It’s time to look at the Quarterbacks of 2025 as Bill Zimmerman gives us his definitive QB rankings! Check out where he has everyone ranked (from 1 to 50!) heading into this season. And no, Tyson Bagent didn’t make the list, but Caleb Williams did.

As the 2025 NFL season approaches, quarterback discussions dominate fan debates, coaching meetings, and media coverage. With so much talent spread across the league—and several promising young signal-callers ready to take the next step—quarterback rankings have become a popular way to gauge the competitive landscape before the first snap.

Among the many analysts weighing in, Bill Zimmerman stands out. Known for his comprehensive film study and data-driven insights, Zimmerman has released his definitive quarterback rankings heading into 2025, ranking the top 50 QBs across the NFL and emerging stars from college. His list has sparked conversation, not only for who made the cut but also for some notable omissions.

This season’s rankings provide a snapshot of the quarterback hierarchy entering a pivotal year for veterans, rising stars, and rookies alike. Here’s an in-depth look at Zimmerman’s list, what it reveals about the QB position today, and where some of the most talked-about players fall—including Caleb Williams’ impressive placement and Tyson Bagent’s surprising exclusion.

The Top of the Class: Elite Passers Holding Their Ground

Zimmerman’s top five quarterbacks for 2025 reads like a Who’s Who of the NFL’s elite. These players have proven their value through consistent production, leadership, and the ability to elevate their teams in critical moments.

1. Patrick Mahomes (Kansas City Chiefs)
   Zimmerman ranks Mahomes at No. 1, citing his combination of arm talent, mobility, and playmaking creativity. Mahomes remains the gold standard, continuing to dominate defenses with his improvisational skills and deep-ball accuracy.
2. Josh Allen (Buffalo Bills)
   Allen’s rare blend of size, athleticism, and arm strength places him near the top. Zimmerman notes Allen’s growth in decision-making and his capacity to extend plays under pressure.
3. Joe Burrow (Cincinnati Bengals)
   Burrow’s poise and precision under center earn him a top-three spot. His ability to read defenses and consistently deliver on timing routes keeps the Bengals’ offense clicking.
4. Jalen Hurts (Philadelphia Eagles)
   Hurts ranks high for his dual-threat ability and leadership. Zimmerman highlights Hurts’ rapid improvement in pocket passing and his fearless approach in high-pressure situations.
5. Justin Herbert (Los Angeles Chargers)
   Herbert’s prototypical NFL QB traits—strong arm, good footwork, and calm demeanor—secure his place in the top five, despite some injury setbacks.

These quarterbacks are expected to continue defining the quarterback position in 2025 and beyond. They combine physical gifts with intangible leadership qualities, setting the benchmark for the rest of the league.

Rising Stars and Breakout Candidates

Following the established elite, Zimmerman’s list features a group of talented quarterbacks on the rise—players who have demonstrated flashes of greatness and now have the potential to make a leap this season.

• Caleb Williams (Chicago Bears)
  One of the most talked-about young QBs entering 2025, Williams earns a solid ranking in the top 15, reflecting his impressive rookie season and high ceiling. Zimmerman praises Williams’ natural playmaking ability, quick release, and mobility. The slight mechanical adjustments Williams made during the offseason, particularly to his snap setup and footwork, have helped his transition to the NFL speed, signaling that the Bears’ franchise QB is rapidly developing.
• Tua Tagovailoa (Miami Dolphins)
  Tagovailoa, despite previous injury concerns, ranks in the top 20 due to his accuracy and quick decision-making. Zimmerman believes if Tua stays healthy, he can be among the league’s most efficient passers.
• Trevor Lawrence (Jacksonville Jaguars)
  Lawrence’s steady improvement and leadership under new coaching staff earn him a spot in the top 20. His improved pocket presence and accuracy are key reasons for his upward trajectory.
• Kenny Pickett (Pittsburgh Steelers)
  Showing flashes of his collegiate brilliance, Pickett makes the top 30. Zimmerman notes his ability to extend plays and develop chemistry with his receivers.
• Desmond Ridder (Atlanta Falcons)
  Ridder’s mobility and competitive nature earn him a ranking in the mid-30s. The Falcons’ revamped offense is expected to help Ridder unlock more of his potential.

These rising stars represent the future of the position, blending athleticism with increasing command of pro-style offenses.

Veterans Holding Down Starting Roles

Beyond the top tier and rising stars, Zimmerman’s rankings also include veteran quarterbacks who may not be headline-makers but remain valuable starters or dependable backups.

• Derek Carr (New Orleans Saints), Jimmy Garoppolo (Las Vegas Raiders), and Russell Wilson (Denver Broncos) fall into this category, ranked between 25 and 40. Zimmerman acknowledges their experience and ability to manage games effectively, even if they no longer possess elite physical traits.
• Other veterans like Kirk Cousins (Minnesota Vikings) and Matt Ryan (Indianapolis Colts) are placed in the 30s range, reflecting solid if unspectacular careers with moments of brilliance.

These quarterbacks bring stability and mentorship while occasionally surprising with big performances.

Notable Omissions and Surprises

One of the most surprising aspects of Zimmerman’s list is the exclusion of Tyson Bagent. Despite being a promising young quarterback with strong college credentials and buzz among fans, Bagent didn’t crack the top 50. Zimmerman’s rationale centers around Bagent’s limited NFL experience and questions about his arm strength and ability to read NFL defenses at the pro level.

While Bagent remains a player to watch, Zimmerman’s rankings emphasize proven production and current NFL readiness, underscoring the steep learning curve for young QBs transitioning to the league.

Other omissions include some backup quarterbacks and unproven rookies yet to show consistent playmaking ability in game situations.

What These Rankings Tell Us About the State of the QB Position

Zimmerman’s list highlights several key trends shaping the quarterback landscape in 2025:

• The Continued Rise of Dual-Threat QBs: Players like Jalen Hurts and Caleb Williams represent a new generation of quarterbacks who combine passing skill with elite athleticism. Their ability to extend plays with their legs forces defenses to defend the entire field, making them invaluable assets.
• Veteran Presence Still Matters: Experienced quarterbacks continue to play significant roles, either as starters or mentors. While the league increasingly values youth and mobility, seasoned QBs provide steadiness and often serve as bridges during rebuilding phases.
• The Importance of Mechanics and Fundamentals: The emphasis on Caleb Williams’ offseason adjustments reflects a broader league-wide focus on refining mechanics and footwork. Small technical improvements can lead to big leaps in performance and durability.
• The Steep Transition from College to NFL: Tyson Bagent’s absence underscores how difficult the jump is, even for decorated college players. NFL quarterbacks must rapidly process complex defenses, make quick decisions, and operate within sophisticated offensive schemes.

The Impact on the Chicago Bears and Caleb Williams

For the Bears and Caleb Williams, appearing in Zimmerman’s top 15 rankings is a strong vote of confidence. It confirms that Williams is viewed as a legitimate franchise quarterback with the tools and work ethic to succeed at the highest level.

The Bears’ coaching staff, led by Ben Johnson, will be eager to build on this momentum, using the offseason’s technical refinements to help Williams become more consistent and efficient.

Williams’ standing in these rankings should also boost the morale of Bears fans, who have eagerly awaited a quarterback capable of leading the team back to playoff contention.

Looking Ahead: The QB Battles and Storylines of 2025

As the season unfolds, several storylines involving quarterbacks will capture attention:

• Can Caleb Williams solidify his place among the NFL’s elite and justify his high ranking?
• Will veterans maintain their roles or give way to rising talents?
• Which unranked or lower-ranked QBs will surprise and break into the upper tiers?

Zimmerman’s rankings serve as a baseline, but football is always unpredictable. Performance on the field, injuries, coaching changes, and scheme fit will ultimately determine who ascends or falls in the pecking order.

Bill Zimmerman’s 2025 quarterback rankings offer a comprehensive look at the evolving landscape of the NFL’s most important position. From the established superstars like Patrick Mahomes and Josh Allen, through the promising young talent of Caleb Williams, to the experienced veterans holding their ground, Zimmerman’s list reflects both the excitement and challenges of quarterback play heading into this new season.

The exclusion of players like Tyson Bagent reminds us of the difficulty of breaking into the NFL elite, while Williams’ inclusion reinforces the Bears’ hope that they’ve found their long-term signal-caller.

As fans prepare for kickoff, these rankings set the stage for spirited debate and provide a lens through which to watch the unfolding drama of the 2025 NFL season.

If you want, I can help create player profiles for some of the ranked quarterbacks, or provide deeper analysis on rookie quarterbacks not yet in the top 50 but poised to make waves!