2025 NFL Draft: A Deep Dive into the Quarterback Class and Surprising Picks

By: Cally Li and Ishita Chopra 

As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, the spotlight is shining brightly on a talented group of quarterbacks. This year’s draft class is creating waves, with names like Cam Ward, Shedeur Sanders, and Jaxson Dart among those that could shape the future of NFL franchises. However, each of these top quarterbacks is facing different paths, with varying projections on where they might land.

Cam Ward: The Consensus No. 1 Pick 

Cam Ward, the highly skilled quarterback from the University of Miami, is widely regarded as the consensus top pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. Ward has drawn attention for his combination of arm strength, poise, and ability to perform under pressure. His fluid mechanics and football IQ make him a clear candidate for teams searching for their next franchise quarterback.

According to recent mock drafts, Ward is most likely to go first overall to the Tennessee Titans, who are in need of a long-term solution at the position. The Titans have a strong offensive line but have struggled to find a quarterback who can consistently deliver, and Ward could be the answer. His potential to lead a franchise is undeniable, and analysts, including those from Bleacher Report, highlight his attributes as a top-tier quarterback who is ready to start immediately

Shedeur Sanders: Falling Down the Board?

Shedeur Sanders, the quarterback from the University of Colorado, has been a standout player, largely due to his electric playmaking ability and leadership qualities. The son of NFL Hall of Famer Deion Sanders, Shedeur entered the college football scene with massive expectations. However, as the draft approaches, his stock appears to be in flux.

While some scouts still view him as a first-round talent, others have raised concerns about his athleticism and arm strength. His physical tools, while impressive, may not be enough to guarantee him a top pick. Some experts have expressed reservations regarding his ability to thrive at the next level, particularly with questions about his mobility and the consistency of his deep ball.

Recent mock drafts show Sanders potentially falling out of the top 10, with one projection even having him slip to the Pittsburgh Steelers at No. 21 (CBS Sports). The uncertainty surrounding his draft position adds an intriguing layer of drama to the upcoming draft. His NFL future remains one of the most hotly debated topics in the scouting community.

Jaxson Dart: Rising Stock and a First-Round Outlook

On the other hand, Jaxson Dart, the quarterback from Ole Miss, is seeing his stock rise steadily as the draft nears. Dart has been an explosive force at Ole Miss, showcasing an ability to make big plays both through the air and on the ground. His versatility and athleticism have made him an appealing option for teams that may be looking for a dual-threat quarterback to lead their offense.

Mock drafts are increasingly projecting Dart as a potential first-round pick, with some even predicting that he could go as high as No. 9 overall to the New Orleans Saints. Sporting News recently noted Dart’s ability to make plays outside of the pocket and his overall upside as key reasons why he could land in the first round. The Saints, who have relied on veterans in recent years, might see Dart as a long-term solution to their quarterback issues, and he could be the player they target in the draft.

A Competitive Quarterback Market

The 2025 NFL Draft features one of the most competitive quarterback markets in recent memory. With several teams in need of a signal-caller, the pressure is on both the quarterbacks and the front offices to make the right choices. While Ward is the consensus top pick, the fates of Sanders and Dart are less certain, and this unpredictability is what makes this year’s quarterback class so exciting to follow.

Teams like the New York Jets, Detroit Lions, and Atlanta Falcons could all be potential landing spots for these quarterbacks, as they continue their quest to find the next great leader at the position. Each of these quarterbacks brings something different to the table: Ward’s calm and collected pocket presence, Sanders’ raw athleticism and leadership, and Dart’s dual-threat ability.

As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, the quarterback class promises to deliver plenty of drama. While Cam Ward looks poised to be the first pick, the futures of Shedeur Sanders and Jaxson Dart are far from settled. Whether Sanders falls out of the first round or Dart’s stock continues to rise, the quarterback position will be one of the most talked-about aspects of the 2025 NFL Draft.

For fans, teams, and analysts alike, the next few weeks leading up to the draft will be filled with uncertainty and excitement. The future of the NFL may very well be shaped by the decisions made during the 2025 draft, making this one of the most highly anticipated events of the year.