The 2025 NFL Draft features several intriguing quarterback prospects outside the expected top picks. While Cam Ward appears to be solidifying his case as the Tennessee Titans‘ pick with the No. 1 overall selection, the upcoming quarterback class hasn’t generated the same excitement as last year’s group that saw six signal-callers taken in the top 12 picks.
In what’s viewed as a lackluster year for top-end talent behind center, some teams might approach the available options cautiously – especially when considering premium picks. However, this class has potential to shine on Day 2 and beyond, with several developmental options available after a 2024 draft that saw a record 137 selections between the last first-round quarterback (Bo Nix) and the next QB taken (Spencer Rattler in the fifth round).
Let’s examine four underrated quarterback prospects worthy of consideration in the 2025 NFL Draft.
Jalen Milroe, Alabama
Height: 6-foot-2
Weight: 217 pounds
Draft Projection: Likely a Day 2 selection, potentially in the second or third round
Strengths
Milroe stands out as one of the most athletic quarterbacks in this draft class, with elite speed (sub-4.5 in the 40-yard dash) and impressive rushing production. Over the past two seasons, he accumulated 1,577 yards and 33 touchdowns on 375 carries, averaging 4.2 yards per carry. His deep ball accuracy leverages his strong arm to stretch defenses vertically, and as a two-time team captain at Alabama, his leadership qualities are well-established.
Weaknesses
Despite his physical tools, Milroe struggles with decision-making and accuracy, particularly in the short-to-medium range. His mechanics need refinement, especially when throwing to his left. He often abandons clean pockets too quickly, relying on athleticism rather than developing proper pocket presence.
2024 Stats
- Completion Rate: 64.2%
- Passing Yards: 2,844
- Touchdowns: 16
- Interceptions: 11
- Rushing Yards: 726
- Rushing Touchdowns: 20
Milroe led Alabama to a 20-6 record over his last two seasons, including an SEC Championship. He requires significant development to become an NFL-caliber passer, making him an ideal candidate to sit and develop while refining his mechanics, footwork, and processing speed. According to FOX Sports NFL Insider Jordan Schultz, Milroe has met with multiple NFL teams and impressed in private workouts. His development path is similar to trends highlighted in our article on NFL Draft player comparisons.
Tyler Shough, Louisville
Height: 6-foot-4
Weight: 224 pounds
Draft Projection: Late rounds, potentially Day 3
Strengths
Shough possesses top-tier arm strength, capable of effortlessly pushing the ball downfield with a crisp throwing motion. As a pure pocket passer, he excels at progressing through reads in a timely manner and uses his eyes effectively to freeze defenders, particularly against zone coverage. His seven-year collegiate career brings valuable maturity and experience to the ACC program.
Weaknesses
Shough’s extensive injury history raises significant durability concerns, including a broken collarbone, shoulder injury, and broken leg. He also lacks mobility, which limits his ability to escape pressure in today’s NFL where quarterbacks often need to extend plays outside the pocket.
2024 Stats
- Completion Rate: 62.7%
- Passing Yards: 3,195
- Touchdowns: 23
- Interceptions: 6
An Honorable Mention All-ACC selection in 2024, Shough’s profile compares to Mason Rudolph – a pocket passer with strong arm talent who could have a lengthy career as a backup, assuming he can stay healthy. Despite his age (turning 26 in September) and injury concerns, Shough has impressed scouts with his skills on tape. The Louisville Cardinals benefited from Shough’s experience during their 2024 campaign, similar to other teams featuring veteran quarterbacks in college football.
Quinn Ewers, Texas
Height: 6-foot-2 ⅛
Weight: 214 pounds
Draft Projection: Middle rounds, potentially Day 2
Strengths
Ewers boasts exceptional arm talent, particularly on deep throws, though his consistency and velocity on longer throws remain concerns. He demonstrates good pocket awareness, often stepping up to avoid pressure while keeping his eyes downfield. Having led Texas to the College Football Playoff in both 2024 and 2025, Ewers is battle-tested, having started against nine top-25 teams in 2024. His journey with the Longhorns in the SEC has been closely watched by scouts.
Weaknesses
Inconsistencies plague Ewers’ game, particularly in footwork, pocket management, and post-snap diagnosis. He sometimes struggles with blitz recognition and handling pressure. His history of shoulder injuries raises durability concerns, and he faces challenges converting drives into touchdowns in the red zone.
Ewers was a five-star recruit and the No. 1 overall prospect in his class, accumulating 9,128 passing yards and 68 touchdowns over his collegiate career. Often compared to Colt McCoy due to his similar size and arm strength, Ewers could have a long career as a solid backup quarterback. His development mirrors that of other elite quarterback prospects discussed in our article on top Day 2 NFL Draft prospects.
Kyle McCord, Syracuse
Height: 6-foot-3
Weight: 218 pounds
Draft Projection: Mid-to-late rounds, potentially Day 3
Strengths
McCord thrives as a rhythm passer in high-tempo, pass-heavy systems. He relies on arc and touch rather than pure velocity, showcasing excellent ball placement, particularly in the short-to-intermediate range. McCord’s advanced pre-snap recognition and quick processing allow him to diagnose coverages effectively and attack favorable matchups. His leadership qualities were evident at both Ohio State and Syracuse, where he led the Orange to a 10-3 record in 2024. His transfer from the Big Ten to the ACC showcased his adaptability to different offensive systems.
Weaknesses
Lacking athleticism and mobility limits McCord when the pocket collapses. While he has good arm talent, it isn’t elite, and he sometimes struggles with deep throws. He tends to linger on his first read, which can hinder his progression through defenses.
McCord set ACC records with 4,779 passing yards and 34 touchdowns in 2024, earning Holiday Bowl MVP honors and leading all Power Four quarterbacks in big-time throws that year. His playing style, emphasizing anticipation and accuracy over elite arm strength, draws comparisons to Brock Purdy. His remarkable season with the Syracuse Orange after transferring from the Buckeyes demonstrates the importance of finding the right system fit, as explored in our article about college football transfer portal quarterbacks.
As teams evaluate these quarterbacks for the 2025 NFL Draft, each prospect offers unique strengths and development opportunities. While they may not generate first-round buzz, their diverse skill sets and potential upside make them intriguing options for teams looking to develop quarterback talent in the middle to late rounds. For more insights on college football prospects transitioning to the NFL, follow our continued coverage at Prospect-Radar.com.
