Moore, who transferred to Oregon after a brief stint at UCLA, has quickly emerged as one of the most polished young quarterbacks in the nation. McShay praised his smooth mechanics, advanced accuracy, and ability to manipulate defenses—traits that stand out even in a stacked 2026 QB class.

The declaration comes as Oregon prepares for a marquee matchup against Penn State, led by fellow top quarterback prospect Drew Allar. McShay has already made clear where he stands, writing in The McShay Report that Moore’s poise and passing consistency put him ahead of Allar heading into the season.

With scouts already circling and expectations rising, Moore will have every opportunity to solidify himself as QB1 on draft boards. If he delivers on McShay’s lofty projection, Oregon could be sending one of the most highly touted passers of the decade into the NFL.

Thamel surveyed 25 NFL scouts and executives, asking them to project who will ultimately emerge as the top quarterback in the class. The responses revealed both excitement and uncertainty across the league, with seven different signal-callers receiving at least one vote.

Leading the pack was South Carolina’s LaNorris Sellers, who earned eight votes, edging out LSU’s Garrett Nussmeier (seven). Sellers’ combination of size, arm talent, and dual-threat ability has scouts intrigued about his ceiling as a franchise quarterback.

Behind the two frontrunners was a group of contenders, each drawing support from multiple evaluators. Miami’s Carson Beck and Oklahoma’s John Mateer received three votes apiece, while Penn State’s Drew Allar earned two. Arizona State’s Sam Leavitt and Texas star Arch Manning rounded out the list with one vote each.

The spread of votes underscores how fluid the quarterback landscape remains, with no clear consensus QB1 emerging just yet. Still, Sellers’ showing suggests that momentum is building around the Gamecocks’ rising star as the 2026 draft cycle begins to take shape.

If Sellers can build on his breakout campaign in Columbia, he could position himself as South Carolina’s first quarterback ever to be selected No. 1 overall.

Here’s a breakdown of the projected floors and ceilings for each of these high-profile second-year QBs, based on insights from Pro Football Focus:

Caleb Williams (Chicago Bears)

Ceiling: Jordan Love

Floor: Bust
Chicago’s franchise savior has shown flashes of brilliance, but there’s real concern about his decision-making under pressure. His ceiling resembles the calm, poised growth we’ve seen in Jordan Love—but the bust potential still looms large if the Bears can’t protect him or develop a consistent offense.

Jayden Daniels (Washington Commanders)

Ceiling: Lamar Jackson

Floor: Kyler Murray
Daniels’ electric mobility and deep ball potential offer shades of MVP-level Lamar Jackson. But concerns over durability and long-term scheme fit have many wondering if he ends up closer to Kyler Murray—talented, but inconsistent and oft-injured.

Drake Maye (New England Patriots)

Ceiling: Trevor Lawrence

Floor: Daniel Jones
Maye has the arm and athletic tools to be a franchise quarterback. But if his mechanics and decision-making don’t tighten up, he could fall into the middling, turnover-prone mold of Daniel Jones.

Michael Penix Jr. (Atlanta Falcons)

Ceiling: Justin Herbert

Floor: Jameis Winston
Penix’s arm strength and confidence evoke comparisons to Herbert, but his turnover history and aggressive nature give off strong Jameis Winston vibes. If he finds a rhythm, the ceiling is high; if not, it could be volatile.

J.J. McCarthy (Minnesota Vikings)

Ceiling: Joe Burrow

Floor: Sam Darnold
McCarthy is praised for his poise and leadership, and he could evolve into a Burrow-esque presence with the right development. But a low-volume college resume and raw mechanics still carry Darnold-like risk.

Bo Nix (Denver Broncos)

Ceiling: Drew Brees

Floor: Mac Jones
Nix’s accuracy and processing speed have shades of Brees if everything breaks right. But if his limitations as a playmaker persist, he may plateau like Mac Jones—a solid starter, but nothing more.

Final Word:
This group offers a wide spectrum of outcomes—from potential MVPs to full-blown busts. What’s clear heading into the 2025-26 season is that each of these young quarterbacks faces unique pressure. Whether they hit their ceiling or crash into their floor may define their franchise’s future for years to come.

McElroy’s rankings, shared via On3 Sports, included rising stars and established starters, but left out the Texas quarterback who has long been touted as college football royalty. The omission quickly stirred conversation across social media and the broader football community.

Here’s McElroy’s Top 10:

1. Cade Klubnik – Clemson

2. John Mateer – Oklahoma

3. Sam Leavitt – Arizona State

4. Drew Allar – Penn State

5. Garrett Nussmeier – LSU

6. Carson Beck – Miami

7. LaNorris Sellers – South Carolina

8. Sawyer Robertson – Baylor

9. DJ Lagway – Florida

10. Haynes King – Georgia Tech

Notably, this list leaves out several big names, including Arch Manning and Demond Williams Jr., both of whom many fans believe are poised for breakout seasons. The post by @thecollegefootballu even called out the absence, asking followers:

“Greg McElroy doesn’t have Arch Manning as one of the Top 10 QB’s for this season
Common sense or wrong?”

Reactions were swift and mixed. Some fans supported the shake-up, pointing out that Manning still has much to prove on the field, while others felt the name recognition and talent warranted a spot. Commenters also chimed in with predictions of their own:

“Lagway top 3 fr,” said one user.
“Demond Williams Jr will finish top 10 maybe top 5 this year tho ,” predicted another.

As the season approaches, the debate around who truly deserves to be in the top tier of college quarterbacks will only intensify. McElroy’s list might not be the final word, but it’s certainly set the tone for a heated preseason conversation.

Here’s a breakdown of the top quarterbacks in the 2025 draft class:

Top Quarterback Prospects

• Cam Ward (Miami) – A dynamic playmaker with a strong arm and impressive mobility, Ward has positioned himself as one of the top quarterbacks in this class. His ability to extend plays and deliver deep throws will make him highly sought after by QB-needy teams.

• Shedeur Sanders (Colorado) – The son of Hall of Famer Deion Sanders, Shedeur has proven himself as a top-tier passer. With elite accuracy, poise in the pocket, and a strong football IQ, he’s expected to be a high draft pick.

• Jaxson Dart (Ole Miss) – A gunslinger with a fearless mentality, Dart has shown the ability to make big plays under pressure. His experience in a high-powered SEC offense makes him an intriguing option.

• Quinn Ewers (Texas) – One of the most hyped quarterbacks in recent memory, Ewers possesses elite arm talent and has shown flashes of brilliance. If he can improve his consistency, he could be a franchise QB.

• Kyle McCord (Syracuse) – After transferring from Ohio State, McCord had a breakout year with Syracuse. His ability to make quick decisions and execute in a pro-style offense makes him a solid prospect.

• Jalen Milroe (Alabama) – A dual-threat quarterback with explosive athleticism, Milroe is a dangerous playmaker who can hurt defenses with both his arm and legs. His upside is immense.

• Dillon Gabriel (Oregon) – A seasoned veteran, Gabriel’s leadership and accuracy make him an intriguing mid-round prospect. His experience in multiple offensive schemes adds to his value.

• Tyler Shough (Louisville) – A big-bodied quarterback with a strong arm, Shough has the tools to develop into a reliable starter at the next level.

• Will Howard (Ohio State) – A steady and reliable passer, Howard’s experience in a competitive program makes him an attractive option for teams looking for a well-rounded QB.

• Riley Leonard (Notre Dame) – A strong, athletic quarterback with great size and mobility, Leonard has the potential to rise up draft boards as teams look for dual-threat capabilities.

Final Thoughts

This year’s quarterback class features a mix of potential franchise signal-callers and high-upside developmental prospects. With teams constantly searching for their next cornerstone quarterback, expect many of these names to come off the board early in the draft.

Who will emerge as the top pick? That remains to be seen, but one thing is certain—this class has the talent to shake up the league for years to come.

The Market Dynamics

The debate around quarterback salaries is intensifying. For instance, the discussion about whether Tua Tagovailoa’s contract should fall closer to $50 million or $60 million annually is a reflection of this trend. Agents argue that with the rising market rates, $55 million should be considered the baseline. Despite the impressive performances of Trevor Lawrence, some argue that he statistically hasn’t matched Tua’s achievements, yet the market still dictates a high price.

The Issue of Value vs. Market Rate

The core of the debate lies in whether quarterbacks are being paid based on market trends rather than their actual worth. Critics argue that players like Daniel Jones, Trevor Lawrence, and Dak Prescott are receiving salaries that exceed their on-field value. The suggestion is that a more merit-based pay system might prevent such inflated contracts.

Setting New Standards

The contract of Trevor Lawrence, reportedly at $275 million, has set a new benchmark that influences negotiations for other quarterbacks, like Jordan Love. It’s anticipated that Love might command a contract around the $55 million mark, highlighting how Lawrence’s deal has reshaped expectations.

Owners’ Reactions

The Jacksonville Jaguars’ owner, Tony Khan, expressed positive sentiments about Lawrence’s contract, calling it “great news.” However, the hefty contract has sparked a broader conversation among owners about the sustainability of such high salaries. The concern is that dedicating a large percentage of cap space to one player can weaken overall team performance and lead to less competitive games.

Public Opinion

There’s a mixed reaction to the idea of a QB salary cap. While there’s little sympathy for billionaire owners, some fans and analysts see the merit in capping quarterback salaries. The argument is that spending excessively on a single player detracts from the team’s overall strength and leads to a decline in game quality.

In conclusion, the discussion around a potential quarterback salary cap underscores the tension between market-driven salaries and perceived player value. As contracts continue to climb, the NFL may need to explore new strategies to ensure financial balance and maintain competitive integrity across the league.

Among the notable fifth-year quarterbacks drafted in the top three picks are Joe Burrow, Matt Ryan, Baker Mayfield, and Carson Wentz. Each of these quarterbacks has made significant contributions to their teams and has established themselves as key figures in the NFL landscape.

Despite concerns about age, the success of these fifth-year quarterbacks underscores the importance of experience and maturity in the transition to the professional level. Rather than being hindered by their advanced age, these quarterbacks have thrived under the pressure of the NFL, showcasing their abilities to lead their teams to victory.

As of April 12, 2024, the top picks of the upcoming NFL Draft are shaping up to include some promising prospects, including fifth-year quarterback Jayden Daniels. With the Chicago Bears leaning towards selecting Caleb Williams as the first overall pick and the Washington Commanders eyeing Jayden Daniels at number two, there is growing recognition of the value that experienced quarterbacks bring to the draft.

In addition to Daniels, other top prospects such as Drake Maye and JJ McCarthy are also generating significant interest from NFL teams. With the New England Patriots and the Minnesota Vikings considering these talented quarterbacks with their early picks, the stage is set for a competitive and dynamic draft class.

For Jayden Daniels, in particular, his accolades, including a Heisman Trophy win, highlight his dominance and potential to make an immediate impact in the NFL. As teams prepare to make their selections in the draft, the success of fifth-year quarterbacks serves as a reminder that experience can be a valuable asset in building a championship-caliber team.

In conclusion, the inclusion of fifth-year quarterbacks in the top picks of the NFL Draft demonstrates the evolving perception of age in professional football. With proven success stories like Burrow, Ryan, Mayfield, and Wentz paving the way, the upcoming draft class, including Jayden Daniels, has the opportunity to continue this trend and make a lasting impact in the NFL.

As the football community eagerly anticipates the draft, updated rankings of the 2024 NFL quarterback prospects have been released, highlighting the talent pool that will be available for selection. The revised rankings are as follows:

1. Caleb Williams
2. Drake Maye
3. Michael Penix Jr.
4. Jayden Daniels
5. J.J. McCarthy
6. Michael Pratt
7. Cam Ward
8. Bo Nix
9. Joe Milton
10. Spencer Rattler

Cam Ward’s decision to declare for the NFL Draft comes after careful consideration, marking a pivotal moment in his football journey. Notably, there were no specific monetary demands made by Ward or his father, Calvin Ward, throughout the portal recruitment process. Ward’s choice was not influenced by challenges in reaching a Name, Image, Likeness (NIL) agreement.

While the initial focus was on a potential move to Miami or the NFL, recent developments indicate late efforts by schools like Auburn to sway Ward’s decision. The Miami Hurricanes, faced with the prospect of Ward exploring alternative options, are now navigating the evolving landscape of their quarterback considerations.

The 2024 NFL Draft promises to be an exciting event, with Cam Ward’s entry adding a layer of intrigue to the quarterback prospects. As the draft season unfolds, the football world will closely monitor the trajectory of these talented athletes, each poised to make a significant impact at the professional level.

1. Caleb Williams (USC): Topping the list is USC’s standout quarterback, Caleb Williams. Widely regarded as one of the most promising talents, Williams has showcased his skills on the collegiate stage, making him a frontrunner for the upcoming draft.
2. Drake Maye (UNC): Following closely is UNC’s Drake Maye, positioned as the second-ranked quarterback. Maye’s performances have garnered attention, positioning him as a compelling prospect in the eyes of NFL scouts.
3. Jayden Daniels (LSU): LSU’s Jayden Daniels secures the third spot in CBS’s rankings. Known for his versatility and accomplishments on the field, Daniels is expected to draw considerable interest from NFL teams.
4. JJ McCarthy (Michigan): Michigan’s JJ McCarthy claims the fourth spot on the list. McCarthy’s contributions to the Wolverines’ success have positioned him as a notable contender in the upcoming draft.
5. Shedeur Sanders (Colorado): Hailing from Colorado, Shedeur Sanders secures the fifth position in the rankings. The son of famed coach Deion Sanders, Shedeur brings his own set of skills and potential to the quarterback landscape.
6. Quinn Ewers (Texas): Texas quarterback Quinn Ewers lands at the sixth spot in the rankings. Ewers’ performance and adaptability on the field have positioned him as a quarterback to watch in the draft.
7. Bo Nix (Oregon): Oregon’s Bo Nix claims the seventh spot on the list. Nix’s journey in college football has been marked by notable achievements, making him a compelling prospect for NFL teams.
8. Michael Penix Jr (Washington): Washington’s Michael Penix Jr. rounds off the top eight in CBS’s quarterback rankings. With his skill set and collegiate experience, Penix Jr. adds depth to the pool of promising quarterbacks.

As the 2024 NFL Draft approaches, these rankings provide a preliminary insight into the potential stars set to make an impact at the professional level. Scouts, analysts, and fans will closely monitor the performances of these quarterbacks as they embark on the next chapter of their football careers.

During a recent interview, Jay Glazer, when asked about Daniels’ draft prospects, stopped short of declaring him a Top 10 pick – at least, not just yet. Despite this cautious stance, Glazer did acknowledge Daniels’ standout qualities, particularly his impressive arm strength, especially when throwing on the move.

One of Daniels’ notable strengths lies in his ability to generate remarkable velocity, even when throwing across his body off-platform. His precision allows him to consistently deliver on-target passes, showcasing his versatility on the field.

Daniels is known for his nuanced throwing style, employing a delicate touch for short and intermediate passes while displaying the capability to launch deep throws with pinpoint accuracy. This multifaceted approach has contributed to his success at LSU, earning him several prestigious awards and accolades.

The list of Jayden Daniels’ achievements includes being a Consensus All-American, garnering recognition from AP, Sporting News, AFCA, and FWAA as a First Team All-American. Additionally, he clinched coveted titles such as the Johnny Unitas Golden Arm, Davey O’Brien Award, Walter Camp Player of the Year, and AP Player of the Year. Perhaps most notably, Daniels secured the Heisman Trophy, solidifying his status as one of college football’s brightest stars.

Reflecting on his college career, Daniels amassed impressive statistics that underscore his impact on the field. Boasting a completion rate of 66.3%, he racked up 12,749 passing yards, threw 89 touchdown passes, and recorded 20 interceptions. His passer rating stands at an impressive 158.4. Not confined to his throwing prowess, Daniels showcased his dual-threat capabilities with 3,307 rushing yards and 34 rushing touchdowns.

As Jayden Daniels transitions from LSU to the NFL, football enthusiasts eagerly await his next chapter and anticipate how his remarkable collegiate achievements will translate to the professional stage.

Small mural of Jayden Daniels across the street from Cajon High School. It was painted after he won the Heisman. pic.twitter.com/ShULpSAP8X

— Rudy Curiel (@rudycuriel1) December 18, 2023