Top 10 Quarterbacks in the 2025 NFL Draft: From Franchise Cornerstones to High-Risk Gambles

By Jason Bolton April 21, 2025 11:30

The 2025 NFL Draft’s quarterback class is defined by polarizing evaluations, mid-round depth, and a lack of consensus behind projected top pick Cam Ward. With teams like the Titans, Saints, and Jets eyeing long-term solutions, here’s how the top 10 signal-callers stack up based on film, stats, and insider intel.

1. Cam Ward (Miami)

Ward is the closest to a “lock” at QB1, having thrown for 4,313 yards with 43 touchdowns and only 7 interceptions in 2024, along with 204 rushing yards. His unorthodox playmaking and big-game confidence have drawn comparisons to Kyler Murray. An NFC scout summarized his potential bluntly: “He’s either a future All-Pro or out of the league in five years—no in-between.” The Titans are expected to take him first overall, banking on his ability to elevate a rebuilding offense.

2. Shedeur Sanders (Colorado)

Sanders threw for 4,134 yards and 37 touchdowns with just 3 interceptions but endured 42 sacks in 2024. His poise under pressure and NFL pedigree give him a high floor, though his average arm strength and slight frame (6’2”, 215 lbs) have teams split on his upside. ESPN analyst Jordan Reid called him “a Day 1 starter who’ll win with IQ, not physical tools.” The Saints, picking ninth, could reach for his leadership and savvy.

3. Jalen Milroe (Alabama)

Milroe’s dual-threat ability shines with 2,844 passing yards, 24 touchdowns, and 726 rushing yards in 2024. His 36 total touchdowns and academic accolades make him a tantalizing project. An AFC executive compared him to “Michael Vick 2.0 if he improves his touch.” Most boards slot him as a Day 2 pick, with the Jets eyeing him as a developmental backup.

4. Jaxson Dart (Ole Miss)

Dart boasts a pro-ready accuracy with a 68.4% completion rate, 3,364 passing yards, and 29 touchdowns in 2024. His experience in Lane Kiffin’s NFL-style offense boosts his stock. CBS Sports analyst Chris Trapasso called him “the safest pick outside the top two.” Several teams, including the Saints, Raiders, and Seahawks, have shown interest in this second-round prospect.

5. Will Howard (Ohio State)

Standing 6’4” and weighing 236 pounds, Howard threw for 4,010 yards and 42 touchdowns with 10 interceptions in 2024. His willingness to attack all coverages appeals to West Coast schemes. An NFC coach called him “a poor man’s Brock Purdy.” The Colts could take him as competition for their young quarterback.

6. Riley Leonard (Notre Dame)

Leonard’s toughness and mobility stand out, with 2,732 passing yards, 20 touchdowns, and over 1,100 career rushing yards. Though his accuracy is streaky, teams see him as a Taysom Hill-type weapon early in his career. Mid-Day 3 teams like the Dolphins could target him as a backup.

7. Quinn Ewers (Texas)

Ewers threw for 3,472 yards and 33 touchdowns but struggled with 12 interceptions and inconsistent footwork. His arm talent and improvisation are undeniable, with 17 big-time throws last season. The Raiders have shown interest in his upside, with one Pac-12 scout calling him “a Pete Carroll special waiting to happen.”

8. Kyle McCord (Syracuse)

McCord led the nation with 4,779 passing yards and 37 touchdowns in 2024. However, he struggled under pressure, completing just over half of his throws when blitzed. The Rams could draft him as a potential heir to Matthew Stafford. An ACC coach described him as “a system QB who needs perfect protection.”

9. Tyler Shough (Louisville)

Shough brings experience with seven college seasons and threw for 3,195 yards and 24 touchdowns in 2024. His quick release intrigues teams like the Browns. An analyst compared him to “this year’s Bo Nix—older but NFL-ready.”

10. Dillon Gabriel (Oregon)

Gabriel holds the NCAA record with 189 total touchdowns and posted 3,857 passing yards with 37 touchdowns in 2024. His quick processing fits well in many NFL schemes, though his height (5’11”) limits his ceiling. The Dolphins could stash him as a backup.

The Wildcards

Carson Beck of Georgia is technically eligible but likely returning to school, while Drew Allar of Penn State is projected as a 2026 prospect if he declares early.

The Verdict

This quarterback class lacks a generational talent but offers depth for teams in need of signal-callers. Ward and Sanders are the only likely first-rounders, while Day 2 gems like Dart and Milroe could outperform their draft positions. As one NFC general manager summed up: “You’re either betting on upside or hoping for a miracle.”

This 2025 quarterback class presents a fascinating mix of polished prospects and developmental projects, offering NFL teams a range of options depending on their immediate needs and long-term visions. With the draft fast approaching, the spotlight will be on which franchises can identify the next franchise cornerstone amid this intriguing group.