The State of College Football Quarterbacks in 2025
Introduction
The landscape of college football quarterbacks in 2025 is both dynamic and challenging. With the transfer portal movement continuing to shape rosters, the quarterback situations across Power Four conferences are evolving rapidly. This analysis delves into the bleakest quarterback situations, the top returning quarterbacks, and the overall state of the position as the 2025 season approaches.
The Bleakest Quarterback Situations
As the 2025 season looms, several programs face significant uncertainty at the quarterback position. These situations are characterized by a lack of experienced players, inconsistent performances, and high turnover due to transfers. Programs like Georgia, with the expected departure of Quinn Ewers to the NFL Draft, and Florida, with DJ Lagway under pressure to deliver, are prime examples. The transfer portal has exacerbated these issues, with key players moving to new teams, leaving voids that are difficult to fill.
Top Returning Quarterbacks
Clemson’s Cade Klubnik leads the pack of top returning quarterbacks for the 2025 season. Klubnik’s leadership and performance have set a high standard for other quarterbacks to aspire to. Other notable returners include Riley Leonard of Duke, who, despite an ankle injury, remains one of the best athletes at the position. His top-five rushing grade among qualified quarterbacks over the past two seasons speaks to his versatility and impact on the field.
Transfer Portal Impact
The transfer portal has become a pivotal factor in shaping quarterback situations across college football. Players like Chandler Morris, who has moved to his fourth school, highlight the fluid nature of the position. The transfer portal has also seen significant movement, with key players like Fernando Mendoza (California) and Pat Coogan (Notre Dame) changing teams. This movement has led to a mix of opportunities and challenges for teams, as they scramble to find stable quarterbacks.
Key Players and Performances
Several quarterbacks have made significant strides in their performances, setting them apart in the 2025 rankings. Mateer, for instance, was one of the most statistically productive dual-threat quarterbacks, capable of both passing and rushing effectively. His ability to throw for 300 or more yards and run for significant yardage in a single game underscores his value. Similarly, Sam Leavitt of ASU has been pivotal in the Sun Devils’ success, even after the departure of star running back Cam Skattebo to the NFL.
Conference-Specific Analysis
Big Ten
The Big Ten conference has seen its share of quarterback battles and transfers. The pre-spring rankings for Big Ten quarterbacks for 2025 reflect a mix of returning stars and new faces. The conference’s focus on developing young talent and integrating transfers has been crucial in maintaining competitiveness.
ACC
In the ACC, Chandler Morris’s journey to his fourth school highlights the conference’s dynamic quarterback situation. The focus for returning starters like Jake Retzlaff of BYU is on finishing stronger and leading their teams to conference championships. The ACC’s quarterback situations are a blend of experience and potential, with several teams looking to stabilize their positions.
SEC
The SEC, known for its high-stakes quarterback battles, continues to be a hotbed of talent and competition. With key players like Quinn Ewers potentially leaving for the NFL, the conference is bracing for significant changes. The SEC’s quarterback rankings reflect a mix of established stars and emerging talents, with teams like Florida under pressure to deliver with DJ Lagway.
Big 12
The Big 12 conference is known for its high-scoring games and dynamic quarterbacks. Sam Leavitt and Josh Hoover lead the class in the Big 12, with both players returning for the 2025 season. The conference’s quarterback situations are characterized by a mix of experience and potential, with several teams looking to build on their success.
Conclusion: The Road Ahead
As the 2025 season approaches, the state of college football quarterbacks is a mix of uncertainty and potential. The transfer portal’s impact, the return of key players, and the emergence of new talents will shape the landscape. Teams like Clemson, with Cade Klubnik leading the way, and others with promising young quarterbacks are poised for success. However, the challenges posed by transfers and injuries will test the resilience and adaptability of these programs. The road ahead is filled with opportunities and challenges, and the teams that navigate these waters effectively will emerge as the leaders in the 2025 season.
