The Race for QB3 in the 2025 NFL Draft
The 2025 NFL Draft is shaping up to be an intriguing one, especially for quarterback prospects. While Miami’s Cam Ward and Colorado’s Shedeur Sanders are widely regarded as the top two picks, the question on everyone’s mind is who will claim the coveted QB3 spot. This year, the quarterback class is considered weaker than previous years, making the competition for the third position even more heated and unpredictable. As teams assess the talents, Jaxson Dart, Jalen Milroe, Will Howard, Tyler Shough, and Quinn Ewers emerge as the key contenders. Each brings unique strengths and challenges to the table, making this race one to watch.
Jaxson Dart: A Consistent Performer with a Strong Arm
Jaxson Dart, the Ole Miss quarterback, is often highlighted as a top candidate for the QB3 position. Standing at 6-foot-2 and weighing 223 pounds, Dart is known for his consistency and impressive deep ball accuracy. In the 2024 season, heled the FBS in yards per attempt with an impressive 10.8 average, showcasing his ability to make big plays down the field. His stats for the season include a 69.3% completion rate, 4,279 yards, 29 touchdowns, and only 6 interceptions. Dart’s dual-threat capabilities are evident with 495 rushing yards and 3 touchdowns. Draft evaluators praise his football IQ and poise, with some projections placing him as high as the late first round. His performance at the NFL Combine further solidified his reputation, demonstrating his ability to connect on deep passes. While he may not be the most elite athlete, Dart’s well-rounded skills and production in the SEC make him a formidable candidate for QB3.
Jalen Milroe: A Dynamic Athlete with Untapped Potential
Jalen Milroe, the explosive quarterback from Alabama, is another strong contender for the QB3 spot. Milroe’s athleticism is rare, making him a nightmare for defenders in the open field. His 2024 season statistics include a 64.3% completion rate, 2,844 yards, 16 touchdowns, and 11 interceptions. On the ground, he amassed 726 yards and 20 touchdowns, showcasing his dynamic rushing ability. Despite his physical gifts, Milroe’s tape is marred by inconsistencies, particularly in accuracy and decision-making. His underwhelming performance at the Combine, where he underthrew deep balls, raised concerns about his readiness for the NFL level. Once considered a first-round lock, Milroe now faces questions about his polish and reliability. However, his raw athleticism and potential for growth could entice a team to invest a high pick with the belief that he can develop into a franchise quarterback.
Will Howard: A National Champion with Size and Mobility
Will Howard, the towering 6-foot-4, 236-pound quarterback from Ohio State, brings a unique blend of size, arm talent, and mobility to the table. A key figure in the Buckeyes’ national championship run, Howard delivered a standout 2024 season with a 73.0% completion rate, 4,010 yards, 35 touchdowns, and just 10 interceptions. His rushing statistics are modest – 226 yards and 7 touchdowns – but he showed flashes of mobility, particularly in read-option situations. Despite his impressive stats, Howard’s reliance on Ohio State’s talent-rich system and questions about his ability to transcend scheme limitations have dampened his stock. While he may not project as a true playmaker outside of a structured system, his size and intangibles could make him an attractive pick for teams seeking a developmental quarterback with a high ceiling.
Tyler Shough: Experience and Size, But Health Concerns Linger
Tyler Shough, the 6-foot-5, 219-pound quarterback from Louisville, represents a fascinating case for scouts. Now 25 years old, Shough brings a wealth of experience and maturity to the table. His 2024 season was solid, with a 62.7% completion rate, 3,195 yards, 23 touchdowns, and 6 interceptions. Shough’s tape reveals a quarterback who excels when protected and has the arm strength to make all the throws. However, concerns about his health persist after injury-plagued stints at Texas Tech and Oregon. Shough’s limited mobility is another drawback, though his 4.63-second 40-yard dash at the Combine suggests he has enough athleticism to navigate the pocket. For teams willing to gamble on his durability, Shough could offer immediate value as a backup with starting potential. But his advanced age and injury history may limit his appeal compared to younger, higher-ceiling prospects.
Quinn Ewers: A Mixed Bag of Talent and Limitations
Quinn Ewers, the 6-foot-2, 214-pound quarterback from Texas, is widely regarded as one of the most divisive prospects in the class. Ewers’ ability to make throws look effortless and his decent pocket mobility are positives, but his struggles under pressure and lack of escapability raise red flags. His 2024 stats of 65.8% completion rate, 3,472 yards, 31 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions paint a picture of productivity, but the tape reveals inconsistencies in accuracy and decision-making. While Ewers won plenty of games for the Longhorns, questions about his ceiling and limitations in critical moments may push him down draft boards. Still, his throwing ability and experience in a high-profile program like Texas could make him a mid-round target for teams seeking a developmental quarterback with upside.
Conclusion: Jaxson Dart Leads the Charge for QB3
As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, the race for the third quarterback off the board remains wide open. While Jaxson Dart, Jalen Milroe, Will Howard, Tyler Shough, and Quinn Ewers each bring unique strengths and weaknesses to the table, Dart’s consistency, production, and well-rounded skill set make him the most likely candidate to be QB3. His experience in the SEC, ability to make plays both with his arm and legs, and strong Combine performance position him as the safest bet among the group. That said, Milroe’s athleticism and upside could lead a team to gamble on him as a high-ceiling developmental quarterback. Ultimately, the quarterback class may lack elite talent beyond the top two, but there’s still value to be found for teams willing to invest in growth and potential.
