After Cam Ward and Shedeur Sanders, the question of who stands as QB3 in the 2025 NFL Draft is generating buzz. This year’s quarterback class is perceived to be less robust than in previous years, making the hunt for the third-best prospect particularly intriguing.
“Look, there’s a lot of people who say a lot of different things, so I’m not trying to tie my head into anything like that,” Ole Miss quarterback Jaxson Dart stated during the NFL Combine when discussing the narrative that only two quarterbacks are elite prospects. “This has been a dream for me since I was a little kid to be in this position that I’m in today. I’m really just trying to improve. I know that if I control things that I can control, everything’s going to play out the right way. I’m not even too nervous about that at all.”
Here’s a look at five quarterbacks who are in the running to be the third quarterback selected next month:
Jaxson Dart, Ole Miss
Measurables: 6-foot-2, 223 pounds
2024 stats (13 games): 69.3% completion rate for 4,279 yards and 29 touchdowns with 6 interceptions; 124 carries for 495 yards and 3 touchdowns
Several draft analysts suggest Dart could be picked as high as the late first round.
Jalen Milroe, Alabama
Measurables: 6-foot-2, 217 pounds
2024 stats (13 games): 64.3% completion rate for 2,844 yards and 16 touchdowns with 11 interceptions; 168 carries for 726 yards and 20 touchdowns
Milroe showcases exceptional athleticism, making him a challenge for defenses, especially in open-field situations. However, his combine performance raised concerns due to inaccuracies and underthrown passes, indicating a need for further development in the NFL. Despite being viewed as a potential first-round pick earlier in the season, some projections now place him in the middle rounds. His impressive 20 rushing touchdowns last season ranked second among FBS quarterbacks.
Will Howard, Ohio State
Measurables: 6-foot-4, 236 pounds
2024 stats (16 games): 73.0% completion rate for 4,010 yards and 35 touchdowns with 10 interceptions; 105 carries for 226 yards and 7 touchdowns
As a national champion with the Buckeyes, Howard possesses impressive size and led the Big Ten in touchdown passes. While he demonstrates mobility, critiques suggest he may be overly reliant on the system at Ohio State, which raises questions about his playmaking ability.
Tyler Shough, Louisville
Measurables: 6-foot-5, 219 pounds
2024 stats (12 games): 62.7% completion rate for 3,195 yards and 23 touchdowns with 6 interceptions
Shough’s age and experience could work in his favor, especially in a league that often lacks patience with developing quarterbacks. He has faced injury challenges, playing only 15 games in three years at Texas Tech. However, his size and arm talent are notable, and a solid 4.63-second 40-yard dash at the combine showcases his athleticism.
Quinn Ewers, Texas
Measurables: 6-foot-2, 214 pounds
2024 stats (14 games): 65.8% completion rate for 3,472 yards and 31 touchdowns with 12 interceptions
Ewers possesses impressive throwing mechanics and good pocket mobility, contributing to his success at Texas. However, he faces criticism for his performance under pressure and lacks the escapability that some teams seek in a quarterback.
Who could be QB3?
Dart emerges as a strong candidate for QB3. While he may not possess the elite athleticism of Milroe or the towering size of Howard and Shough, Dart strikes a balance between the two. His impressive production and ability to throw deep in a highly competitive conference position him just behind Ward and Sanders.
Dart’s playing style has drawn comparisons to Philadelphia Eagles’ Jalen Hurts, especially regarding their physical attributes, though Hurts displayed superior running ability entering the NFL.
“I feel like we can do a lot of the same things,” Dart remarked about the Hurts comparison. “Obviously, he’s an elite player, and I’m trying to reach that level. But he’s been somebody that I’ve tried to resemble in my game just because of his versatility, being able to run and throw the ball, and just how strong he is in the pocket.”
Meanwhile, Milroe still has the potential to be the third quarterback selected. His unique athleticism could entice a team with a veteran quarterback willing to invest time in developing him.
