Cam Ward and Shedeur Sanders are dominating the conversation surrounding the upcoming 2025 NFL Draft. As the top two quarterback prospects, both are expected to be first-round picks, with strong odds of landing in the coveted top 10. In fact, there’s a real possibility that one of these talented players could be selected No. 1 overall by the Tennessee Titans. But what does this mean for the future of the NFL?
Shifting Dynamics in the Draft
In the lead-up to the draft, the buzz is palpable. Recent NFL mock drafts have shown a surprising trend: both Ward and Sanders are being pushed down the board. Why? Standout players like two-way star Travis Hunter and edge rusher Abdul Carter are stealing the spotlight. This ongoing debate is sure to heat up as we approach the draft in late April, set to take place in Green Bay, Wisconsin. Fans can expect a flurry of mock drafts to emerge, updated weekly, and sometimes even daily.
What If Underclassmen Were Eligible?
Imagine a world where college football’s underclassmen could enter this year’s draft. This intriguing scenario has been explored by Fox Sports NFL Draft analyst Rob Rang, and it could dramatically reshape the first round—and potentially the entire draft landscape.
In his speculative “what-if?” mock draft, Rang makes a bold prediction: Arch Manning, currently playing a limited role for the Texas Longhorns, would be selected No. 1 overall by the Titans. This is a game-changer!
Arch Manning’s Rise
Rang elaborates on Manning’s potential, stating, “In this all-available scenario, any franchise lacking a long-term lock at quarterback would be canvassing the country for the top prospect.” Despite a small sample size, Manning has already shown impressive size, arm strength, accuracy, and athleticism. He has the makings of a future NFL star, much like his famous uncles and grandfather.
But what about the other top prospects?
Cam Ward’s Journey
Ward, who made headlines this past season while playing for Miami, could see his draft stock take an unexpected turn. According to Rang, he would fall all the way down to the Pittsburgh Steelers at No. 21. This raises an interesting question: could the Steelers opt to bring back either Justin Fields or Russell Wilson? Rang suggests they might not if it were guaranteed that one of this year’s top quarterbacks would be available.
Ward has the highlight reels and the remarkable ascent to warrant his Heisman campaign and early first-round projections. However, there are lingering questions about whether his improvisational style will translate to the NFL. “I think it can,” Rang notes, “but also believe he needs the support of a stout running game and defense like Pittsburgh’s early on.”
Shedeur Sanders’ Future
As for Shedeur Sanders, he’s projected to fall even further, landing at No. 26 with the Los Angeles Rams. This could set the stage for a future transition away from Matthew Stafford.
Rang points out, “Matthew Stafford remains one of the NFL’s best quarterbacks, but for a general manager like Les Snead, famously willing to flip those picks, using them to invest in the long-term future of the club might be the best way to keep winning.” While Sanders may not be a blue-chip quarterback prospect, he possesses the intelligence and arm strength to thrive in the NFL. After all, he led the country in passing yards this past season while operating out of former NFL head coach Pat Shurmur’s offense.
At this point in the draft, Sanders’ upside is too enticing to overlook, especially for a young coach like Sean McVay in a big market like Los Angeles that is always on the hunt for fresh talent.
The Impact of NIL Deals
This speculative “what-if?” scenario is not just a fun exercise; it adds another layer of intrigue to the upcoming draft. However, for college football fans, the reality of underclassmen entering the draft might feel more like a nightmare than a dream. With NIL deals keeping many players in college longer, the prospect of seeing top talent jump to the pros early could fundamentally alter the landscape of the sport.
Rang’s hypothetical mock draft presents an exciting alternative reality, but the likelihood of these changes actually occurring remains a fantasy for now.
Looking Ahead
As we gear up for the NFL Draft, the focus will undoubtedly remain on the futures of Ward, Sanders, and Manning. Will the Titans take a chance on the young quarterback with the famous last name? Will teams like the Steelers and Rams find their franchise quarterbacks in this draft?
One thing is for sure: the excitement is building, and fans are eager to see how it all unfolds. The 2025 NFL Draft promises to be a thrilling event, filled with surprises and potential shifts in the power dynamics of the league. Stay tuned, because this is just the beginning!
