Bowl season is in full swing for the college football world, the 12-team College Football Playoff is underway, and the 2025 NFL Draft looms large above it all. With so much happening, it’s an exciting time for fans, players, and analysts alike. As we gear up for the draft, some NFL-eligible quarterbacks have clearly distinguished themselves from the pack. ESPN’s Jordan Reid has taken the time to rank the top 12 quarterbacks as we approach this pivotal season.
Top Quarterbacks to Watch
Some names, like Cam Ward and Shedeur Sanders, have been at the forefront of discussions all season long. Their performances have caught the eye of scouts and fans, making them key players to watch as we head into the draft. However, the College Football Playoff is also providing a platform for other quarterbacks, including Dillon Gabriel, Quinn Ewers, and Will Howard, to showcase their skills and improve their draft stock.
Cam Ward: The Standout Performer
Cam Ward’s exciting brand of football may not be on display in the College Football Playoff, but he remains the top option for the 2025 NFL Draft, according to Reid. Despite Miami’s loss to Syracuse in Week 14, Ward’s impressive statistics speak volumes. He has thrown for 4,123 yards, 36 touchdowns, and just seven interceptions, boasting a remarkable 88.0 QBR, which ranks No. 1 in the nation. Barring any unforeseen setbacks, he is likely to be one of the first quarterbacks selected in April.
Shedeur Sanders: A Rising Star
Both Shedeur Sanders and Travis Hunter are set to play in Colorado’s bowl game against BYU on December 28. This matchup presents a crucial opportunity for Sanders to solidify his position in the draft. Entering bowl season, he has amassed 3,926 passing yards, a 74.2% completion rate, 35 touchdowns, and eight interceptions. His efficiency has been a game-changer for the Buffaloes, making him one of the most exciting quarterbacks in college football.
Dillon Gabriel: The Heisman Finalist
Dillon Gabriel stands out as the only quarterback who has yet to suffer a defeat this season. His performance at Oregon has been nothing short of stellar, earning him a spot as a Heisman Trophy finalist and leading his team to a Big Ten Championship. With a completion rate of 73.2% (297-406), 28 touchdowns, and six interceptions, Gabriel is also responsible for seven rushing touchdowns. His first-round bye in the College Football Playoff is a testament to his exceptional play.
Quinn Ewers: Battling Expectations
Quinn Ewers had a challenging outing in the SEC Championship game, but he did everything possible to keep his team competitive. Despite throwing two critical interceptions, he still managed to pass for 358 yards and a touchdown. Over the season, he has tallied 2,665 passing yards and 25 touchdowns against nine interceptions. With Arch Manning looming over him, Ewers has performed admirably, though a return to college football isn’t out of the question.
Will Howard: A Strong Finish
Will Howard’s journey at Ohio State has been a mixed bag, but he recently showcased his potential on a big stage. In a standout performance against Tennessee during the CFP First Round, he completed 24 of 29 passes for two touchdowns and 311 yards. His regular-season numbers were solid, and if he continues to play at this level, he could see his draft stock rise significantly.
Jaxson Dart: Record-Breaking Season
Jaxson Dart has rewritten the record books at Ole Miss during his 2024 campaign. With 3,875 passing yards, he leads the SEC, and his 84.7 QBR ranks fourth nationally. He boasts a remarkable 25-6 touchdown-to-interception ratio. Dart has already committed to playing in the Gator Bowl against Duke on January 2, where he aims to add to his impressive statistics.
Carson Beck: A Tough Break
Carson Beck’s season took a turn when he was injured during Georgia’s SEC Championship victory over Texas. With 3,485 passing yards, 28 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions, his performance had been promising. However, the injury may prevent him from proving himself further unless he decides to return to Athens for another season.
Max Brosmer and Tyler Shough: Efficient Playmakers
Max Brosmer has flown under the radar this season, but his efficiency has been noteworthy. After transferring to Minnesota, he helped lead the Golden Gophers to a 7-5 record, passing for 2,617 yards, 17 touchdowns, and just five interceptions. Meanwhile, Tyler Shough has had a rollercoaster college career, but his best season came at Louisville, where he threw for 3,195 yards, 23 touchdowns, and six interceptions. His experience in various offenses could be beneficial at the next level.
Kurtis Rourke: A Proven Competitor
Kurtis Rourke has made a name for himself after transferring from Ohio. With 2,927 passing yards, 27 touchdowns, and just four interceptions, he has shown that he can compete at a high level. His recent performance against Notre Dame was disappointing, but his overall season has been impressive, especially considering he led his team to the College Football Playoff.
As we move deeper into bowl season and the draft approaches, the spotlight will shine even brighter on these quarterbacks. Who will rise to the occasion, and who will leave a lasting impression? Only time will tell, but one thing is for sure: the excitement of college football and the journey to the NFL Draft is just getting started!
