The quarterback position is often the focal point of NFL discussions, shaping team fortunes for better or worse. In an imaginative 2025 quarterback mock draft, Josh Allen lands with the Cleveland Browns, rekindling excitement around the franchise’s rebuilding efforts. The mock draft orders teams by need based on their chances to win the 2025 Super Bowl, projecting quarterbacks as if they were freshly drafted under current team conditions.
A Fresh Look at Quarterback Value Across the NFL
The idea behind this mock draft was to pool all 32 projected starting quarterbacks and “draft” them to teams ranked from most in need of a quarterback to those more stable, based on reversed Super Bowl odds ahead of the 2025 season. This exercise aims not only to entertain but also to illuminate which quarterbacks hold the most intrinsic value irrespective of their current franchises. For example, while Baker Mayfield might presently be the steadier signal-caller compared to Caleb Williams, a rebuilding team might prioritize a different skill set or potential ceiling.
Saints Kick Off with Patrick Mahomes
Despite approaching 30 and the sting of a heavy Super Bowl loss, Patrick Mahomes remains the NFL’s benchmark quarterback. With the New Orleans Saints ushering in new leadership under coach Kellen Moore, adding Mahomes could provide immediate elite stability. Playing near his Texas roots and dominating an NFC South division that currently lacks a clear powerhouse would be an ideal setting for Mahomes to reinforce his legacy.
Returning Star Josh Allen Joins the Browns
Josh Allen, once a top prospect for Cleveland in the lead-up to the 2018 NFL Draft, is projected to finally join the Browns in this 2025 scenario. At 29, the dual-threat quarterback has just earned his first NFL MVP award, cementing him as one of the league’s premier playmakers. For head coach Kevin Stefanski, having a proven and physically imposing quarterback as the cornerstone of a rebuild marks a major “what if” moment with high expectations for franchise growth.
Jets Embrace Lamar Jackson’s Electrifying Style
The New York Jets face a tough choice between Joe Burrow and Lamar Jackson, but the mock draft selects Jackson’s dynamic presence. Known for his electrifying plays and exceptional versatility, Jackson represents the kind of exciting talent New York needs to break free from years of quarterback instability. His style is seen as a fresh, high-energy solution following the stagnant Aaron Rodgers era in Jets history.
Joe Burrow Finds a Place with the Giants
The Giants, under coach Brian Daboll, have shown a preference for quarterbacks who can extend plays, favoring mobility and adaptability. Joe Burrow fits this mold as a calm and confident leader, something the Giants have sought for years. His potential partnership with fellow LSU alumnus Malik Nabers offers hope for developing a consistent and competitive offense moving forward.
Titans Look to Jayden Daniels for Long-Term Leadership
Jayden Daniels, fresh from leading the Commanders nearly to a Super Bowl appearance, is projected to become the Tennessee Titans’ franchise face. His athleticism combined with composure in critical moments aligns well with head coach Brian Callahan’s affinity for quarterbacks who excel with crisp timing and accuracy, such as former Titans Peyton Manning and Matthew Stafford.
Carolina Panthers Bet on C.J. Stroud’s Youth and Potential
The Panthers, aiming for stability along with a youthful future, select C.J. Stroud over established starters like Jalen Hurts. Though Stroud’s sophomore season was uneven, his playoff experience and leadership qualities make him an appealing candidate for Carolina’s long-term quarterback plans, especially under owner David Tepper’s direction.
Las Vegas Raiders Acquire Matthew Stafford for Immediate Impact
The Raiders prioritize winning in the near term, a move encouraged by minority owner Tom Brady’s reported interest in Matthew Stafford. At 37, Stafford’s veteran presence and powerful arm could energize the offense led by coach Pete Carroll. Pairing him with younger offensive weapons like Ashton Jeanty and Brock Bowers might accelerate the Raiders’ playoff ambitions despite Stafford’s age limiting his tenure.
Dolphins Opt for Justin Herbert’s Strong Arm
Miami’s offense, focused on timing-based schemes and speedy receivers like Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle, would find a natural fit in Justin Herbert. Though Herbert faces scrutiny regarding his big-game consistency, his physical talent and efficiency could elevate the Dolphins’ passing attack, complementing head coach Mike McDaniel’s style and aspirations.
Jalen Hurts Brings Stability to the Colts
Indianapolis, seeking reliability at quarterback after years of volatility, would select Jalen Hurts. His dual-threat impact and steady execution under coach Shane Steichen make him an attractive centerpiece for the offense. At only 26, Hurts brings a blend of playoff experience and youthful resilience important for the Colts’ future.
Patriots Take a Chance on Rising Star Caleb Williams
The New England Patriots, balancing veteran wisdom and promising potential, would choose Caleb Williams to inject explosive playmaking into their offense. Williams, a recent No. 1 overall pick with off-schedule wizardry, is seen as the kind of talent that could lift the Patriots back into contention alongside enhanced coaching and a fortified front line.
Jacksonville Jaguars Invest in Jordan Love’s Untapped Talent
The Jaguars aim to start fresh under general manager James Gladstone, moving toward a new era by selecting Jordan Love. Though still young with room to grow, Love’s natural arm strength and prior playoff experience provide hope for the Jaguars, particularly with developing pass-catchers like Brian Thomas Jr. and Travis Hunter adding value on offense.
Atlanta Falcons Turn to Jared Goff for Immediate Fit
With the Falcons searching for a quarterback to stabilize their offense, Jared Goff emerges as a practical choice. His familiarity with coordinator Zac Robinson’s play-action schemes and experience playing alongside dynamic talents like Bijan Robinson and Drake London make Goff a logical short-term solution to Atlanta’s quarterback question.
Seattle Seahawks Rely on Brock Purdy’s Continuity
Brock Purdy, recently signed by the San Francisco 49ers but perfectly suited for Seattle under new offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak, is projected to lead the Seahawks. At 25, Purdy offers a combination of maturity and leadership needed for long-term success, supported by reliable pass-catchers such as Jaxon Smith-Njigba and Cooper Kupp.
Dallas Cowboys Maintain the Status Quo with Dak Prescott
Despite its familiarity, Dallas sticks with Dak Prescott, reflecting owner Jerry Jones’ preference for consistency. Promoting Prescott’s offensive coordinator Brian Schottenheimer signals the franchise’s aim to optimize Prescott’s steady arm with explosive talent additions like George Pickens to finally translate strong regular seasons into playoff success.
Arizona Cardinals Look Toward Drake Maye as Future Leader
Arizona’s focus on long-term stability at quarterback leads them to select Drake Maye, particularly as Kyler Murray’s tenure brings mixed results. Maye’s toughness and mobility, paired with a defense moving toward improvement, offer offensive coordinator Drew Petzing a versatile and dynamic signal-caller suited for both downfield throws and play-action schemes.
Chicago Bears Bet on Bo Nix’s Experience
Chicago’s new coach Ben Johnson opts for Bo Nix, who brings a rhythmic passing style and significant college experience. Fresh off a solid rookie season with Denver, Nix’s ability to fit into Johnson’s system—one that showcased Jared Goff’s best traits—could help the Bears capitalize on their supporting cast for a strong push under new leadership.
Pittsburgh Steelers Select Baker Mayfield to Complement Their Current Core
The Steelers, still invested in Aaron Rodgers in real life, project a shift toward Baker Mayfield in this mock draft. Mayfield’s physical playing style meshes with Pittsburgh’s gritty identity, and alongside weapons like DK Metcalf, he could make the Steelers competitive wild-card contenders once again under coach Mike Tomlin’s leadership.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers Commit to Cameron Ward’s Long-Term Upside
Tampa Bay, preferring developmental potential over immediate veteran firepower, select Cameron Ward. Ward’s dynamic, adventurous playing style combined with the steady veteran receiving core featuring Mike Evans and Chris Godwin gives the Buccaneers a high-upside long-term solution in the NFC South.
Los Angeles Chargers Welcome Jim Harbaugh’s Former Michigan Signal-Caller J.J. McCarthy
The Chargers, under Jim Harbaugh’s direction, reunite with J.J. McCarthy, whose calm leadership and distributor skills fit Harbaugh’s ball-control philosophy perfectly. Though less experienced than some alternatives, McCarthy’s familiarity with Harbaugh’s system makes him a developmental quarterback with potential for consistency in Los Angeles.
Denver Broncos Take a Chance on Trevor Lawrence
Though a fall from previous expectations, Trevor Lawrence lands with Denver where new coach Sean Payton might revive the talented but turnover-prone quarterback. Payton’s history of reclaiming struggling stars such as Drew Brees and Jameis Winston suggests Lawrence could find opportunity to mature and lead a talented Broncos offense long term.
Houston Texans Count on Kyler Murray’s Playmaking Ability
With C.J. Stroud gone, the Texans look to Kyler Murray’s elusiveness and ability to create on the fly to reinvigorate their offense. Despite inconsistencies, Murray’s adaptability might thrive under offensive coordinator Nick Caley, who favors timing- and play-action-based schemes suited to Murray’s style.
Green Bay Packers Opt for Sam Darnold to Transition Forward
Though a nostalgic return of Aaron Rodgers was considered, the Packers prefer moving forward with Sam Darnold. At 28, Darnold’s toughness and recent experience with Minnesota add hope for his success in Matt LaFleur’s offensive system, which boasts strong running support led by Josh Jacobs.
Cincinnati Bengals Look to Veteran Geno Smith for Stability
Built to contend now, Cincinnati retains veteran leadership by selecting Geno Smith. His recent performances demonstrate experience and steadiness, attributes valued by head coach Zac Taylor, as the Bengals seek to maximize their roster’s offensive weapons and remain playoff competitive.
Minnesota Vikings Select Michael Penix Jr. for Long-Term Potential
The Vikings favor a forward-thinking approach with Michael Penix Jr., who was nearly a top-10 pick in the 2024 draft. Penix’s strong downfield arm and ability to operate within systems make him a promising candidate to lead a talented roster featuring Justin Jefferson under general manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah’s vision.
San Francisco 49ers Reunite with Aaron Rodgers
In a storyline full of irony, the 49ers take Aaron Rodgers, who was once passed over in the 2005 draft by the team. At 41, Rodgers brings veteran leadership to a team eager to win now, with stars like Christian McCaffrey and George Kittle ready to maximize his elite skill set in the NFC West.
Washington Commanders Place Hope in Justin Fields
Washington entrusts Justin Fields with their quarterback future, valuing his age and rushing ability alongside moderate passing progress. Fields offers the Commanders a potential playoff-caliber signal-caller as they pursue a title under new management and coaching.
Los Angeles Rams Rely on Tua Tagovailoa’s Timing and Precision
The Rams, built to compete immediately, select Tua Tagovailoa despite his medical concerns. His sharp timing fits perfectly with offensive weapons like Davante Adams and Puka Nacua, under coach Sean McVay’s skill for revitalizing veteran quarterbacks and overseeing reclamation projects.
Detroit Lions Hope Bryce Young Will Flourish in a Strong Offensive Setup
The Lions choose Bryce Young for his improved composure and ability to distribute effectively, leveraging solid offensive line protection and elite weapons like Jahmyr Gibbs and Amon-Ra St. Brown. Under coach Dan Campbell’s motivational leadership, Detroit represents a promising environment for Young’s growth.
Kansas City Chiefs Consider Anthony Richardson as a Developmental Gamble
The Chiefs entertain the possibility of developing Anthony Richardson under coach Andy Reid. Despite Richardson’s youth and durability issues, Reid’s history of nurturing quarterbacks could unlock the immense athletic upside in Richardson’s cannon arm, making the gamble worthwhile for the reigning champions.
Philadelphia Eagles Bring Back Russell Wilson for a Final Title Push
Though older and slowing at 36, Russell Wilson is seen as a feasible complement under the Eagles’ forward-thinking regime aiming at a last-chance Super Bowl run. Wilson’s experience with option-based offenses and improved supporting cast may grant Philadelphia a burst of veteran savvy and leadership.
Buffalo Bills Turn to Joe Flacco as a Seasoned Stopgap
Out of reach for Josh Allen, the Bills settle on veteran Joe Flacco to lead a win-now offense. At age 40, Flacco offers familiarity with spacing-based offensive schemes favored by offensive coordinator Joe Brady, providing Buffalo with a strategic but short-term veteran presence.
Baltimore Ravens Take a Risk on Tyler Shough’s Potential
The Ravens select Tyler Shough, the most uncertain quarterback in the group, banking on his size, arm talent, and spread offense background to intrigue coordinator Todd Monken. Despite injury history and rookie status at 26, Baltimore hopes their strong running game led by Derrick Henry will compensate while Shough develops.