The NFL is buzzing with the electric talent of its quarterbacks, showcasing a mix of established stars and promising newcomers. In the AFC, you’ve got Patrick Mahomes and Lamar Jackson keeping fans on the edge of their seats, while Joe Burrow and Josh Allen are looking to lead their teams deep into the playoffs. Then over in the NFC, Super Bowl MVP Jalen Hurts is turning heads alongside other strong contenders like Jared Goff and Dak Prescott. Even the latest rookie class made a splash, with Jayden Daniels winning the 2024 NFL Offensive Player of the Year, propelling the Washington Commanders to an impressive finish in the NFC.
But let’s shift gears and focus on the other side of the spectrum—those struggling quarterback rooms that are ripe for evaluation. Here’s a dive into the NFL’s ten least promising quarterback situations heading into 2025, along with predictions for the Week 1 starters for each team. Grab your favorite beverage as we take a closer look at what might be brewing in the league’s most challenging dynamics.
10. Seattle Seahawks
Quarterbacks: Sam Darnold, Drew Lock, Jalen Milroe
Newly signed Sam Darnold marked his Pro Bowl season last year with 35 touchdown passes playing for the Minnesota Vikings. Yet, the Vikings’ decision to let him walk raises eyebrows, especially after he stumbled in crucial playoff moments. His tenure in Seattle will be fascinating—he now faces the challenge of stepping outside Minnesota’s high-powered offensive ecosystem, which included Pro Bowl talents like Aaron Jones and Justin Jefferson. The backup, Drew Lock, has been on a long journey through the league, while rookie Jalen Milroe brings a raw skill set but needs to refine his game after a rollercoaster college career.
Projected Week 1 Starter: Sam Darnold
Given his contract and the Seahawks’ investment in him, Darnold will likely be under center to start the season.
9. New York Giants
Quarterbacks: Russell Wilson, Jameis Winston, Jaxson Dart, Tommy DeVito
You can’t ignore Russell Wilson’s illustrious career as a Super Bowl champion and a 10-time Pro Bowler, but his recent performance has been underwhelming. After a dismal second half with the Pittsburgh Steelers, the Giants hope he can regain his form. Jameis Winston brings unpredictability—his performances swing wildly from highlight reel to head-scratching. Rookie Jaxson Dart shows potential, having set impressive collegiate records, but he’ll need time to develop in the NFL.
Projected Week 1 Starter: Russell Wilson
The Giants have backed Wilson with a hefty contract, and he’ll be the one leading the charge when the season begins.
8. Denver Broncos
Quarterbacks: Bo Nix, Jarrett Stidham, Sam Ehlinger
Bo Nix had a solid rookie year, posting impressive stats but falling short in postseason play. His game management style could hold him back in high-pressure situations if he doesn’t evolve. With veterans Stidham and Ehlinger backing him up, the Broncos’ quarterback room is shaping up to have a mix of potential and experience.
Projected Week 1 Starter: Bo Nix
Despite his flaws, the Broncos will likely lean on Nix’s youthful energy and promise.
7. New Orleans Saints
Quarterbacks: Derek Carr, Tyler Shough
Derek Carr has shown flashes of brilliance when healthy, but injuries last season hindered his performance. Rookie Tyler Shough has promise, but his lack of starting experience in college leaves questions about his immediate readiness. If Carr is healthy, he’s the choice; otherwise, the job may fall into Shough’s lap.
Projected Week 1 Starter: Derek Carr
If Carr recovers well, he’ll take the reins, but keep an eye on Shough’s development as a potential backup.
6. New York Jets
Quarterbacks: Justin Fields, Tyrod Taylor, Adrian Martinez, Brady Cook
Justin Fields is looking to bounce back after improving during his time with the Steelers. With Tyrod Taylor available for guidance, the Jets aim to develop Fields’ potential further. The other two quarterbacks, Martinez and Cook, are seeking opportunities to prove they belong in the league.
Projected Week 1 Starter: Justin Fields
With Fields showing growth and the Jets needing stability, he’s poised to lead the way.
5. Tennessee Titans
Quarterbacks: Cam Ward, Will Levis, Brandon Allen, Tim Boyle
The Titans made a splash by drafting Cam Ward first overall, who brings a wealth of talent but also pressure to produce right away. Will Levis has struggled to showcase his abilities effectively in prior games, and the competition will keep these quarterbacks on their toes throughout training camps.
Projected Week 1 Starter: Cam Ward
As the top draft pick, Ward is expected to take the starting role from day one.
4. Minnesota Vikings
Quarterbacks: J.J. McCarthy, Sam Howell, Brett Rypien, Max Brosmer
After drafting quarterback J.J. McCarthy, the Vikings are hopeful about his transition despite past injury concerns. Bringing Sam Howell into the fold adds experience, but the Vikings are betting on McCarthy to be the future of the franchise.
Projected Week 1 Starter: J.J. McCarthy
If all goes according to the Vikings’ plan, McCarthy will get his shot under center.
3. Cleveland Browns
Quarterbacks: Deshaun Watson, Joe Flacco, Kenny Pickett, Dillon Gabriel, Shedeur Sanders
The Browns’ quarterback room is a whirlwind. Deshaun Watson’s comeback from injury amid disappointing seasons looms large, while veteran Joe Flacco is there for stability. With talented youngsters Pickett, Gabriel, and Sanders vying for positions, Cleveland can expect significant competition.
Projected Week 1 Starter: Joe Flacco
For now, Flacco’s experience will likely see him start, while the rest watch and learn.
2. Indianapolis Colts
Quarterbacks: Anthony Richardson, Daniel Jones, Riley Leonard, Jason Bean
Richardson’s explosive potential has sparked both excitement and concern among fans. With new leadership in Daniel Jones and projects like Leonard and Bean, the Colts have a mix of risks and possibilities at the position.
Projected Week 1 Starter: Anthony Richardson
Given his talent and the Colts’ need for a dynamic playmaker, Richardson will be the guy to watch.
1. Pittsburgh Steelers
Quarterbacks: Mason Rudolph, Will Howard, Skylar Thompson
After considerable changes at quarterback in recent seasons, the Steelers find themselves with an underwhelming trio. Mason Rudolph’s return is an attempt to bring familiarity, but the Steelers are clearly in a transition phase with rookie Will Howard arriving from college with high hopes.
Projected Week 1 Starter: Will Howard… unless the Steelers make a dramatic move to bring in a more seasoned player.
In this ever-evolving quarterback landscape, these ten teams face unique challenges as they prepare to tackle the upcoming season. Whether it’s reshaping the roster or developing raw talent, the decisions made will be pivotal in determining their success on the field.
