College football’s top 50 quarterbacks for 2025 feature SEC and Big Ten stars leading an elite group full of future NFL talent.

The quarterback position remains the single most important in college football. It’s the engine that powers championship runs, dictates offensive identities, and often decides whether a team becomes a playoff contender or falls short of expectations. As we look ahead to the 2025 season, the landscape at quarterback is a fascinating blend of returning veterans, high-upside prospects, breakout stars, and true freshmen hoping to fast-track their rise to stardom.

While the SEC and Big Ten once again dominate the top tier in terms of depth and talent, elite quarterbacks can now be found across all Power Five conferences—and even a few Group of Five programs. Here, we take a deep dive into college football’s top 50 quarterbacks for 2025, evaluating their strengths, trajectories, and potential impact on the upcoming season.

Tier 1: The Heisman Contenders (Top 5)

1. Nico Iamaleava – Tennessee (SEC)

Iamaleava is the centerpiece of Josh Heupel’s high-octane offense and steps into 2025 with sky-high expectations. After flashes of brilliance late in 2024, he now looks poised to lead one of the most explosive offenses in the country. With his elite arm strength, mobility, and improved command of the system, Iamaleava enters the season as a serious Heisman candidate.

2. Dante Moore – Michigan (Big Ten)

Now in full control of Michigan’s offense, Moore brings poise, accuracy, and exceptional decision-making. His 2024 campaign was a model of efficiency, and with another year in Sherrone Moore’s system, he could elevate the Wolverines back into national championship contention.

3. Jalen Milroe – Alabama (SEC)

A dynamic dual-threat with unmatched explosiveness, Milroe took massive strides in 2024. His improved passing mechanics and better pocket presence have made him a nightmare for defenses. If Alabama returns to the playoff, Milroe will be the driving force.

4. Malachi Nelson – USC (Big Ten)

With Lincoln Riley now guiding USC into the Big Ten, Malachi Nelson is the prototypical fit for Riley’s offense. With elite touch and anticipation, Nelson could be college football’s top pure passer in 2025.

5. Quinn Ewers – Texas (SEC)

Ewers returns for his final season with unfinished business. His deep-ball accuracy and composure under pressure make him a top NFL prospect, and Texas has the supporting cast to help him dominate in their SEC debut.

Tier 2: Proven Stars and High-End NFL Prospects (6–15)

6. Carson Beck – Georgia (SEC)

Beck’s command of Georgia’s offense is surgical. He’s not flashy, but he rarely makes mistakes. If Georgia’s skill talent develops, Beck could post career-best numbers in 2025.

7. Drew Allar – Penn State (Big Ten)

With one of the strongest arms in the country, Allar enters the season needing to prove he can win big games. If he improves under pressure, he has first-round tools written all over him.

8. Shedeur Sanders – Colorado (Big 12)

The spotlight never leaves Sanders, and he thrives in it. He’s one of the most accurate quarterbacks in the country when given time—and if Colorado’s offensive line improves, Sanders will return to national relevance.

9. Cade Klubnik – Clemson (ACC)

Klubnik had an up-and-down 2024 but showed promise with his mobility and leadership. Clemson’s offense is retooling, but Klubnik’s experience gives them a high floor in the ACC.

10. Jaxson Dart – Ole Miss (SEC)

Dart led one of the nation’s top offenses last year. With a full command of Lane Kiffin’s playbook, he’s among the most dangerous dual-threats in the nation.

11. Kyle McCord – Nebraska (Big Ten)

The Ohio State transfer found his groove in Lincoln. With a retooled offensive line and emerging receivers, McCord is quietly building a powerful résumé.

12. Conner Weigman – Texas A&M (SEC)

When healthy, Weigman looks like a first-round NFL pick. A clean season in 2025 could make him one of the most talked-about QBs in the country.

13. Katin Houser – Michigan State (Big Ten)

Houser has grown into a confident pocket passer with underrated mobility. Michigan State’s fortunes rest heavily on his shoulders.

14. Garrett Nussmeier – LSU (SEC)

Stepping into the starting role after waiting behind Jayden Daniels, Nussmeier has the tools to light up the scoreboard in Baton Rouge.

15. Ty Thompson – Oregon State (Pac-12)

One of the most efficient QBs in the country last season, Thompson is back to lead a tough Oregon State squad looking to punch above its weight again.

Tier 3: Breakout Candidates (16–30)

16. Jackson Arnold – Oklahoma (SEC)

Elite arm talent and a quick release make Arnold a breakout threat. He’ll need to cut down on turnovers, but the talent is real.

17. Braylon James – Notre Dame (Independent)

A true dual-threat with a cannon arm, James could quickly become the centerpiece of Notre Dame’s offense.

18. DJ Uiagalelei – Florida State (ACC)

The former Clemson and Oregon State QB seems to have found his groove in Tallahassee. Big year ahead if he maintains consistency.

19. MJ Morris – NC State (ACC)

Morris’ athleticism and leadership are drawing raves. If he stays healthy, he could be a top-10 QB by year’s end.

20. Sam Horn – Missouri (SEC)

A big-armed gunslinger with high upside, Horn just needs consistency. Missouri believes he’s their long-term answer under center.

21. Tate Rodemaker – Florida (SEC)

Solid mechanics and smart decision-making define Rodemaker’s game. With better weapons, he could surprise many in the SEC.

22. Jalon Daniels – Kansas (Big 12)

One of the most fun players to watch, Daniels can take over games with his arm and legs. Health is the key.

23. Owen McCown – UTSA (AAC)

A Group of Five gem. McCown’s anticipation and accuracy make him a must-watch, especially in late-season games.

24. Brady Cook – Missouri (SEC)

Smart, steady, and dependable. Cook won’t wow with flash, but he wins games.

25. Chandler Morris – TCU (Big 12)

When healthy, Morris has shown elite traits. TCU’s offense will give him chances to shine.

Tier 4: Rising Stars and High-Impact Freshmen (31–50)

26. Julian Sayin – Ohio State (Big Ten)

Five-star freshman Sayin might not start immediately, but he’s the future—and the hype is very real.

27. Arch Manning – Texas (SEC)

Still developing, Manning may be QB2 behind Ewers, but he’s one injury away from the spotlight.

28. Malachi Singleton – Arkansas (SEC)

Athletic and competitive, Singleton could win the starting job and surprise defenses with his physical style.

29. Jackson Smolik – Iowa (Big Ten)

Strong spring reports have Iowa fans cautiously optimistic. Smolik’s command of the offense is growing quickly.

30. Aidan Chiles – Oregon (Big Ten)

Backs up Nelson but may see meaningful snaps. Chiles’ ceiling is enormous.

31–50 (Rapid Highlights):

• 31. Hank Brown – Liberty – G5 breakout alert.
• 32. Kai Kaneshiro – Hawaii – Strong arm, great feel.
• 33. Ty Simpson – Alabama – Experienced backup, still talented.
• 34. Emory Williams – Miami – Clean footwork, accurate passer.
• 35. Myles Burkett – Wisconsin – Smart, consistent decision-maker.
• 36. Peter Delaportas – Boston College – Physically ready for breakout.
• 37. Brett Gabbert – Miami (OH) – Veteran with poise.
• 38. Dylan Raiola – Nebraska – Freshman phenom, but will he start?
• 39. Cole LaCrue – Colorado State – Tough, gritty leader.
• 40. Ben Finley – California – Dependable veteran.
• 41. Jack Tuttle – Indiana – Longtime backup, finally starting.
• 42. Deacon Hill – Iowa – Strong arm, inconsistent.
• 43. Sam Huard – Utah State – Former blue-chip still has upside.
• 44. Hunter Herring – Louisiana – One of Sun Belt’s best.
• 45. MJ Devine – Kansas State – True freshman to watch.
• 46. Seth Henigan – Memphis – Stat machine.
• 47. Hank Bachmeier – Louisiana Tech – Veteran leader.
• 48. Cameron Rising – Utah – Returning from injury.
• 49. Austin Novosad – Baylor – Still raw, but gifted.
• 50. Eli Holstein – LSU – Waiting in the wings.

Final Thoughts

As the 2025 season nears, this group of 50 quarterbacks offers a snapshot of the game’s present and future. From seasoned veterans to wide-eyed freshmen,

each brings a unique skill set to their program’s hopes and dreams. And while preseason rankings are bound to shift as the season unfolds, one thing is certain: college football’s QB class is as deep and diverse as ever.

Whether you’re watching for NFL prospects, thrilling dual-threats, or underdog stories, this quarterback group promises must-see action from Week 1 through the postseason.