Every year in college football, one of the biggest changes to the overall outlook comes thanks to the quarterback position. Which players return where and which new arrivals could star is a key component of offseason evaluation. So, who are the top quarterbacks in 2025?
Highlighting the Best: On3 Impact Top 25 Quarterbacks
On3 has compiled a list of the On3 Impact Top 25 quarterbacks in college football, shining a spotlight on the best of the best. This ranking takes into account a blend of proven production and potential based on skill set. Let’s dive into the standout players who are set to shape the landscape of college football in 2025.
Leavitt’s Rise to Stardom
Few players went from off the radar to firmly in the national spotlight like Leavitt did with Arizona State in 2024. The Michigan State transfer instantly took charge of the offense and helped lead the Sun Devils to the College Football Playoff.
In terms of numbers, Leavitt threw for 2,885 yards and 24 touchdowns against just six interceptions. He also added 443 rushing yards and five scores to his impressive stats. As he gears up for the 2025 campaign, there’s plenty of room for improvement in both his passing and rushing totals.
Allar’s Commanding Performance
Like Leavitt, Allar led Penn State to a conference title game and a College Football Playoff appearance. Although he will need to work on improving his completion percentages against high-quality opponents, Allar proved he can handle the pressure of big moments.
With 3,327 passing yards and 24 touchdowns against eight interceptions, he also contributed with 302 rushing yards and six scores. With another year of experience under his belt, Allar is poised to be even more confident next fall.
Florida’s Freshman Sensation
The Florida freshman, DJ Lagway, emerged as a revelation after stepping in for the injured Graham Mertz. While there were some growing pains, Lagway showcased clear markers that suggest he is destined for greatness.
Notably, he is one of the best deep-ball throwers in the country. If Lagway can develop more touch on his short- and mid-range throws, he will become a truly lethal weapon. It’s also worth noting that he is a more capable runner than what was seen in 2024, as he was nursing a hamstring injury.
Manning’s Impressive Backup Role
In Texas, Arch Manning made a name for himself during his relief action early in the 2024 season. His performance sparked calls for him to take over as the starter, but Steve Sarkisian ultimately stuck with Quinn Ewers. Nevertheless, the luxury of having a backup as capable as Manning is undeniable.
Manning finished the season with 939 passing yards and nine touchdowns, while throwing only two interceptions and rushing for four scores. With the stage set for the Arch Manning show in 2025, fans should buckle up for an exciting ride.
Sellers’ Remarkable Turnaround
When it comes to remarkable turnarounds, it’s tough to beat what Sellers engineered at South Carolina. Battling through injury early in the season, he still managed to lead the Gamecocks to nine wins, marking their best season under Shane Beamer.
Sellers tallied 2,534 passing yards and 18 touchdowns, while also rushing for 674 yards and seven scores. With even more experience heading into 2025, he looks to build on this success.
Nussmeier’s Grit and Determination
The LSU quarterback, Garrett Nussmeier, may not have a toughness metric, but if he did, he would be at the top. Despite facing heavy pressure throughout the 2024 season, Nussmeier consistently stepped up and delivered.
However, cutting down on turnovers will be crucial in 2025, as he finished the year with 12 interceptions. Despite this, his numbers are impressive: 4,052 passing yards and 29 touchdowns.
Beck’s Transition to Miami
After a mixed season in 2024, Carson Beck transferred from Georgia to Miami. While he struggled with 12 interceptions, when he’s on his game, he’s as effective as anyone in college football. Beck wrapped up the 2024 campaign with 3,485 passing yards and 28 touchdowns.
He’ll face the challenge of working with a Miami roster that is undergoing some retooling but has made solid additions through the transfer portal.
Klubnik’s Redemption Arc
After a first season as a starter that raised questions about his potential, Cade Klubnik bounced back in 2024. He significantly improved as a passer, delivering an excellent performance throughout the season.
Although Clemson didn’t advance in the College Football Playoff, it wasn’t due to Klubnik’s efforts. He threw for 336 yards and three touchdowns in their loss to Texas. By the end of the year, he had amassed 3,639 passing yards and 36 touchdowns against just six interceptions, alongside 463 rushing yards and seven scores.
Iamaleava’s Potential
The Tennessee quarterback, Nico Iamaleava, didn’t explode onto the scene as many expected, partly due to an outstanding defense that limited his opportunities. However, his immense potential remains clear.
Iamaleava can be one of the best dual-threat quarterbacks in college football, and he is looking to build on a season where he threw for 2,616 yards and 19 touchdowns, while also rushing for 358 yards and three touchdowns.
On3 Impact Top 25 Quarterback Rankings: 11-25
11. Josh Hoover, TCU
12. Taylen Green, Arkansas
13. Eli Holstein, Pittsburgh
14. Diego Pavia, Vanderbilt
15. CJ Bailey, NC State
16. Darian Mensah, Duke
17. Behren Morton, Texas Tech
18. Sawyer Robertson, Baylor
19. Rocco Becht, Iowa State
20. Avery Johnson, Kansas State
21. Luke Altmyer, Illinois
22. Jayden Maiava, USC
23. Dylan Raiola, Nebraska
24. Miller Moss, Louisville
25. Julian Sayin, Ohio State
As we look ahead to the 2025 season, these quarterbacks are set to make waves in college football. Their journeys, filled with challenges and triumphs, will undoubtedly keep fans on the edge of their seats. Who will rise to the occasion and lead their teams to glory? Only time will tell!
