Seattle, Washington — As the NFL gears up for the 2025 season, a deep dive into the league’s quarterback situations reveals a mix of talent, uncertainty, and challenges. While electrifying figures like Patrick Mahomes and Jalen Hurts dominate the headlines, not every team boasts a quarterback situation that inspires confidence. This year’s analysis focuses on some of the league’s less promising quarterback rooms, identifying the potential Week 1 starters for each and exploring the implications for their teams.
At the forefront is the Seattle Seahawks, where Sam Darnold, the recent acquisition from the Minnesota Vikings, takes the helm. Despite a standout 2024 season that garnered him a Pro Bowl nod, questions linger regarding Darnold’s performance with a new team, particularly after a disappointing postseason exit. Backing him up are Drew Lock, a journeyman who has seen his share of struggles, and rookie Jalen Milroe, whose college career was marked by inconsistency. The signs point to Darnold starting in Week 1, but the Seahawks’ faith in him will be tested early.
Transitioning to the New York Giants, Russell Wilson stands out as the team’s most accomplished quarterback. However, his once-predictable prowess has dwindled, marked by a concerning finish to the 2024 season. Meanwhile, Jameis Winston continues to embody uncertainty, oscillating between impressive performances and dismal outings. Rookie Jaxson Dart, a promising quarterback from the SEC, also enters the mix, although he will require significant development as he adapts to the NFL. Currently, Wilson is the favorite to start.
In Denver, rookie Bo Nix assumes the lead role following a solid debut season. Nix’s impressive touchdown tally could be overshadowed by concerns over his performance during critical moments, particularly evident in last year’s playoffs. Notable for his conservative style, Nix will need to elevate his game as defenses tighten in 2025. Jarrett Stidham and Sam Ehlinger round out the position, with Nix looking to build upon his initial success as he leads his team into the upcoming season.
Further south in New Orleans, Derek Carr remains the centerpiece of the Saints’ offense. Injuries hindered his 2024 performance, but he remains a proven commodity when healthy. His backup rookies, Tyler Shough and Spencer Rattler, bring potential but lack the needed experience to lead if Carr falters. The expectation is that Carr will start, contingent on his recovery from a shoulder injury that has drawn some scrutiny.
In New York, with the Jets, former first-round pick Justin Fields enters the season as the likely starter after a stint with the Pittsburgh Steelers. His performance statistics suggest potential for improvement, particularly with a more supportive offensive structure. Tyrod Taylor provides veteran experience, while undrafted prospects Adrian Martinez and Brady Cook round out the roster.
The Tennessee Titans find themselves with the first overall pick in 2025, selecting Cam Ward to lead the franchise into a new era. Ward’s collegiate accolades are significant, but he faces the daunting task of transitioning to the NFL. Will Levis, also in the mix, struggled during his previous season and may serve as a backup. The presence of experienced players like Brandon Allen offers depth, but Ward’s performance will be decisive in shaping the Titans’ future.
Minnesota’s situation centers around J.J. McCarthy, a rookie with significant potential but recovery needs after a preseason injury. With Sam Howell and Brett Rypien providing depth, the Vikings will watch closely to see if McCarthy can secure the starting role as the season opener approaches.
In Cleveland, the quarterback landscape is chaotic. While Deshaun Watson’s return from injury complicates matters, veteran Joe Flacco offers stability amidst turmoil. The addition of Kenny Pickett and rookies Dillon Gabriel and Shedeur Sanders keeps competition high, but Flacco is poised to start, especially given Watson’s uncertain status.
Finally, the Indianapolis Colts’ roster features Anthony Richardson as the most talented player among a group including Daniel Jones, who struggles to maintain consistency, and two lesser-known prospects. Richardson’s dual-threat capabilities and potential for growth may prove vital as the Colts aim to find their footing in the competitive AFC South.
As training camps commence and rosters finalize, these quarterback rooms will be scrutinized closely, with teams hoping to find solutions to their uncertainties before the new season kicks off. While some franchises are well-equipped to contend, others will be navigating the challenging waters of quarterback development and performance.