Analyzing the Weaknesses of Top Quarterback Prospects in the 2025 Draft Class

As we dive into the intriguing landscape of the upcoming 2025 NFL Draft, many analysts have labeled this year’s quarterback class as comparatively underwhelming. Nevertheless, this provides a unique opportunity to identify individual flaws in each quarterback's game. In this article, we’ll explore the key weaknesses of the top 10 quarterback prospects, assessing how these challenges might affect their success at the professional level.

1. Cameron Ward – Miami (FL)

⚠️ Kryptonite: Ball Placement

Cameron Ward stands out as the consensus top quarterback prospect in 2025, boasting impressive arm strength and athleticism. However, his ball placement remains a notable concern. Ranking ninth in on-frame accuracy and seventh in uncatchable inaccurate throws among top quarterbacks, Ward’s precision needs significant improvement. For him to thrive in the NFL, focusing on refining his ball placement will be a vital area for development.

2. Shedeur Sanders – Colorado

⚠️ Kryptonite: Excessive Sacks Taken

Shedeur Sanders has faced a concerning number of sacks during his college journey. This issue arises partly from a less-than-stellar offensive line at Colorado and his tendency to hold onto the ball for too long while searching for extended plays. Although some collegiate quarterbacks can absorb sacks against milder competition, in the NFL, this habit can significantly hinder a team's drives.

Predicting which quarterbacks can overcome this tendency is tough. Some, like Jayden Daniels, improved their performance under pressure in their first NFL seasons. On the other hand, others, like Caleb Williams, who had a lower sack rate in college, faced challenges in transitioning to the pros. If Sanders can enhance his pocket awareness and decision-making skills, he possesses the tools needed to evolve into a successful NFL quarterback.

3. Jalen Milroe – Alabama

⚠️ Kryptonite: Inconsistent Accuracy

For those who have observed Milroe in action, it will come as no surprise that accuracy is a significant challenge in his game. He ranks last in both on-frame accuracy and uncatchable inaccurate rate among quarterbacks in this draft class—by a considerable margin. His accuracy rate on throws between 5 and 25 yards is particularly concerning, falling behind even the next least accurate quarterback.

Interestingly, his overall accuracy metrics bear a resemblance to Lamar Jackson's final college season, albeit slightly better. The notable difference lies in Jackson's exceptional explosiveness and efficiency as a runner. Milroe must elevate his accuracy, but he will also need to rely on his athleticism to buy time while improving his skills in the professional arena. There’s hope for his development, as some of his mechanical issues can be addressed.

4. Will Howard – Ohio State

⚠️ Kryptonite: Struggles When Out of Rhythm

A common challenge for quarterbacks is maintaining their rhythm, particularly when facing pressure or tight coverage. Among the quarterbacks in this draft, none managed to produce a positive Expected Points Added (EPA) per dropback in such scenarios. Howard recorded the lowest grade in this regard, along with a failure to execute big-time throws.

Though Ohio State's offensive scheme helped him stay in rhythm most of the time, transitioning to the NFL will level the playing field, requiring him to adapt to a more demanding environment.

5. Riley Leonard – Notre Dame

⚠️ Kryptonite: Generating Positive Throws

Riley Leonard provided Notre Dame with a much-needed foundation at quarterback, showcasing his playmaking ability with his legs. However, throughout his college career, he generated only a modest number of big-time throws. Ranking in the second percentile among college quarterbacks for producing positively graded passes highlights an area that requires attention.

Utilizing his strengths effectively, particularly as a facilitator, has been crucial. However, to carve out a lasting NFL career, Leonard needs to refine his throwing capabilities to become a more impactful playmaker with his arm.

6. Jaxson Dart – Ole Miss

⚠️ Kryptonite: Inconsistency in the Two-Minute Drill

Over his tenure at Ole Miss, Jaxson Dart has shown improvement in various aspects of his game. However, succeeding in two-minute situations remains a tangible hurdle. His grades in this critical area have been underwhelming, with no standout performances in last season's two-minute drills.

In comparing his two-minute drill performance with peers like Shedeur Sanders and Cameron Ward, it's evident that Dart has a way to go to rise to their level. Although steps toward improvement have been made, these seem to be only marginal, requiring further progress to be a reliable performer in crucial game situations.

7. Dillon Gabriel – Oregon

⚠️ Kryptonite: Size Concerns

When evaluating Dillon Gabriel, several admirable qualities surface. His decision-making and accuracy contribute positively to offensive flow. However, a key concern lies in his size, which poses limitations. Measuring at just under 5-foot-11, he ranks low in terms of height among NFL quarterbacks, raising questions about durability and the ability to withstand the rigors of a professional season.

Given that Gabriel had previously suffered a clavicle injury, concerns surrounding his size and potential for injuries may persist as he transitions to the NFL level.

8. Quinn Ewers – Texas

⚠️ Kryptonite: Performance Under Pressure

Quinn Ewers demonstrated potential in his junior year but struggled with pressure situations. He found it challenging to execute effective late-game comebacks, finishing at the bottom in pressured-passing grades. The Texas offense struggled significantly when under pressure, further compounding the issue.

To make a mark as an NFL quarterback, Ewers will need to adapt his game to excel in high-pressure scenarios, an area where many quarterbacks face substantial hurdles.

9. Kyle McCord – Syracuse

⚠️ Kryptonite: Lacking Athleticism

After taking the reins at Ohio State, Kyle McCord transitioned to Syracuse, where he displayed noticeable growth. Despite several strengths, his lack of athleticism raises concerns. With limited mobility, marked by low running yardage and infrequent designed runs, it will be vital for him to leverage his processing capabilities effectively to succeed as an NFL quarterback.

Although he maintains composure under pressure, physical limitations could hinder his ability to extend plays, compelling him to focus on honing his mental acumen.

10. Tyler Shough – Louisville

⚠️ Kryptonite: Struggles with Pressure

Tyler Shough has garnered attention but faces significant challenges, especially under pressure. His performance in these situations has been problematic, showcasing one of the lowest success rates in the draft class.

Although capable of elevated play in favorable conditions, his ongoing difficulties in high-pressure environments could be detrimental as he progresses in his professional career.

⚔️ Conclusion

As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, evaluating these quarterback prospects reveals significant weaknesses that could shape their NFL trajectories. While potential exists within each of these candidates, addressing these key areas will be crucial if they aim to make their mark in the league. It's an exciting journey for fans and teams alike as they track the development of these young quarterbacks in the coming years! 🏈