Rookie QBs Under Pressure: Who Will Thrive, Who Will Dive in 2025?

The roar of the crowd, the weight of expectations, and the speed of the NFL game – it’s a crucible that forges legends and shatters potential. As the 2025 season approaches, a new class of rookie quarterbacks is about to enter this high-stakes arena. The Tennessee Titans, Cleveland Browns, and New York Giants are among the teams potentially pinning their hopes on these young signal-callers. But who among them is poised to thrive under pressure, and who might struggle to stay afloat?

The Quarterback Landscape of the 2025 Draft

The 2025 NFL Draft is shaping up to be an intriguing one for quarterbacks. Unlike the 2024 draft, which saw a record-tying six quarterbacks selected in the first round, this year’s class is viewed with a bit more skepticism. While there’s undeniable talent, many analysts believe the transition to the NFL will be a significant challenge for these young players.

Several names are consistently mentioned as potential first-round picks:

Cam Ward (Miami): Ward has won ACC Player of the Year, ACC Offensive Player of the Year, and was named a 1st-Team AP All-American in 2024. He set an NCAA record with 158 career passing touchdowns and led the FBS with 39 passing TDs in his final season while finishing fourth in Heisman voting. Ward is considered by some to be the potential No. 1 overall pick. He is ultra-confident, at times to a fault. His mentality could one day make him an All-Pro — if his fundamentals don’t drop him from the league entirely.
Shedeur Sanders (Colorado): The son of Hall of Famer Deion Sanders, Shedeur is known for his accuracy and poise. Sanders led the nation with a 74.0% completion rate in 2024 while setting multiple school records at Colorado. Some scouts believe he is the most prepared franchise quarterback prospect in the history of the NFL draft.
Jaxson Dart (Ole Miss): Dart is a dynamic player with a live arm and the ability to make plays both in and out of the pocket. Dart already possesses a well-proportioned frame and a live arm. He has a quick setup and delivery of the ball and can drop his arm angle to throw around defenders, as well as over them. Further, he is a quality athlete, capable of making plays in rhythm or improvising and extending plays.
Jalen Milroe (Alabama): Milroe is perhaps the most physically gifted quarterback in the class, boasting a strong arm and impressive athleticism. Milroe is the only player in the FBS responsible for over 30 touchdowns through the air and ground in each of the past two seasons. However, he is still inconsistent in his decision-making and accuracy.
Tyler Shough (Louisville): Shough battled through injuries to become a national Comeback Player of the Year in 2024, earning Honorable Mention All-ACC honors while setting career highs with 3,195 passing yards and 23 touchdowns. Shough has proven to be a tough and experienced quarterback with the ability to push the ball downfield and extend plays.

The Pressure Cooker: Teams with QB Needs

Several teams are heading into the 2025 season with significant question marks at the quarterback position. These teams will be closely evaluating the rookie class, hoping to find their franchise cornerstone.

Cleveland Browns: Deshaun Watson’s injury woes have left the Browns in a precarious situation. While they traded for Kenny Pickett, they are almost guaranteed to select a quarterback in the first two rounds.
New York Giants: The Giants have been actively searching for a long-term solution at quarterback. After signing Russell Wilson and Jameis Winston, they may not take a quarterback with the No. 3 overall pick, but there’s no long-term vision at the position.
Tennessee Titans: The Titans are in a prime position to draft a quarterback with the No. 1 overall pick. They need a franchise passer to lead their offense into the future.
Las Vegas Raiders: After filling the hole at quarterback with Geno Smith, the Raiders could still look to add a young quarterback to develop behind him.
Los Angeles Rams: While the Rams brought back Matthew Stafford, they were open to exploring a new direction at the position. With Stafford’s contract only tying him to the team through 2026, they may look to draft a quarterback to groom for the future.
New Orleans Saints: With Derek Carr’s status uncertain due to a shoulder injury, the Saints may look to get younger at the quarterback position.
Pittsburgh Steelers: The Steelers have a gaping hole at quarterback. Even if they sign a veteran like Aaron Rodgers, drafting a quarterback for the future feels like a near lock.

Who Will Thrive?

Predicting which rookie quarterback will thrive is an inexact science, but several factors point to potential success:

Cam Ward: Ward’s arm talent and mobility make him an intriguing prospect. If he can improve his consistency and decision-making, he has the potential to be a star.
Shedeur Sanders: Sanders’ accuracy and poise are rare for a young quarterback. If he lands in the right system with a strong coaching staff, he could develop into a top-tier passer. A team like the Los Angeles Rams, where he could sit behind Matthew Stafford for a year or two, could be an ideal fit.
Jaxson Dart: Dart’s playmaking ability and arm strength are undeniable. If he can refine his fundamentals and improve his full-field reads, he could become a dynamic NFL starter.

Who Might Dive?

Not every highly touted prospect lives up to the hype. Several factors could lead to a rookie quarterback struggling:

Jalen Milroe: Milroe’s inconsistency and erratic decision-making could hinder his development. He needs to land with a team that is willing to be patient and allow him to sit and learn.
Tyler Shough: Shough’s extensive injury history is a major concern. Durability is crucial for a quarterback, and Shough’s past could make it difficult for him to stay on the field.

The Importance of Fit and Development

Ultimately, a rookie quarterback’s success depends on more than just his talent. The team he lands with, the coaching staff, and the supporting cast all play a crucial role. A quarterback with immense potential can flounder in the wrong environment, while a less heralded prospect can thrive with the right support.

For example, a team with a strong offensive line, a reliable running game, and talented receivers can ease the pressure on a rookie quarterback, allowing him to develop at his own pace. A coaching staff that is committed to developing young players and tailoring the offense to the quarterback’s strengths can also make a significant difference.

The Waiting Game

As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, the speculation and analysis will only intensify. Which teams will gamble on a rookie quarterback? Which rookies will rise to the occasion and become franchise players? Only time will tell. But one thing is certain: the pressure is on, and the future of several NFL franchises hangs in the balance.