Looking for a QB in the NFL Draft? Meet five standouts not named Sanders or Ward. As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches in less than two months, Miami’s Cam Ward and Colorado’s Shedeur Sanders have emerged as the top quarterbacks in this year’s class. With five teams in the top 10 actively searching for franchise quarterbacks, it’s anticipated that these two will be selected early on draft day.
In a league where quarterbacks are highly sought after, the NFL scouting community is diligently evaluating prospects who could potentially become the next franchise signal-callers. After spending valuable time at the NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis, here’s a look at the next five quarterback prospects who are generating buzz after Sanders and Ward:
The dynamic playmaker from Ole Miss, Jaxson Dart, has transformed into one of college football’s most explosive quarterbacks during his three-year tenure. Dart’s knack for big plays helped propel the Rebels to consecutive seasons with at least ten wins, lighting up scoreboards across the SEC. Standing at 6 feet 2 inches and weighing 223 pounds, he possesses all the traits that scouts seek in a franchise quarterback. His deep ball accuracy and ability to consistently hit targets at various ranges make him a versatile threat. While Lane Kiffin’s innovative offensive scheme provides Dart with opportunities for easy completions, he also showcases the arm strength to deliver precise throws in tight spaces. With his agility and athleticism, Dart can extend plays and pick up crucial first downs, making him a valuable asset for NFL teams looking to maximize his potential as a starting quarterback.
Round value: Bottom of 1st
Jalen Milroe, the ultra-athletic quarterback from Alabama, draws comparisons to Jalen Hurts due to his dual-threat capabilities. Milroe’s explosive running ability has made him a formidable opponent, as he rushed for over 1,500 yards and scored 33 touchdowns with the Crimson Tide. At 6 feet 1 inch and 217 pounds, his combination of speed and power makes him a potential offensive weapon in the NFL. While Milroe excels at throwing deep passes, he needs to refine his accuracy and ball placement on shorter throws to succeed as a professional quarterback. With time to develop his skills, he could thrive in a quarterback-friendly system that leverages his dual-threat potential.
Round value: 2nd
Tyler Shough, a seasoned seventh-year player, has impressed scouts with his performance in the pre-draft process, particularly at the Senior Bowl and NFL Scouting Combine. At 25 years old and standing 6 feet 5 inches tall, Shough combines impressive arm talent with athleticism that many coaches admire in a franchise quarterback. Despite facing injury setbacks during his time at Texas Tech, he has demonstrated the ability to make all the necessary throws with precision and anticipation. His standout year at Louisville has positioned him as a wildcard in the 2025 quarterback class, with many believing he has the potential to become a starter.
Round value: 2nd
Kyle McCord, after a challenging stint at Ohio State, has found success at Syracuse, where he has become known for his quick-release passing style. At 6 feet 3 inches and 218 pounds, McCord’s accuracy and ball placement allow him to execute a short-passing game effectively. While his reliance on mid-range throws may limit some offensive explosiveness, his ability to make sound decisions and quickly find open receivers makes him a valuable player in a ball-control offense. Although he may develop into a low-to-mid-level starter, he possesses the potential to be a reliable backup quarterback early in his career.
Round value: 3rd
Finally, Donovan Howard, a former Kansas State standout, played a pivotal role in helping the Buckeyes secure a national title during his one season in Columbus. As an athletic rhythm passer, he effectively utilized a blend of intermediate throws to keep defenses guessing. Howard’s quick release and ball-handling skills made the Buckeyes’ run-pass option game challenging for opponents. While he excels at distributing the ball to playmakers, his arm strength and precision as a traditional dropback passer may limit his effectiveness without a strong supporting cast. He is best suited for a game-manager role, potentially as a backup quarterback in the NFL.
Round value: 5th
