With less than three weeks left before the 2025 NFL Draft, excitement is building for what promises to be an intriguing year for quarterbacks. While some pundits are skeptical about the overall talent in this class compared to previous years, former NFL star Robert Griffin III believes that the 2025 quarterbacks are more battle-tested than ever before.
A New Kind of Quarterback: Experience Over Star Power
This year’s QB class features several strong candidates, including Cam Ward and Shedeur Sanders, both of whom have impressed throughout their college careers. Despite this, many critics argue that this group doesn’t compare to the star-studded quarterbacks from recent drafts, such as Caleb Williams, Jayden Daniels, and Drake Maye. Griffin, however, strongly disagrees, emphasizing the resilience and experience of these quarterbacks as key factors that could help them thrive in the NFL.
In a video shared on his X (formerly Twitter) account, Griffin spoke out about the 2025 QB class, calling it the “most battle-tested” he has ever seen. He explained his reasoning, drawing attention to the adversity many of these players have overcome during their college careers.
“I think this quarterback class of 2025 is the most battle-tested ever,” Griffin said. “Let me explain to you what I mean. Shedeur Sanders turned around two college programs, Jackson State and Colorado, with six different offensive coordinators. Cam Ward turned around two programs and excelled at three after being a no-star recruit coming out of high school.”
Notable Standouts in the 2025 QB Class
Griffin’s praise doesn’t stop there. He also highlighted other quarterbacks who have demonstrated immense growth and leadership on their respective teams. One standout, Jaxson Dart, has left a significant mark at Ole Miss, breaking records once held by Eli Manning. Under Dart’s leadership, Ole Miss achieved back-to-back 10-win seasons and even clinched their first-ever 11-win season in school history. This success came after Dart made the bold decision to leave USC and join the competitive SEC.
Griffin also pointed out the impressive turnaround by Alabama’s Jalen Milroe, who bounced back after a tough benching in 2023. Milroe’s resilience in the face of adversity speaks to the kind of toughness these quarterbacks possess—an essential trait in the NFL.
Additionally, Griffin made sure to recognize the achievements of Will Howard, who guided Ohio State to a National Championship before deciding to enter the 2025 Draft after a stellar performance for Kansas.
The Underdogs Who Might Surprise NFL Teams
Though the 2025 QB class may not boast as many household names as in years past, Griffin believes that there is significant value to be found in these players. The quarterbacks are not only battle-hardened, but many have had to navigate complex situations, switching schools or playing under multiple coaching staffs.
Griffin praised players like Riley Leonard, Kyle McCord, and Dillon Gabriel, all of whom have had to adjust to multiple schools during their careers. This adaptability, Griffin argues, could serve them well at the next level.
The lack of a standout, surefire first overall pick has some analysts questioning the depth of this draft. However, Griffin’s optimism points to a future where gritty, experienced quarterbacks could make an impact far beyond what current expectations suggest.
Shedeur Sanders and Cam Ward: Expected First-Round Picks
Among the quarterbacks likely to be taken in the first round, Shedeur Sanders and Cam Ward are the top two names on everyone’s radar. Sanders, the talented signal-caller from Colorado, has been making waves all season long and is projected to be selected with the ninth overall pick by the New Orleans Saints.
Meanwhile, Ward, who has made a name for himself as a dual-threat quarterback, is likely to go first overall, with the Tennessee Titans showing strong interest in him.
Additionally, Jaxson Dart is expected to be taken toward the end of the first round, possibly by teams like the Pittsburgh Steelers (21st pick), who are eager to bring in a young, dynamic QB. The New York Giants and Cleveland Browns are also in the market for a new quarterback, with Dart, Jalen Milroe, and Tyler Shough emerging as top candidates.
The Future of the NFL Quarterback Position
While the 2025 NFL Draft class may not boast the same level of star power as previous years, Robert Griffin III’s praise for these quarterbacks highlights an important shift in how NFL teams value college players. It’s no longer just about raw talent or potential—it’s about character, resilience, and the ability to thrive under pressure. The quarterbacks from this class may just prove to be some of the most valuable picks in the long run.
As the NFL Draft draws near, the anticipation continues to build for the quarterbacks who have already demonstrated their ability to lead, overcome adversity, and shine in high-pressure situations. The 2025 class may not be full of household names just yet, but it’s clear that these quarterbacks are ready to prove their worth on the biggest stage of all.
With the draft looming, NFL teams are facing tough decisions, especially when it comes to selecting a quarterback. As Robert Griffin III argues, the 2025 class might just be more prepared than any before it. While it may lack the instant star power that other drafts have boasted, the experience and resilience of this year’s quarterbacks could very well make them the foundation of future NFL success.
Only time will tell if these “battle-tested” quarterbacks can translate their college successes into NFL stardom. For now, the stage is set, and the future of the league’s quarterback position may look a lot different than what fans have come to expect.
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