QUARTERBACKS

Lacking a clear first selection will hurt this group in foresight, but the quarterback class this year is one of the deepest — if not talented — produced in a while. A lack of true “first rounders” is made up for by a surprising run of mid-round talents, as names such as Riley Leonard and Jaxson Dart miss this list entirely. With such a backloaded class, finding a possible starter or bench piece in the later rounds will be very feasible for teams looking to lay back and let their quarterback come to them.

Matt Pendleton; USA TODAY Sports

1. Cam Ward, SR

Miami

POSITIVES:

Sudden, snappy release that pops off the screen when watching tape.
Elite arm talent with ability to make any throw on the field.
An able-bodied, confident scrambler that is dangerous when outside of the pocket — off schedule plays are a strength.
Has demonstrated excellent arm strength and an array of releases while on the move.
Processing has shown a massive upgrade from 2023 — can read coverages more adeptly.
Embodiment of composure while on the field.

NEGATIVES:

Has shown worrisome issues with ball security — does put the ball in harms way frequently.
Victim to holding the ball exceedingly long when first read is not open.
Footwork can get messy in the pocket when play breaks down.