Gabriel and Shedeur Sanders: The Browns’ Quarterback Conundrum
The Cleveland Browns made headlines by drafting both Dillon Gabriel and Shedeur Sanders, creating a crowded quarterback room alongside veterans Joe Flacco and Kenny Pickett. Gabriel, known for his quick decision-making and accuracy on short-to-intermediate passes, could be a good fit for Kevin Stefanski’s offense. Sanders, on the other hand, is a polarizing prospect with a strong arm and playmaking ability but needs to improve his consistency.
ESPN’s Jordan Reid believes Gabriel could supplant Flacco as the starter due to his fit in the Browns’ offensive scheme. Daniel Oyefusi suggests that Gabriel could get a look if the offense struggles, potentially before Sanders.
Other Rookie Quarterbacks to Watch
Several other rookie quarterbacks could make an impact in 2025, depending on their development and opportunities:
- Will Howard (Pittsburgh Steelers): A sixth-round pick with a championship pedigree, Howard could compete for a backup role and potentially see playing time if the Steelers’ quarterback situation remains unsettled.
- Cam Miller (Las Vegas Raiders): Miller’s winning experience and leadership qualities could help him climb the depth chart in Las Vegas, where the quarterback situation beyond Geno Smith is uncertain.
Setting Realistic Expectations
It’s important to remember that rookie quarterbacks often face challenges in their first NFL season. The speed of the game, the complexity of defenses, and the pressure of leading a franchise can be overwhelming. As CBS Sports noted, the average completion percentage for rookie quarterbacks who threw at least 200 passes over the past five seasons was 63.6%, with 6.74 yards per attempt, a 3.72% touchdown percentage, and a 2.1% interception rate.
While some rookies may exceed these averages, others may struggle to meet them. The key is to be patient and allow these young quarterbacks to develop over time.
The 2025 NFL season promises to be an exciting one for rookie quarterbacks. While expectations should be tempered, the potential for these young players to make a significant impact on their respective teams is undeniable. Whether it’s Cam Ward leading the Titans, Jaxson Dart learning behind the scenes, or Tyler Shough seizing an opportunity in New Orleans, the passing of the torch is officially underway.