By Lane Cabalerro
The quarterback position typically defines the quality of the NFL Draft class. The situation remains unchanged in 2025; however, there is no clear favorite for the top position as of now. Which quarterbacks should be on the radar of the teams at the top of the order? Carson Beck, Shedeur Sanders, Quinn Ewers, and Jalen Milroe are the favorites to be under consideration for the top picks. In today’s analysis, I will identify the under-the-radar quarterbacks who can impress and secure top spots on draft boards in 2025.
Kyron Drones – Virginia Tech
The Hokies quarterback is in a lab for modern-day quarterback play in the NFL. With a stature of 6’2″ and weighing 234 pounds, Drones is a true dual-threat quarterback. 2023 was his first year as a full-time starter, as Drones spent his previous years at Baylor only playing spot minutes.
The junior quarterback displayed a live arm with a knack for pushing the ball downfield. Drones passed for 2,084 yards, 17 touchdowns, on only 3 interceptions. On the ground, the Virginia Tech quarterback added 818 yards and 5 touchdowns, showcasing he’s a legit rushing threat to opposing defenses.
I want to see Drones improve his efficiency through the air in 2024, as his completion percentage was only at 58.25% in 2023. The Hokies quarterback has a tendency to opt for longer passes instead of taking the underneath options. I believe this is because of his inexperience, as 2023 was his first season as a full-time starter. Improved efficiency on a down-to-down basis will show the maturity that NFL teams seek in their franchise quarterback. Keep an eye out for Drones and the Hokies in 2024.
Riley Leonard – Notre Dame
The former Duke Blue Devil made the move to South Bend this offseason, where an improved surrounding cast could help him raise his draft stock. Leonard is a gamer and will put his body on the line to win the game. The new member of the Fighting Irish showcases a powerful arm and dual-threat capabilities. The Duke supporting cast did Leonard no favors, leading to many broken plays. Leonard ended the 2023 season injured but hopes to bounce-back in 2024.
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Riley Leonard possesses an NFL frame at 6’4”, 216 pounds. With an improved offensive line and receiving options, I hope to see Leonard be more aggressive attacking down the field. The Duke offense put emphasis on getting the ball out fast, which Leonard did a good job executing. However, if Leonard shows he can attack all areas of the field with his arm, he will play his way into first-round consideration.
Kaidon Salter – Liberty
Kaidon Salter wins the award for the most fun game-tape in this class. The Liberty quarterback does stuff that is not normal on the football field. Salter can throw over the top of your defensive backs or run right past them. The Cedar Hill, Texas product is a bit on the smaller side, standing at 6’1”, 200 pounds. Despite his frame, Salter is walking production, as he tossed 32 touchdowns on 2,876 yards.
The Liberty quarterback is just as lethal on the ground, rushing for 1,089 yards and 12 touchdowns in 2023. Playing at a Group of Five school, the quality of opponents will be a cause for concern, but his tape shows Salter is a special player. If he can improve upon his 2023 campaign, he will play himself into first-round talks.
The Liberty quarterback is another big-play hunter, so he will need to showcase that he can get to second and third reads for an NFL team to consider him early in drafts. Salter’s arm is of NFL caliber, allowing him to execute any throw on the field. Salter will gain attention from teams in need of a quarterback if he demonstrates a willingness to take check-downs.
Drew Allar – Penn State
The former five-star prospect has been a bit underwhelming during his time in Happy Valley. Allar is only 20 years old and has much potential for growth as 2023 was his first season as a full-time starter. The young quarterback was solid last year but is nowhere near his ceiling.
Allar is 6’5”, 238 pounds, and possesses good movement skills for his size. His legs won’t win you a game alone, but he is mobile enough to extend plays and take advantage of vacated space. The Penn State offense was conservative, leading to Allar opting for checkdowns frequently.
The Nittany Lions hired Andy Kotelnicki from Kansas as their offensive coordinator for 2024, which should lead to more creativity in the offense. Allar expanding his Rolodex of throws will show NFL teams he can consistently win from the pocket. The Penn State quarterback must be more comfortable in the pocket and avoid getting stuck when under pressure. As he gets more experience, Allar will continue to improve. The question is, will he improve enough to earn first-round consideration in the 2025 draft?
