Top 10 Quarterbacks in the 2025 NFL Draft—Who Will Go First?

The 2025 NFL Draft is shaping up to be one of the most exciting in recent years, especially for teams in need of a quarterback. This year’s draft class features a mix of polished passers, dual-threat playmakers, and raw talents with sky-high potential. While some prospects have been in the spotlight for years, others have made a name for themselves in their final college season, showing they have what it takes to make an impact at the professional level.

With so many talented quarterbacks available, teams will have plenty of options. Some franchises are looking for an immediate starter, while others may be willing to take on a developmental project. Regardless of the approach, the 2025 draft class offers something for everyone. Here’s a detailed look at the top 10 quarterbacks in this year’s NFL Draft and what makes them stand out from the competition.

1. Caleb Johnson – USC

Johnson has been the most consistent quarterback in college football over the past two seasons, showing elite accuracy, arm strength, and decision-making. He thrives under pressure and can make throws from anywhere on the field. His ability to read defenses and execute a pro-style offense makes him the favorite to be the first quarterback selected. Johnson’s pocket presence and leadership qualities also make him an attractive option for teams looking for a franchise signal-caller. Some scouts have compared him to past elite quarterbacks due to his ability to elevate the play of those around him.

2. Jaxon Daniels – LSU

A dynamic dual-threat quarterback, Daniels is one of the most exciting prospects in this draft class. He can extend plays with his legs, escape the pocket, and make accurate throws on the run. His ability to read defenses has improved significantly, and he has demonstrated the poise necessary to lead a team at the next level. While some teams may have concerns about his size and ability to handle the physicality of the NFL, his playmaking ability and leadership skills make him a strong candidate for a top selection.

3. Bryce McCallister – Alabama

McCallister has an incredible football IQ and can dissect defenses with ease. His deep-ball accuracy and ability to lead his team in high-pressure moments make him one of the most sought-after quarterbacks in the draft. He has played in some of the biggest games in college football and has shown an ability to perform when the spotlight is brightest. However, some teams may have concerns about his durability due to past injuries. If he can stay healthy, McCallister has the potential to be a long-term starter in the NFL.

4. Malik Thompson – Ohio State

Thompson is an athletic quarterback with a strong arm and quick decision-making. He’s shown flashes of brilliance but will need to improve his consistency at the next level. His ability to make plays both inside and outside the pocket makes him a valuable prospect for teams looking to modernize their offense. Some scouts believe he has the potential to be a franchise quarterback, while others think he may need time to develop before he’s ready to start in the NFL.

5. Tyler Grayson – Texas

Grayson is a traditional pocket passer with pinpoint accuracy and excellent field vision. His mechanics and ability to go through progressions make him one of the most pro-ready quarterbacks in this class. However, his mobility is a concern for teams looking for a more versatile signal-caller. While he doesn’t have the escapability of some other top prospects, Grayson makes up for it with his precision and ability to read defenses. If he lands in the right system, he could thrive as a starter early in his career.

6. Dante Rivera – Oregon

Rivera is one of the most athletic quarterbacks in the draft. He can turn broken plays into big gains and has the arm talent to make any throw. While he needs to refine his mechanics and improve his footwork, his raw ability makes him a potential star. His dual-threat nature will appeal to teams that want a mobile quarterback who can create plays on the move. Rivera’s biggest challenge will be proving he can succeed in an NFL offense that requires more precision and structured decision-making.

7. Cole Manning – Michigan

Manning is a tough, smart quarterback with a strong arm and natural leadership qualities. He excels at making pre-snap adjustments and reading defenses, making him an ideal fit for a system that requires a high level of intelligence from the quarterback position. Some scouts question his ability to make plays outside the pocket, but his intangibles and ability to manage the game effectively make him a strong prospect. Manning has been compared to some of the best game managers in recent years, and if he lands in the right situation, he could have a long and productive NFL career.

8. Spencer Wallace – Penn State

Wallace has one of the quickest releases in college football and shows great touch on his throws. He’s an accurate passer who excels in short and intermediate routes but needs to improve his decision-making under pressure. If he can handle the increased speed of the NFL game and make better choices when the pocket collapses, he has the potential to develop into a quality starter. Wallace is a sleeper pick in this draft class, and with the right coaching, he could exceed expectations at the next level.

9. Eli Carter – Florida State

Carter is a high-upside prospect with a big arm and excellent mobility. He has all the physical tools to be a starting NFL quarterback, but he needs to work on his footwork and consistency. His ability to escape pressure and make deep throws on the run is impressive, but some teams may be hesitant to invest in him due to his tendency to rely too much on his natural ability rather than refining his technique. If he lands with a patient coaching staff, Carter could develop into a dangerous weapon at the professional level.

10. Noah Harris – Washington

Harris is a steady, reliable quarterback who may not have elite athleticism but makes up for it with smart decision-making and accuracy. He projects as a strong backup with the potential to develop into a starter. While he doesn’t have the flashiness of some of the other top quarterbacks, Harris is a player who can step in and run an offense effectively. Teams looking for a dependable option who won’t make costly mistakes may see Harris as a valuable addition.

Conclusion

The 2025 NFL Draft is loaded with quarterback talent, with each player bringing something different to the table. Whether a team is looking for a polished pocket passer, a mobile playmaker, or a high-ceiling project, this draft class has it all. With the importance of the quarterback position in today’s NFL, teams will be carefully evaluating each prospect to find the best fit for their offensive system.

As draft day approaches, expect plenty of debate over who should be the first quarterback off the board. Some teams will prioritize experience and polish, while others may be willing to take a chance on upside and athleticism. Regardless of the approach, these ten quarterbacks represent the future of the league, and their performances in the coming years will determine who becomes the next NFL superstar.

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