2025 NFL Draft: Quinn Ewers Nosedives and Best Prospect Fits for League's Worst Teams
The 2025 NFL draft quarterback class remains in flux. As multiple NFL teams come to grips with the reality of needing to make investments in the game's most important position, the incoming crop needs to show more as a whole.
Case in point, Texas' Quinn Ewers, Georgia's Carson Beck and Alabama's Jalen Milroe have all been trending down in recent weeks. Outside of Miami's Cam Ward and Colorado's Shedeur Sanders, the quarterback class seems to be in upheaval.
As many as eight teams may be looking to invest in a first-round signal-caller. Other prospects need to earn that status, or those organizations will be going in another direction.
Other franchises can invest in top talents at other positions, starting with Colorado's Travis Hunter. However, he isn't included this week as a top fit for the teams projected to have top-10 picks. His talent isn't in question, but how exactly he helps in certain situations—either as a cornerback or a wide receiver—has yet to be determined. Whichever team selects Hunter must have a plan for him and how to properly utilize his unique skill set.
The Bleacher Report Scouting Department of Brandon Thorn, Cory Giddings, Dame Parson and Matt Holder looked at each of those situations to see who might be the ideal fit, while also discussing this week's draft prospects who impressed or disappointed coming out college football's Week 8 action.
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1. Edge Mykel Williams, Georgia
Georgia's Mykel Williams had positive momentum as a draft prospect before the 2024 campaign even began. His traits didn't just make him look like a future first-round selection; some viewed him as the No. 1 overall prospect.
Williams didn't play that way to start the season, though he was hampered by an ankle injury. But he finally played at an elite level against the Texas Longhorns, notching a pair of sacks (his first two of the season) and a forced fumble.
"It's been a tough season for Williams, who battled through an injury earlier in the year while getting off to a slow start," Holder said. "However, he was on a big stage this past weekend against Texas and delivered his best game of the season. Even better, the Georgia product was able to beat fellow potential first-round pick Kelvin Banks Jr. for one of those sacks to help boost his draft stock."
2. Edge Antwaun Powell-Ryland, Virginia Tech
Casual college football fans will have a tough time naming the person who leads the FBS in sacks. (Technically, two do.) But Virginia Tech's Antwaun Powell-Ryland has been doing so against better competition than San Diego State's Trey White.
"To call Powell-Ryland a pass-rush specialist would be a bit of an understatement," Holder said. "He compiled 9.5 sacks last season to generate some draft buzz heading into this season, and he already surpassed that figure with 11 sacks through seven games in 2024.
"This past week, he posted his second four-sack game of the season, and he did it against good competition in the Boston College Eagles. The Hokie has some quickness and twitch to him that should help him carve out a role on third downs in the NFL."
3. RB Dylan Sampson, Tennessee
The Tennessee Volunteers offense is known for Josh Heupel's spread passing attack that takes advantage of spread hashes and simple reads. But running back Dylan Sampson serves as the driving force behind this year's Vols offense.
The junior prospect has run for 100-plus yards in five of six games this season, including 139 and two touchdowns during Saturday's victory over the Alabama Crimson Tide.
"Sampson is the SEC's leading rusher by a wide margin," Parson said. "The 20-year-old runs with immense patience and vision to find his way into the open field. Sampson brings explosiveness and home run speed to the Vols rushing attack. The underclassman's body control and contact balance are impressive, as he can churn out extra yardage after contact.
"Sampson has proved his name should be mentioned with the other top running back prospects in an already loaded draft class."
4. WR Xavier Restrepo, Miami
The Miami Hurricanes' renaissance wouldn't be complete without wide receiver Xavier Restrepo. The fifth-year senior has been a dynamic weapon for Heisman Trophy hopeful Cam Ward.
Restrepo currently ranks fourth in yards per reception (17.6) among receivers with 35 or more catches. He leads the Hurricanes in receptions, receiving yards and touchdown grabs.
"Restrepo is having a great season as Ward's WR1," Parson said. "Restrepo defeats man and zone coverages with route-running, tempo and leveraging. He is the go-to receiver within the Hurricanes' offense.
"Restrepo is a tough, gritty pass-catcher who resembles Indianapolis Colts receiver Josh Downs. He will bring reliability and stability to an NFL passing attack and will thrive as a chain-moving slot receiver."
5. S Xavier Watts, Notre Dame
Ball skills are always a big selling point for defensive backs.
A year ago, Notre Dame safety Xavier Watts tied for the FBS lead with seven interceptions. The Bronko Nagurski Trophy winner hasn't been quite as prolific this season, though he has two picks in the Fighting Irish's last three contests. But Watts still needed to show some things other than being an opportunistic defensive back.
"Watts' draft stock has continued on an upward trends thanks to improvements and consistency in his coverage skills," Giddings said. "Already recognized for his exceptional run defense, Watts has added more versatility to his game by refining his ability to cover receivers. His progress in maintaining leverage and closing passing lanes has enhanced his overall value as a defender.
"While his physicality and aggressive tackling remain standout qualities, Watts' development in coverage is positioning him as a more complete safety, making him a potential asset for any team seeking a reliable presence both in run support and downfield coverage."
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1. QB Quinn Ewers, Texas
Quinn Ewers has been heralded as top talent since his high school days. However, his on-field performance has never fully reflected the potential identified throughout multiple recruiting and draft cycles.
Against the Georgia Bulldogs, Ewers was benched in favor of Arch Manning because head coach Steve Sarkisian was looking for "a spark." Ewers returned to the game but never looked comfortable playing against the most talented defense he'll likely face all season.
"Ewers' performance against Georgia last weekend dropped his stock like a stone in water," Parson said. "He struggled to navigate the pocket and negotiate pressure from the Bulldogs' pass rush. He did not evade rushers, instead standing flat-footed in the pocket. His tendency to settle for underneath routes and checkdowns hurt his offense.
"Ewers' inability to create with his legs created disadvantageous and conflicting situations."
2. WR Savion Williams, TCU
With Quentin Johnson out of the way, Savion Williams was meant to be the next big target in TCU's offense. It hasn't materialized that way, though.
During the 2023 season, Williams did lead the rebuilding Horned Frogs with 573 receiving yards. However, the 6'5", 223-pound target has fallen off quite a bit this year. He has managed more than 70 receiving yards in only one game this season.
"Williams is a strong and gifted athlete for his size and stature," Parson said. "Unfortunately, he hasn't produced anywhere near his skill or talent level. Against the Utah Utes, he was more effective as a ball-carrier than a receiver.
"Once believed to be the top draftable talent for TCU's passing attack, Williams appears to be more of an afterthought, thus hurting his draft stock."
3. DT Ty Robinson, Nebraska
A strong start to the season can leave a good impression that lingers, even if it's not totally warranted a few weeks down the road. The Nebraska Cornhuskers started strong against weak competition, only to falter against better teams.
Defensive tackle Ty Robinson drew early praise. But he hasn't quite been the same impact performer as of late.
"Robinson gained some attention earlier in the season with a big performance against Colorado, a game that had plenty of eyeballs on it," Holder said. "However, the Cornhusker has been pretty quiet since then, making that outing more of an outlier, as he seemingly was just taking advantage of a weak offensive line from the Buffaloes."
4. RB Jamal Haynes, Georgia Tech
Georgia Tech's Jamal Haynes is one of the nation's most natural runners. He racked up 298 rushing yards in the first two weeks of October against the Duke Blue Devils and North Carolina Tar Heels. But he couldn't wiggle his way free against the Notre Dame Fighting Irish.
"Haynes was stifled and shut down by Notre Dame's defense," Parson said. "Haynes had eight carries for 15 yards, averaging 1.9 yards per carry. He was bottled up and kept from generating any big or explosive plays for the Yellow Jackets' offense.
"The 5'9", 190-pound Haynes doesn't offer prototypical size at the RB position. When contained, he must find ways to counter and still be an effective runner."
5. S Keon Sabb, Alabama
At times, Alabama redshirt sophomore safety Keon Sabb looks like the best player on the field. Other times, he looks lost. To make matters worse, Sabb will be "down for a while" after suffering a lower-body injury.
"Sabb is trending down this season due to inconsistent performances in both coverage and run defense," Giddings said. "His lack of fluidity and athleticism in coverage has made it difficult for him to keep pace with receivers, often leading to separation. Compounding the issue, his tackling has suffered from poor angles, and his physicality hasn't matched the expectations for a bigger safety. The tightness in his movement further limits his ability to adjust in space, leaving him vulnerable to being outmaneuvered by offensive players.
"To fulfill his potential, Sabb will need to address these shortcomings, especially if he aims to become the versatile defensive piece that NFL teams expect."
1. Cleveland Browns
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The Cleveland Browns' future is rapidly becoming more clear.
The Browns effectively waved the white flag on the season by trading star receiver Amari Cooper to the Buffalo Bills. Deshaun Watson's ruptured Achilles tendon further cemented the lost season. More trades could be coming ahead of the Nov. 5 trade deadline.
The Browns now know a reset is necessary, particularly behind center. Watson may never play another down for the organization (or in the NFL). The Browns must take their medicine after handing out the worst contract in league history and find a long-term solution at quarterback.
The draft is the most obvious path forward. They could bring in a quarterback on a manageable rookie deal while dealing with a massive dead cap hit if they release Watson.
As the league's worst team (based on Bleacher Report's latest power rankings), Cleveland should have its choice of top quarterback prospects.
Top Option: QB Cam Ward, Miami
Fit: "Ward would be a good fit for the Browns, who appear poised to undertake a much-needed reset at quarterback. Ward's full array of skills will give the coaching staff a passer capable of utilizing the entire field, especially off of play action.
"Before he suffered a season-ending Achilles injury, Watson was the league's worst deep-thrower statistically. Ward excels pushing the football down the field with a combination of arm talent and touch. He is a full-field passer with plus mobility.
"Pairing Ward with the team's young receivers would be a sound plan to build toward the future." — Parson
Other Options: QB Shedeur Sanders, Colorado; WR Tetairoa McMillan, Arizona; CB Travis Hunter, Colorado
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2. New England Patriots
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Maybe Drake Maye didn't need to wait before becoming the New England Patriots' starting quarterback. The rookie is still dealing with all of the same issues that Jacoby Brissett did, but Maye is showing what it means to have a real talent behind center.
Maye's five touchdowns in his first two starts are as many as all other Patriots quarterbacks threw in the team's previous nine contests, dating back to Dec. 17 of last season.
This year's third overall draft pick needs more help, though. This offseason, the Patriots should prioritize finding someone who can become Maye's security blanket in the passing game. They could even target a few new pass-catchers to fully build around their new franchise quarterback.
Top Option: WR Tetairoa McMillan, Arizona
Fit: "The Patriots were rumored to be interested in Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Tee Higgins this offseason. McMillan would fill their need for a true WR1-caliber pass-catcher.
"McMillan brings similar height, weight and catch radius as Higgins, but he's a more fluid mover and route-runner. He wins with size (6'5", 212 lbs) and the ability to separate from defensive backs. McMillan could grow and flourish alongside Maye." — Parson
Other Options: Edge Mykel Williams, Georgia; OT Will Campbell, LSU; WR Trey Harris, Ole Miss
3. Carolina Panthers
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Bryce Young will once again be the Carolina Panthers' starting quarterback this weekend. Nobody should expect this to be the reset that the 2023 No. 1 overall pick needed to regain his confidence and not look back, though.
Young will only be in the lineup because Andy Dalton suffered a sprained thumb in a car accident earlier this week. He'll be facing the ferocious Denver Broncos defense, which ranks third in both points and yards allowed this season.
Maybe Young will impress now that he's been given another chance. Until that happens, though, the Panthers need to continue searching for an actual long-term answer at quarterback.
A potential top-three selection in this year's draft could position Carolina to achieve that goal.
Top Option: QB Shedeur Sanders, Colorado
Fit: "Sanders has proven his ability to handle pressure behind a leaky offensive line and effectively distribute the football to his weapons. If given an opportunity, Sanders is a highly accurate passer with functional mobility to create out of structure with his legs.
Panthers head coach Dave Canales could be in the market for his new QB this offseason. Sanders would fit well with Carolina's young, explosive, athletic receivers." — Parson
Other Options: QB Cam Ward, Miami; Edge James Pearce Jr., Tennessee; TE Colston Loveland, Michigan;
4. Tennessee Titans
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Will Levis' lingering shoulder injury and his replacement in the lineup by Mason Rudolph only made the Tennessee Titans' path even more obvious. They still need an answer at quarterback.
Brian Callahan became an NFL head coach because of how he handled Joe Burrow in Cincinnati. His long-term success in Tennessee will come down to whom the Titans field behind center. Right now, it's not good enough.
At 1-5, Tennessee is one of four teams with only a single victory. Three of those teams will likely jockey this offseason to find an upgrade at the game's most important position.
Levis still has a chance to return from his injury and impress. So far, he hasn't. He ranks 30th leaguewide in passing attempts, yet he's tied for the second-most interceptions (7).
Without a legitimate quarterback behind center, Callahan might not ever get a fair shot to show what he and his staff can do.
Top Option: QB Garrett Nussmeier, LSU
Fit: "The Levis experience has already been tumultuous for Callahan. This offseason, he should have has the chance to pick a quarterback that will fit his offense.
Nussmeier is an accurate, full-field passer who could lead the Titans' offense. Much like Burrow, he possesses similar qualities in the pocket to win with timing, rhythm, poise and accuracy. This prospect-to-team fit makes sense systematically and stylistically." — Parson
Other Options: WR Luther Burden III, Missouri; TE Colston Loveland, Michigan; DL Mason Graham, Michigan
5. Jacksonville Jaguars
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After an 0-4 start, wins in two of the last three games have given the Jacksonville Jaguars a little spring into their step.
To be fair, those wins came against the Indianapolis Colts with Joe Flacco under center and New England Patriots. However, it shows that the Jaguars still have some growth potential.
Granted, they're heading into a brutal stretch of their schedule. They're set to face the Green Bay Packers, Philadelphia Eagles, Minnesota Vikings and Detroit Lions prior to their Week 12 bye. A month from now, the Jaguars could be 2-9, and one victory in London won't mean much of anything.
Jacksonville's defense remains its biggest issue. The Jaguars are allowing the sixth-most total yards, third-most points and second-most passing yards of any team this season.
Top Option: CB Will Johnson, Michigan
Fit: "Johnson would be a strong addition to the Jaguars' defense, offering the size and physicality they need in their secondary. His versatility allows him to excel in both man and zone coverages, which aligns well with the Jaguars' aggressive, press-man defensive schemes. Johnson's length and tackling ability make him a valuable asset in run support, while his ball-hawking skills could bolster Jacksonville's ability to create turnovers.
"Johnson would provide exactly what the Jaguars need: a dynamic, playmaking defensive back." — Giddings
Other Options: CB Travis Hunter, Colorado; S Malaki Starks, Georgia; TE Harold Fannin Jr., Bowling Green
6. Las Vegas Raiders
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Quarterback. Quarterback. Quarterback. There's no reason to discuss anything else regarding the Las Vegas Raiders.
In April, the Raiders were left out in the cold when it came to a quarterback class that featured six first-round pick. All of them came off the board before the Raiders were on the clock, despite the front office's attempts to trade up for one.
Las Vegas did end up with Brock Bowers, who is setting records left and right for a rookie tight end. He's everything the organization hoped he'd be. But despite how good Bowers has been, the Raiders would have traded him for an opportunity to land a franchise quarterback in a heartbeat, because the NFL is a quarterback-driven league.
A team can't compete when it has the likes of Gardner Minshew II, Aidan O'Connell and Desmond Ridder as its top options.
Top Option: QB Cade Klubnik, Clemson
Fit: "Klubnik is playing high-level football right now. He confidently operates Clemson's Air Raid offense with control. The junior prospect has a good floor and high ceiling. He is a plus-level athlete who expands the offensive playbook and play-calling as a runner.
"Klubnik's passing ability has improved this season, too. He has a gifted arm to make throws at every level, combined with growing accuracy/ball placement. This season, he is diagnosing pre- and post-snap defense well.
"The Raiders need someone who can play within the confines of their offense and make key plays with his legs. Klubnik fits that mold." — Parson
Other Options: Pick any other quarterback who might be available.
7. New York Giants
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It's difficult to look at the New York Giants and not wonder whether they plan to move on from quarterback Daniel Jones this offseason. But the organization could elect to keep its current course, too.
"Obviously we're all very disappointed with where we are right now [after a 2-5 start]," owner John Mara told reporters this week. "But I'm going to say one thing: We are not making any changes this season and I do not anticipate making any changes in the offseason either."
Mara was specifically discussing general manager Joe Schoen and head coach Brian Daboll. Even so, ownership agreed to sign Jones to a four-year, $160 million contract extension only 19 months ago. They might be inclined to give him one more shot while they look to strengthen his surrounding cast, specifically a faulty offensive front.
Top Option: OL Will Campbell, LSU
Fit: "It makes sense for the Giants to pull the trigger on the draft's most polished offensive lineman for several reasons. First, the unit lacks any high-end starter outside of left tackle Andrew Thomas, who is out for the year with a foot injury. He'll have now missed 18 games since 2023 due to this foot injury and last year's hamstring injury.
"Campbell would provide some insurance against the durability questions starting to arise with Thomas. He'd also be an improvement at right tackle or either guard spot." — Thorn
Other Options: QB Jalen Milroe, Alabama; DL Mason Graham, Michigan; TE Tyler Warren, Penn State
8. New Orleans Saints
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Derek Carr will eventually return to the New Orleans Saints lineup after he's healed from his oblique injury. Rookie Spencer Rattler hasn't created excitement in the veteran's absence. Quarterback may be the obvious path forward for the franchise.
However, the Saints are an older team when compared to the rest of the league. Carr, Alvin Kamara, Cameron Jordan, Demario Davis, Marshon Lattimore and Tyrann Mathieu are all signed through at least the 2025 campaign. The veteran core doesn't necessarily have the time or patience to draft and develop a quarterback over a multi-year period.
Instead, general manager Mickey Loomis can continue to build up the rest of the roster, starting with a defensive interior that been particularly weak this fall.
Top Option: DL Mason Graham, Michigan
Fit: "The Saints are likely trending toward a rebuild, so adding a talented prospect like Graham, who is the No. 2 overall player on B/R's big board, qualifies as a best-player-available selection. He does play the same position as Bryan Bresee, but Graham would be an upgrade and is too talented for what could be a rebuilding team to pass up." — Holder
Other Options: S Malaki Starks, Georgia; OT Kelvin Banks Jr., Texas; DL Deone Walker, Kentucky
9. Miami Dolphins
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When discussing the Miami Dolphins, three things should automatically be included in the draft conversation.
First, they'll likely be drafting outside of the top 10 with quarterback Tua Tagovailoa (concussion) back in the lineup. Second, their biggest need isn't at a premium position, thus the potential fit in this discussion may be viewed as a reach. (Granted, the Dolphins could move around to make it happen.) Finally, an investment to keep Tagovailoa upright is the smartest plan for the organization.
As such, the offensive line should receive the greatest amount of attention. Both guard spots are where focus should shift since Miami can upgrade both sides. When offensive line coach Butch Barry is discussing those specific players' performance, that isn't a good sign.
Top Option: IOL Tate Ratledge, Georgia
Fit: "Miami's run-centered offensive scheme needs quality run-blockers to make the system go. Ratledge checks that box, and he's also able to anchor on command to help create a firm pocket for Tagovailoa.
"Ratledge was excellent before suffering an ankle injury earlier this season, but he should return over the next few weeks. If he can pick up where he left off with his blend of size, play strength and pass-protection skills, Ratledge should be in play as a potential first-round pick." — Thorn
Other Options: RB Ashton Jeanty, Boise State; DL Tyleik Williams, Ohio State; WR Emeka Egbuka, Ohio State
10. New York Jets
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Despite firing head coach Robert Saleh and then trading for star receiver Davante Adams earlier this month, the New York Jets have lost four straight games. They're now 2-5 on the year.
What the Jets do next offseason is entirely dependent on whether Aaron Rodgers chooses to play out his contract.
If the soon-to-be 41-year-old quarterback decides to retire, everything changes. Until then, New York must find impact players early in the draft to help Rodgers and Co. piece together a winning program.
The Jets have a quality defense, but the unit's safety play can be upgraded with the right addition.
Top Option: S Malaki Starks, Georgia
Fit: "Starks fits the Jets' current defensive scheme to a T, providing a versatile safety capable of excelling in both coverage and run support. With Saleh gone, it's unclear which direction the defense will go next season, though. Still, his high football IQ and overall elite athleticism is a good place to start for any incoming defensive coordinator.
"Starks' physicality and quick trigger in run support also align with the Jets' need for an aggressive, downhill safety. His athleticism and ball skills can complement the Jets' secondary, bringing playmaking ability and toughness to an already solid unit." — Giddings
Other Options: DL Deone Walker, Kentucky; TE Tyler Warren, Penn State; Edge Jalon Walker, Georgia
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