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The 2025 NFL Draft is shaping up to be one of the most intriguing in recent memory, particularly when it comes to the quarterback position. At the center of the discussion are Shedeur Sanders and Cam Ward, two prospects who have sparked heated debates. While both graded well in our evaluations, I firmly believe that neither should be a top-5 pick unless a team is fully convinced of their long-term potential. Here's why NFL teams might be better off exploring alternative options.
💡 Exploring Trades Over Drafting
For teams like the Tennessee Titans, New York Giants, or Las Vegas Raiders, trading for an established or rising quarterback could be a smarter strategy than gambling on a first-round quarterback. Here are three trade options that make sense:
🔄 J.J. McCarthy
If J.J. McCarthy were part of the 2025 draft class, he would unquestionably be QB1. His elite combination of accuracy, poise under pressure, mobility, and leadership makes him the most NFL-ready quarterback of this generation. Whether it’s threading tight-window throws or extending plays with his legs, McCarthy consistently delivers at a high level. For a team like the Giants, who are desperate for a long-term solution, trading for McCarthy could be a franchise-altering move.
🔄 Joe Milton
Joe Milton’s NFL debut was nothing short of electric. His elite arm strength, rare athleticism, and ability to make off-platform throws give him one of the highest ceilings among quarterbacks in recent years. While questions about his consistency remain, Milton’s physical tools and upside could make him a game-changer in the right system. If he were part of this draft, Milton would have a strong argument as QB2, and in some cases, even QB1. For the Raiders, Milton’s high-upside playmaking ability could be the perfect fit for their future.
💡 Sam Darnold (Vikings)
Sam Darnold has quietly revitalized his career in Minnesota. Improved decision-making, better mechanics, and flashes of the talent that made him a first-round pick have all been on display. With the Vikings potentially looking to make offseason moves, Darnold could become a fascinating trade target. For teams like the Titans or Jets, he offers a plug-and-play solution that can stabilize the position while allowing them to address other roster needs in the draft.
🔻 Drafting for Value, Not Hype
The reality is that Shedeur Sanders and Cam Ward will likely be drafted higher than their grades warrant due to positional value. On our board, both project as mid-first-round prospects, where the value makes sense. However, taking either in the top 5 or even top 10 would be a reach based on our evaluations. That said, teams like the Raiders (pick 6) or Jets (pick 7) could make a case for drafting them based on need.
💎 Day 2 Quarterback Options
For teams willing to wait, this draft class offers intriguing Day 2 options with significant developmental upside:
Kyle McCord: A high-upside passer who has shown flashes of brilliance. With the right coaching and system, McCord could thrive as a future starter.
Carson Beck: Polished mechanics and excellent poise make Beck a solid Day 2 option for teams seeking stability at the position.
Jalen Milroe: A traits-based prospect with elite athleticism and a sky-high ceiling if he can refine his game. Milroe’s raw tools make him a fascinating project for any QB-needy team.
🔥 What’s Next?
We’re actively re-grading and finalizing our Top 100 prospects in preparation for the NFL Combine. Expect our updated Top 50 rankings to drop next week, featuring revised QB rankings based on grades and the finalized list of declared players. This year’s quarterback class is shaping up to be a fascinating study, and the changes to our board will reflect ongoing evaluations.