The 2025 NFL Draft, at least before the names start being called, isn't expected to have one of history's best quarterback classes. However, it's also a lot better than many think after first glance.
There are two potential long-term franchise passers and a third with that kind of upside, all expected to go in the first round. Beyond that, there are intriguing development QBs who could either start down the line or be valuable backups.
Here's looking at the 10 best quarterbacks who all should be selected from April 24-26.
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NFL Draft prospects 2025: The top 10 quarterbacks
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1. Cam Ward, Miami (6-2, 219 pounds)
Ward is such a smooth passer, whether dropping back or while on the move, showcasing strong delivery on throws of all depths. He has emerged as a surefire pick for Tennessee with his athleticism and intangibles that include leadership and mental toughness through adversity. He can both extend pass plays with his legs and also use them to take off for key gains.
Draft projection: No. 1 overall pick to Titans
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2. Shedeur Sanders, Colorado (6-1, 212 pounds)
Sanders is the best pure pocket passer in this class. He makes every throw with strength and unlimited confidence thanks to his long-time NFL polish and pedigree as his coach's son. Like Deion, Shedeur has some "Prime Time" flair to come up with his biggest plays in the clutch.
Draft projection: Early first round to mid first round
3. Jaxson Dart, Ole Miss (6-2, 225 pounds)
Draft is tough, feisty, and aggressive, and that shows up in both his unfazed, accurate downfield passing and speedy, sturdy running when needed. He's aced the pre-draft process, stamped by the Senior Bowl, and shown franchise leader-like swag.
Draft projection: Mid first round to late first round
4. Quinn Ewers, Texas (6-2, 214 pounds)
Ewers is just a notch below Sanders with his arm and pocket passing prowess. He has a history of accuracy and efficiency. He also has proved he can display athleticism when there's a protection breakdown. Ewers has the skill set to thrive with the right systemic support.
Draft projection: Late second round to third round
5. Jalen Milroe, Alabama (6-2, 217 pounds)
Milroe can dazzle with his athleticism as the best running QB in this class, making him a dangerous dual threat. He needs to work on accuracy and consistency with making short-to-intermediate throws, but the ball flies off his arm on passes deep downfield.
Draft projection: Late second round to third round
6. Will Howard, Ohio State (6-4, 236 pounds)
The physical tools and experience are there for Howard to be an effective, well-rounded NFL QB, but he needs work on his mechanics and footwork to stick as a long-term No. 2.
Draft projection: Third round to fourth round
7. Dillon Gabriel, Oregon (5-11, 205 pounds)
Gabriel has some questions related to his size and inconsistent arm strength that relegate him to an intriguing developmental project for his accuracy, athleticism, and winning intangibles. He can do well in a variety of systems that value his running.
Draft projection: Third round to fourth round
8. Riley Leonard, Notre Dame (6-4, 216 pounds)
Leonard is tough as nails and has an iron determination to make the necessary plays with an aggressive arm and willing legs. He would operate best in a Kyle Shanahan adjacent 49ers-like offense.
Draft projection: Third round to fourth round
9. Kyle McCord, Syracuse (6-3, 218 pounds)
McCord joins Ewers and Howard as former Ohio State QBs about to enter the NFL. With a big season for the Orange, McCord in intriguing because he's a strong pocket passer with the toughness to hang in there and make a lot of big downfield throws.
Draft projection: Fourth round to fifth round
10. Tyler Shough, Louisville (6-5, 219 pounds)
Another well-traveled prospect in college, Shough has no problem making all the throws with his lanky, big-armed frame, but he can be rather erratic, showing that he's still more of a raw work in progress. His mechanics and decision-making need work, but he also has some athletic upside among his positive developmental assets.
Draft projection: Fourth round to fifth round