SI

● By Gilbert Manzano
At the 2024 NFL draft, many experts were already saying that the ’25 quarterback class was looking thin, which helps explain why teams grabbed a record six signal-callers in the top 12 picks. But the truth is that QB-needy teams are rarely patient in addressing the most important position on the roster. So even if scouts aren’t high on the upcoming quarterback crop right now, it’s entirely possible there will be another run, especially if one or two have breakout years—after all, no one projected Joe Burrow would be a No. 1 pick before his 2019 Heisman season. Of course, the number of QBs drafted will also be influenced by need. If the Raiders’ Aidan O’Connell doesn’t make a leap in his second season, or if Geno Smith doesn’t bounce back in Seattle, the demand will increase and push up the stock of anyone who looks like they might be capable of leading an offense.

Top Players Not Included

These players appear in the top 10 of our

Consensus Big Board

, but do not show up in this mock.