The first-ever 12-team College Football Playoff officially kicks off this weekend, providing a unique national showcase for a handful of talented quarterbacks that could be weighing their next step. This playoff is not just an opportunity for teams to vie for the championship; it’s also a pivotal moment for several standout quarterbacks who are eyeing their futures in the NFL.
Returning Stars and Their Impact
Meanwhile, several collegiate QBs have already made up their minds and opted to forgo the 2025 NFL Draft to return to college. The biggest name among those coming back is Penn State‘s Drew Allar, who made his intentions known this past week. His decision has significant implications for the upcoming draft landscape.
Allar’s choice has forced ESPN NFL Draft expert Mel Kiper Jr. to overhaul his list of the Top 10 draft-eligible quarterbacks. With Allar staying put, the competition for the top spots in the draft has become even more intense. Kiper’s updated rankings reflect the shifting dynamics of the quarterback class.
Quarterback Profiles to Watch
One of the most exciting quarterbacks to watch this postseason is Shedeur Sanders, the son of NFL legend and Buffaloes head coach Deion Sanders. In his second season in Boulder, Sanders led the FBS with a 74.2 completion percentage while throwing for an impressive 3,926 yards and 35 touchdowns in 2024.
Kiper praised Sanders, stating, “You won’t find a tougher or more resilient quarterback prospect than Sanders, who has taken 90 sacks over the past two seasons but still puts up really strong numbers.” His ability to throw accurately on the move and his strong arm make him a compelling prospect.
Another quarterback making waves is Cam Ward, who finished fourth in the 2024 Heisman Trophy voting. Ward established himself as a sure-fire early first-round draft pick after leading the ACC’s No. 1-ranked offense. He threw for a FBS-best 36 touchdowns, ranking second with 4,123 yards and a 67.4 completion percentage. Kiper noted, “Ward has an unorthodox delivery, but he throws with accuracy and velocity from different arm angles.”
Emerging Talents and Their Journeys
The Alabama quarterback Jalen Milroe continues to showcase his unique talent, demonstrating electric speed and rare playmaking ability. Despite some inconsistencies in his first season under new head coach Kalen DeBoer, Milroe’s raw talent is undeniable. He led the SEC with 35 total touchdowns in 2024, including 20 on the ground, drawing comparisons to dynamic Baltimore QB Lamar Jackson.
Meanwhile, Carson Beck of Georgia remains an intriguing prospect, although his future is uncertain due to a pending elbow surgery. Beck has been productive, boasting a 24-3 record as a starter with 7,426 passing yards and 56 touchdowns over the past two seasons. His potential remains high, and he could be a valuable addition to any NFL team.
Another name to consider is Quinn Ewers, who was expected to enter the 2025 NFL Draft but is now contemplating another season in college. With the emergence of Arch Manning at Texas, Ewers might have to consider his options. Kiper suggested, “If you want to play college football, you probably have to move on somewhere.”
Consistent Performers Making Their Mark
The Indiana quarterback Dexter Rourke has been the definition of consistency this season, leading his team to a Cinderella-like year with their first-ever CFP appearance. Rourke completed 70.4% of his passes for 2,827 yards and ranked second in the Big Ten with 27 touchdowns. A strong performance in the Playoff could elevate his draft stock significantly.
In his third season running Lane Kiffin‘s high-powered offense, Jaxson Dart has made a compelling case for himself as an NFL-caliber QB. He led the SEC in passing with 3,875 yards and had a 25-to-6 touchdown-to-interception ratio. Dart’s impressive career totals of 10,163 passing yards and 68 touchdowns over three years put him firmly on the radar for NFL teams.
Another noteworthy player is Dillon Gabriel, who has been a journeyman QB throughout his six-year collegiate career. He led Oregon to an undefeated regular season and a Big Ten championship, finishing third in the Heisman Trophy voting. Gabriel’s consistency is impressive, with a 73.2 completion percentage and 3,558 yards this season.
Finally, Kyle McCord, the former Ohio State transfer, had a solid season at Syracuse with 4,326 passing yards and 29 touchdowns. While he struggled with interceptions, his physical attributes and past performances make him an intriguing Day 3 option for NFL teams.
Looking Ahead
As the College Football Playoff unfolds, all eyes will be on these quarterbacks and their potential futures. With the draft landscape shifting and players weighing their options, this weekend’s games could have lasting implications for many of these talented athletes. The excitement is palpable, and the stakes have never been higher. Who will rise to the occasion and solidify their place in the NFL? Only time will tell, but one thing is for sure: college football is alive with thrilling possibilities.
