Destined for Greatness: The Sleeper QBs of the 2025 NFL Draft by Nick Barbalinardo on IG: @Nickbarbalinardo and on Twitter/X: @NickBarb2
The Urgent Search for a Franchise Signal-Caller
With the 2025 NFL Draft fast approaching, teams throughout the league are closely evaluating a remarkable group of quarterback prospects. From dual-threat dynamos to pocket-passing tacticians, this year’s class appears primed to leave a lasting mark on the pro landscape. Below, we explore six sleeper signal-callers- Jalen Milroe, Jaxson Dart, Quinn Ewers, Kyle McCord, Will Howard, and Cameron (Cam) Rising and how they might suit five QB-starved franchises. We’ll also look at how Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) policies and the transfer portal influenced these emerging stars.
Meet the Contenders
Jalen Milroe (Alabama)
Passing: 2,844 yds | 16 TDs | 11 INTs
Rushing: 726 yds | 20 TDs
Quick Take: A lethal blend of speed and arm strength, Milroe punished SEC defenses with eye-catching runs and timely passes.
Jaxson Dart (Ole Miss)
Passing: 4,279 yds | 29 TDs | 6 INTs
Rushing: 495 yds | 3 TDs
Quick Take: Dart flourished under Lane Kiffin’s high-octane system, consistently torching defenses with aggressive downfield throws.
Quinn Ewers (Texas)
Passing: 3,472 yds | 31 TDs | 12 INTs
Rushing: -82 yds | 2 TDs
Quick Take: Boasting an impressive arm and quick release, Ewers spearheaded Texas’ offense, despite occasionally surrendering yardage to sacks.
Kyle McCord (Syracuse)
Passing: 4,779 yds | 34 TDs | 12 INTs
Rushing: -65 yds | 3 TDs
Quick Take: Transferring to Syracuse unlocked McCord’s potential as a prolific passer, showcasing razor-sharp reads and fluid pocket play.
Will Howard (Ohio State)
Passing: 4,010 yds | 35 TDs | 10 INTs
Rushing: 226 yds | 7 TDs
Quick Take: Howard thrived in the Buckeyes’ explosive system, pairing downfield accuracy with surprising rushing prowess, and resulting in a National Championship.
Cameron (Cam) Rising (Utah)
Passing: 555 yds | 7 TDs | 3 INTs
Rushing: 33 yds | 0 TDs
Quick Take: Rising’s season was cut short due to injury, but his earlier displays of toughness, leadership, and poise keep him on the radar.
NIL & The Transfer Portal: Changing the Game
NIL Deals = Better-Prepared Athletes: Several QBs leveraged endorsements to remain in college longer, refining mechanics and game intelligence.
Portal Power: Transfers, like Kyle McCord’s move from Ohio State to Syracuse, allowed quarterbacks to find systems perfectly suited to their skill sets, leading to more polished performances on the field.
5 Teams Searching for a Leader
Pittsburgh Steelers: Jalen Milroe
Why Milroe? Pittsburgh’s physical style meshes with Milroe’s ability to bulldoze defenders and spark big plays on the ground.
Los Angeles Rams: Kyle McCord
Why McCord? As the Rams evaluate their future under center, McCord’s timing-based precision aligns with a scheme demanding efficient passing.
New Orleans Saints: Cameron (Cam) Rising
Why Rising? Despite an abbreviated season, Rising’s grit and calm under pressure fit the Saints’ penchant for a resourceful quarterback presence.
Seattle Seahawks: Jaxson Dart
Why Dart? Head coach Michael Macdonald recently added Sam Darnold, but Dart would be an enticing developmental option—one who can air it out and improvise behind a veteran mentor.
Miami Dolphins: Quinn Ewers
Why Ewers? Ewers’ deep-ball accuracy suits Miami’s stable of speedy receivers; further refinement could elevate the Dolphins’ aerial attack.
Final Word
Ultimately, the 2025 NFL Draft stands as a pivotal event for franchises and fans alike, with teams eager to claim their next offensive cornerstone. Whether it’s Milroe’s dual-threat mastery or Dart’s fearless downfield approach, each of these quarterbacks has the potential to reshape the league’s competitive landscape. As the countdown unfolds, stay tuned for comprehensive analysis, in-depth scouting reports, and every crucial update heading into a highly anticipated NFL draft.
I am a 22-year-old senior at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, currently completing my first semester of senior year with an expected graduation in December of 2025. I am pursuing a double major in Sports Law and Finance, along with a minor in Marketing. My lifelong passion for the NFL fuels from a young age as it has been a dream since childhood to become an NFLPA-certified players agent, and while I appreciate every aspect of the National Football League, I am especially devoted to the Philadelphia Eagles.
