As we look ahead to the 2025 NFL Draft, one of the most fascinating storylines is the status of Shedeur Sanders and the overall quarterback landscape. The 2025 draft is shaping up to be one of the most exciting in recent memory, especially with the talent on display at the quarterback position. One of the biggest questions currently swirling around the NFL mock draft boards is whether Shedeur Sanders, the standout quarterback from Colorado, is falling down the rankings, and how many quarterbacks will be selected in the first round after Cam Ward, the Washington State signal-caller, potentially joins the class.
Shedeur Sanders’ draft stock has been one of the most closely watched storylines of the 2025 draft cycle. The son of Deion Sanders, the head coach at Colorado, Shedeur has had the spotlight on him from a young age. His rise through the ranks of college football was rapid, and many scouts believed that his combination of poise, arm strength, and football IQ would make him a first-round pick. However, as we get closer to the 2025 draft, some doubts have begun to creep into the discussion, particularly surrounding his ability to handle the pressure of the NFL.
While Sanders put up impressive numbers during his time at Jackson State under Coach Prime and then transferred to Colorado, the jump to the Power 5 conference and the increased competition has led to some inconsistencies in his game. His mobility and playmaking ability were key parts of his early success, but questions about his decision-making, mechanics under pressure, and consistency as a passer have caused his stock to fluctuate.
As NFL teams evaluate quarterbacks for the 2025 draft, there is no doubt that Sanders possesses talent. His ability to make all the throws and his poise in the pocket are attractive qualities for any team looking for a franchise quarterback. However, there are concerns about his ability to elevate his game against top-tier defenses in the Big 12 and how he might handle the pressures of the NFL. Some scouts have noted that while his arm strength is solid, he has a tendency to lock onto receivers too early, which can lead to interceptions or passes getting deflected. Additionally, some teams are questioning his ability to read defenses at an elite level and adjust when things go wrong in the pocket.
Despite the concerns, it’s important to remember that Sanders still has plenty of time to address these issues before the draft. His potential is undeniable, and his leadership and character are qualities that many NFL teams will find appealing. However, if he continues to struggle with consistency or show weaknesses in his decision-making process, he could see his stock dip. It’s possible that Sanders might slip from being a top-five pick to somewhere in the middle of the first round, depending on how the rest of his season unfolds.
While Sanders’ stock is still very much up in the air, the broader quarterback landscape for the 2025 draft is starting to take shape. There are several names to watch closely as we approach the draft, with Cam Ward emerging as one of the more intriguing prospects. Ward, the Washington State quarterback, has been drawing attention for his impressive playmaking ability, arm strength, and athleticism. Many mock drafts have him being selected within the first 10 picks of the 2025 draft, and some even have him as a potential top-five pick. His ability to read defenses, make quick decisions, and execute at a high level has impressed scouts, and his upside is significant.
But what does that mean for the other quarterbacks in this draft class? After Ward, there are several quarterbacks vying for spots in the first round. The most obvious candidate is Sanders, who, as mentioned earlier, still has time to prove that he belongs in the top tier of quarterbacks. Beyond him, there are a few other quarterbacks who have been making noise as potential first-round selections.
One of those quarterbacks is Drake Maye from North Carolina. Maye has been one of the most consistent quarterbacks in college football over the past few years, and his stock has only continued to rise. His ability to read defenses, make quick decisions, and deliver accurate passes under pressure has made him a favorite among scouts. Maye’s size and mobility give him the traits of a prototypical NFL quarterback, and he is expected to be one of the top players off the board in 2025.
Another name to watch is Michael Penix Jr. from Washington. Penix has been one of the most prolific passers in college football, and his ability to push the ball downfield has garnered attention from NFL teams. His strong arm and experience in a pro-style offense could make him an attractive option for teams looking for a quarterback who can contribute right away. Penix’s ability to lead Washington to success in the Pac-12 has added to his draft stock, and he’s expected to be a first-round selection.
Beyond these three quarterbacks, there are several other names in the mix who could rise in the rankings over the course of the next year. One name that has been gaining traction is Bo Nix from Oregon. Nix has had a rollercoaster career, but his strong senior season could push him into first-round consideration. His ability to make plays with his legs and his impressive development as a passer make him an intriguing prospect. Nix has the tools to be a successful NFL quarterback, but his consistency will be the key to whether or not he can secure a spot in the first round.
As we consider how many quarterbacks will be selected after Cam Ward in Round 1, it’s clear that the 2025 NFL Draft will be quarterback-heavy. There could easily be four or five quarterbacks drafted in the first round, with Ward likely leading the charge. The number of quarterbacks selected will largely depend on how the rest of the draft cycle unfolds, including how well the top quarterbacks perform in the pre-draft process, such as the NFL Combine, interviews, and pro days. If any of the quarterbacks continue to improve their stock, it’s possible we could see even more quarterbacks selected in Round 1 than initially expected.
However, there are some teams that might opt for other positions in the first round, especially if they have a franchise quarterback already in place. The rise of elite defensive talent in this class, such as edge rushers, linebackers, and secondary players, could lead to teams prioritizing those positions over quarterback. That being said, it’s hard to ignore the importance of a top quarterback prospect, and it’s clear that many teams are willing to invest in a quarterback of the future if they feel they have the right one available.
Looking ahead, it’s clear that the 2025 NFL Draft will be full of excitement, especially when it comes to the quarterback position. Shedeur Sanders’ draft stock is currently in a bit of flux, but his potential is undeniable. Whether he falls or continues to rise in the rankings depends on how he performs in the upcoming months. As for the rest of the quarterbacks, Cam Ward seems to be at the top of the list, but there are several other strong candidates who could make a push for first-round selection.
This year’s quarterback class is one of the most intriguing in recent memory, and it will be fascinating to see how the rankings shake out as we approach the 2025 NFL Draft.