The 2025 NFL Draft class has been below the microscope for months, however one evident concern is already surfacing: a scarcity of true first-round quarterbacks. Regardless of the hype surrounding Cam Ward (Miami) and Shedeur Sanders (Colorado), a high NFL expertise evaluator has revealed that neither passer carries a real Spherical 1 grade heading into the draft course of.
Yearly, NFL groups grade prospects primarily based on their total expertise, not simply their positional worth. Whereas 32 gamers are chosen within the first spherical, fewer than 20 usually earn true first-round grades. In 2025, that quantity is traditionally low, with simply 12 gamers incomes the elite distinction. That’s a big drop in comparison with 18 in 2024 and 20 in 2023.
Among the many notable omissions? Quarterbacks Ward and Sanders, each extensively projected as top-five picks as a result of league’s fixed demand for franchise passers. Nonetheless, when in comparison with final 12 months’s class—which featured Caleb Williams, Jayden Daniels, Drake Maye, and J.J. McCarthy—neither Ward nor Sanders would have cracked the highest tier.
NFL Scout says no QBs within the 2025 Draft Class are first-round skills.
“Each Sanders and Ward are proficient and have the potential to rise within the pre-draft course of, however I wouldn’t be snug calling them first-round prospects primarily based on this previous season’s tape,” the scout defined.
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This doesn’t imply they received’t be drafted early. In actual fact, historical past suggests they nearly definitely might be. Quarterbacks are at all times pushed up the board due to positional worth. Even in years the place the expertise pool is weaker, groups determined for a signal-caller will attain to safe their future below middle.
Ward, a dynamic passer with spectacular mobility, transferred to Miami for his last collegiate season. Whereas his arm expertise is simple, his decision-making and consistency have raised considerations amongst scouts. Equally, Sanders, son of NFL Corridor of Famer Deion Sanders, confirmed flashes of brilliance at Colorado however was usually hampered by poor offensive line play and struggled in opposition to top-tier defenses.
The 2025 draft class doesn’t boast a clear-cut elite quarterback, however groups just like the Chicago Bears, Washington Commanders, and New England Patriots—all choosing within the high 5—are anticipated to prioritize the place regardless.
Because the draft course of unfolds, each Ward and Sanders could have alternatives to vary perceptions by professional days, the NFL Mix, and personal exercises. However because it stands now, neither quarterback is taken into account a can’t-miss, Day 1 expertise—a reality that might make for an unpredictable first spherical in April.