Ranking Every 2025 Rookie QB Based on Situation: Who Is Positioned to Succeed?

Ranking All 14 QBs From the 2025 NFL Draft by Chance to Start

The 2025 NFL Draft brought in a new wave of quarterbacks, though it lacked star power. Only two QBs were taken in the first round — Cam Ward at No. 1 overall and Jaxson Dart late in the round. Surprisingly, Shedeur Sanders, once seen as a top pick, fell to the fifth round. Here’s a look at the draft’s 14 QBs ranked by their chances of earning a starting role:

1. Cam Ward – Titans
As the No. 1 pick, Ward has the clearest path to starting. Even if Will Levis starts Week 1, it’s only a matter of time before Ward takes over.

2. Tyler Shough – Saints
Drafted in the second round, the 26-year-old Shough could step in if Derek Carr's injuries continue. He’s not elite, but his opportunity is real.

3. Jalen Milroe – Seahawks
A raw but athletic talent, Milroe is behind Sam Darnold for now, but Seattle could groom him as the future starter.

4. Jaxson Dart – Giants
The Giants jumped into Round 1 to get Dart. With Russell Wilson and Jameis Winston ahead of him, Dart may wait—but if the team struggles, he could play sooner than expected.

5. Shedeur Sanders – Browns
Despite the slide, Sanders landed in a favorable situation. Cleveland’s QB room is shaky, and he could leapfrog both Kenny Pickett and Dillon Gabriel with a strong camp.

6. Will Howard – Steelers
Pittsburgh’s QB room is unsettled, and Howard’s winning background gives him a real shot at making an impression.

7. Riley Leonard – Colts
He fits the Colts' dual-threat system behind Anthony Richardson and Daniel Jones. Likely a long-term backup, but a smart depth addition.

8. Kyle McCord – Eagles
McCord was prolific at Syracuse, but he doesn't match Jalen Hurts' style. He’s a developmental prospect with limited starting upside in Philly.

9. Kurtis Rourke – 49ers
A Brock Purdy-type, but buried behind Purdy and Mac Jones. May need to shine elsewhere down the line.

10. Dylan Gabriel – Browns
Productive in college but lacks measurables. Behind Sanders, Pickett, and Flacco on a deep depth chart.

11. Graham Mertz – Texans
C.J. Stroud is the guy in Houston, but Mertz could carve out a reliable backup role.

12. Mike Miller – Raiders
Has experience and leadership traits, but may never beat out Aidan O’Connell unless there’s a major shakeup.

13. Quinn Ewers – Dolphins
Drafted last among all QBs, Ewers joins a deep Miami QB room. He’ll need luck and development to move up.

14. Tommy Mellott – Raiders
Officially listed as a QB, but the Raiders may convert him to wide receiver. Think Julian Edelman 2.0.