Jalen Milroe and Drew Allar are among the rising quarterbacks already generating significant buzz ahead of the 2024 NFL Draft. This year’s draft showcased an unprecedented six quarterbacks selected within the first 12 picks, yet the quest for elite talent at this pivotal position continues unabated.
As the college football season unfolds, several quarterbacks have emerged as standout prospects, including Colorado’s Shedeur Sanders, Texas’ Quinn Ewers, and Georgia’s Carson Beck. Each of these players has captured the attention of NFL scouts, solidifying their status as top-tier prospects early in the season.
Recent NFL draft trends suggest that unexpected quarterbacks often rise to prominence, joining the ranks of preseason favorites as legitimate early-round candidates. With the season just kicking off, it’s essential to highlight some of the quarterbacks who are already making waves among scouts.
Drew Allar stands out with a remarkable combination of size, arm strength, and a remarkable ability to avoid interceptions. He began his collegiate career by setting an NCAA record with zero interceptions in his first 311 passes. As he approaches Week 3, he boasts an impressive 34/3 touchdown-to-interception ratio over his first 25 games. Furthermore, Allar has improved his completion percentage to 64.9% in 2024, while also increasing his average depth of passes to a career-high of 11.4 yards per attempt.
While Allar’s success can be partly attributed to Penn State’s offensive scheme, his individual talents are undeniable. Just a year ago, many were surprised by the suggestion that Michigan’s JJ McCarthy could be the first Wolverines quarterback drafted in the first round since Jim Harbaugh. Similarly, Allar has the potential to become the first Penn State quarterback selected in the first round since Kerry Collins in 1995.
Drew Allar’s blend of size, arm strength, and interception avoidance positions him as a premier NFL prospect. (Photo by Mark Alberti/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
Leading the FBS in passing yards (795) and passer efficiency rating (247.37), Jaxson Dart deserves recognition on any list of rising quarterback prospects. After starting his career at USC, he has guided the Ole Miss Rebels to their first-ever 11-win season. Dart is perfectly suited for Lane Kiffin’s fast-paced offense, delivering accurate passes and showcasing his agility. Although he has faced teams like Furman and Middle Tennessee, his performance reflects a skill set that can translate to tougher competition.
Taylen Green is making a significant jump from Boise State to the SEC, and he has not shied away from the challenge. Completing 61.8% of his passes and scoring five touchdowns (three passing, two rushing) in just two games for Arkansas, Green exhibits a rare combination of athleticism and arm strength. His unique attributes could soon draw comparisons to Anthony Richardson as he continues to develop.
Taylen Green’s impressive skill set may soon draw comparisons to Anthony Richardson. (Photo by John Bunch/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
Kyle McCord has made a successful transition from Ohio State to Syracuse, where he is currently tied for the national lead with eight touchdown passes in just two games. Completing 69.6% of his passes, McCord has demonstrated remarkable anticipation and accuracy, even without the elite receiving talent he had at Ohio State. Although he may not possess the same athleticism as some of his peers, his ability to throw receivers open makes him a valuable prospect.
Kyle McCord’s impressive anticipation and accuracy make him a strong candidate among rising quarterback prospects. (Photo by Gregory Fisher/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
Jalen Milroe possesses remarkable upside, potentially making him one of the most exciting quarterbacks for the 2025 NFL Draft. His speed, agility, and compact frame have drawn comparisons to Michael Vick. While he is still refining his deep ball, Milroe’s developing awareness of defensive dynamics shows promise. If he continues to progress under new head coach Kalen DeBoer, he could become a formidable pocket passer.
Jalen Milroe’s potential under head coach Kalen DeBoer is a topic of interest for NFL scouts. (Photo by Brandon Sumrall/Getty Images)
A highly anticipated matchup this week features Milroe and the Crimson Tide against Tyler Van Dyke and the Wisconsin Badgers. While Milroe’s athleticism stands out, Van Dyke brings his own strengths, including impressive accuracy on the move. Despite only throwing one touchdown in his first two games, Van Dyke’s experience and completion rate of 63.5% with 55 career touchdown passes keep him on the radar of NFL scouts.
Van Dyke’s journey has not been without challenges, as he seeks to prove his durability and consistency throughout the 2024 season. His performance against Alabama will be critical in shaping his draft stock.
Rounding out this list is Cam Ward, who has made a splash early in the 2024 season. After transferring to Miami from Washington State and Incarnate Word, Ward has displayed exceptional elusiveness, vision, and accuracy. Completing an impressive 75.4% of his passes with six touchdowns against just one interception, Ward’s creativity on the field has helped Miami secure a spot in the AP rankings. His ability to perform against quality opponents, including a notable victory over Florida, showcases his readiness for the next level.
Cam Ward’s impressive start to the season positions him as a quarterback to watch. (Photo by James Gilbert/Getty Images)
