By Dorrington Myers
The chase for the Heisman Trophy has kicked into full gear, and with non-conference matchups marking the early season, we’re starting to separate the pretenders from the contenders. This is where young talent either rises to the challenge or crumbles under pressure. I’ve watched quarterbacks command their teams with poise and precision, and I’ve seen others redefine greatness right before my eyes. This list, drawn from my years of expertise evaluating QBs, is more than just a ranking, it’s a call to see who truly deserves to be in the Heisman spotlight.
Quarterbacks are screened off more than just stats, the throws and reads behind the stats are just as important. My opinions come from extensive film study and specific breakdowns, ensuring that each player gets an accurate evaluation that paint a clear picture of what each player is good and bad at. There are no cut cards, as the QB position is one of the most difficult to play.
1. Jalen Milroe, Alabama
Jalen Milroe is a QB many have doubted and written off, but to those critics, I say keep doubting, because he’s been successful. Milroe is thriving in the Kalen Deboer offense, impacting the game as a dual-threat. He dedicated the offseason to sharpening his skills as a passer, and through the first three weeks, I’m already seeing noticeable improvements.
Milroe is battle-tested, and there’s no question in my mind that he’ll do whatever it takes to lead his team to a National Championship. For those who still say he should switch positions, let me set the record straight: Milroe is a quarterback, through and through. He’s blessed with the ability to run like a back, but his mind and skills are those of a QB. In fact, he’s my Heisman front-runner, not just because of his athleticism but because his impact is undeniable. If he were to miss any time, this offense simply wouldn’t be the same.
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2. Dillon Gabriel, Oregon
Dillon Gabriel doesn’t get nearly enough credit for the work he puts in. Some critics point to his height, but when you watch him play, it’s clear he’s a dynamic impact player. When the offense is clicking and the team is winning, height becomes irrelevant—what matters is performance, and Gabriel delivers. Through the first three games, he’s thrown for 914 yards and six touchdowns while completing a ridiculous 84% of his passes.
And it’s not just a fluke. Over the past few seasons, he’s consistently surpassed 3,000 passing yards and thrown for 25 or more touchdowns. His impact isn’t just through the air; he’s a dual-threat quarterback with the ability to change games on the ground as well. Coming into this season as a Heisman front-runner, Gabriel remains a serious contender, and I wouldn’t count him out just yet.
3. Cameron Ward, Miami
Cameron Ward is as electric as they come at quarterback today. There’s no question about his ability, being one of three quarterbacks with over 300 yards and three or more touchdowns in each game, but the one lingering doubt is whether the level of competition could hinder his Heisman chances.
With the Hurricanes facing only one ranked opponent this season in a weaker ACC, Ward’s spotlight may not shine as bright as it should. But if Miami makes a playoff run, that could be the defining moment that cements Ward as a legitimate Heisman candidate. For now, I’ve got him at number three, and it’s primarily because of this schedule factor.
4. Jaxson Dart, Ole Miss
As explosive as Jaxson Dart is, the true test lies ahead—facing conference opponents. There’s no denying his talent; he’s really good. But can he dominate when it matters most? Dart has the arm to make every throw in the playbook and the athleticism to be a serious threat on the ground. I can see him climbing the rankings soon because his potential is undeniable. In my book, he’s a top-three talent, without question. Right now, it’s a toss-up between him and Cameron Ward for that third and fourth spot, as they’re both game-changers, but Ward gets the edge for now.
5. Nico Iamaleava, Tennessee
The Heisman dark horse has officially entered the conversation! In my eyes, Nico Iamaleava cracks the lineup because he’s one of the most explosive talents in college football—and he’s just getting started. His combination of raw athleticism and high football IQ makes him a dangerous weapon on the field, and his ceiling is through the roof. By the time the season wraps up, I fully expect Iamaleava to have earned a spot as a Heisman finalist. Tennessee has an explosive offense with him as the point man.
Honorable Mention: Quinn Ewers
I originally had Ewers in my top five, but with the uncertainty surrounding his injury and how much time he could miss, I decided to take him off my ranking. This list will continue to be re-evaluated as the season moves on, so he could easily get back into the top five.
