NFL Draft Strategies Emerge as Teams Eye Quarterback Class

GREEN BAY, Wis. — With just a week remaining until the 2025 NFL Draft, several teams are scrambling to solidify their quarterback situation. Speculation is rife following the recent announcements from various franchises about their draft strategies and player acquisitions.

The presumptive No. 1 overall pick has remained a hot topic for over a month as teams evaluate which quarterback to select. The New York Giants, sitting with the No. 3 pick, are particularly keen on assessing their options, notably the talented QB with a magnetic play style favored by head coach Brian Daboll. Reports suggest this player will not fall out of the first round, indicating the Giants may look to trade up from their second-round spot if necessary.

Another quarterback generating buzz is the 6-foot-5, 219-pound Shough from Louisville, praised for his natural passing ability and pocket presence. As the New Orleans Saints grapple with the aftermath of their franchise’s struggles since their last Super Bowl win in 2010, they might also consider pivoting toward a young signal-caller in the second round after addressing other positions.

Despite the hype surrounding certain quarterbacks, the draft is believed to be weaker than in previous years, with one NFC scout noting, “You can basically get the same player at 23 that you can at 8.” This outlook may compel teams like the Saints, who are thirsting for a quarterback, to take unconventional routes.

Colleges are producing intriguing prospects this year. Syracuse‘s McCord has been noted for breaking several Donovan McNabb records and showcasing resilience in adversity, making him attractive to multiple teams, regardless of the ongoing uncertainty surrounding veteran quarterbacks in the league.

As teams prepare strategies, a significant development occurred when the Cleveland Browns secured a one-year deal with Joe Flacco. As a former Comeback Player of the Year, Flacco’s presence complicates the Browns’ drafting prospects, particularly as Deshaun Watson‘s future hangs in the balance post-injury.

Browns General Manager Andrew Berry articulated the importance of weighing all options as the draft approaches, revealing, “There’s a bunch of players that we like at the top of the draft. We continue to do our work on them, and I would say including quarterbacks.” With two established quarterbacks now on the roster, a best-player-available approach seems plausible.

Meanwhile, the New York Jets are also under a new regime following head coach Aaron Glenn’s hiring. The team faces pressure to find talent that can enhance its current roster, as speculation circulates regarding potential trades involving Breece Hall, which could influence their context in hunt for a rookie QB. Their No. 7 pick now appears ripe for any number of directions outside of selecting a quarterback.

With franchises like the Chicago Bears and Seattle Seahawks also making roster moves that could impact draft decisions, anticipation grows over how teams will navigate the complexity of 2025’s quarterback class. As always, all eyes will be on April 24, when the first round unfolds.