NFL.com Draft Expert Ranks Top 5 QBs and Cam Ward Isn’t His No. 1

The highly anticipated 2025 NFL Draft starts Thursday, April 24, 8.p.(m. ET, ESPN/ABC) in Green Bay with the Tennessee Titans on the clock holding the No. 1 pick. It’s huge a decision for the franchise. Former NFL player Bucky Brooks, the Draft analyst for NFL.com, has a different quarterback at the top five of rankings at quarterback: the polarizing Shedeur Sanders. But at this point, Cam Ward seems like a lock to go number one. At running back, the shifty Ashton Jeanty will be the first running back off the board. Now, let’s look at the rest of Bucky’s rankings for the top 5 QBs and top 5 RBs.

Quarterbacks

NFL franchises keep drafting quarterbacks early in the first round because of course they do. It’s the most important position in sports. Everyone is looking for the next Josh Allen, Lamar Jackson (picked 32nd! overall), Patrick Mahomes, or (yeah, fat chance) Tom Brady. Here ae the top-five rated signal callers heading into Thursday’s Draft.

1. Shedeur Sanders, Colorado, Senior

Made Papa Prime Deion Sanders proud with an outstanding season with the Buffaloes. He’s precise with his throws and has special genes. However, he’s prone to holding on to the ball too long. That will get you sacked plenty in any NFL game. But his upside is so high. He’s athletic and comes with great football genes. He’s the most boom-or-bust prospect in the 2025 NFL Draft.

2. Cam Ward, Miami, Senior

He’s the one. As in No. 1 overall pick. Too much talent and upside. The Titans get their franchise quarterback. Cam Ward, the Miami quarterback, is often compared to Sam Darnold and Ben Roethlisberger due to his arm talent, mobility, and off-script playmaking abilities. Some analysts even draw parallels to Patrick Mahomes, highlighting his unconventional throwing style and ability to put power on the ball. 

3. Jaxson Dart, Mississippi State, Senior

Dart has a cannon of an arm and this day and age of the NFL, you’d better. He’s also athletic enough to escape trouble as seen in the photo above. He could be one of those backups who blooms into a stud starter.

4. Jalen Milroe, Alabama, Junior

Milroe, a dual-threat quarterback, is compared to another former Alabama QB: Jalen Hurts, who led the Eagles to a NFL championship in February. Milroe needs to work on his accuracy and have patience in the pocket. If everything breaks down, just run it. There are mock drafts projecting Milroe will be drafted by the Giants at No. 3 overall. There’s no way in the world that’s happening. Not after the Daniel Jones disaster.

5. Kyle McCord, Syracuse, Senior

Kyle McCord is being compared to Kirk Cousins and Mac Jones due to his accuracy and game-managing abilities, but that’s likely his ceiling. He’s considered a quick-decision maker who can effectively operate a West Coast offense. Some scouts suggest he might be best suited as a QB2.

Running Backs

There are some good running backs in this 2025 NFL Draft class, but there’s one great one who will be a future star and NFL All-Pro (see below).

5. Cam Skattebo, Arizona State, Senior

Arizona State’s Peach Bowl Offensive MVP, is a physical, downhill runner known for his punishing style and exceptional balance. In 2024, he rushed for over 1,700 yards with 22 total touchdowns, earning first-team All-Big 12 honors. Though lacking top-end speed, he excels at yards after contact and third-down scenarios, offering value as both a runner and reliable receiver. Skattebo’s vision, toughness, and receiving skills make him a versatile NFL prospect projected as a solid Day 2 pick and potential rookie starter.

4. Quinshon Judkins, Ohio State, Junior

Quinshon Judkins, a 6-foot, 221-pound back from Ohio State, boasts elite burst and power, excelling with decisive runs and strong contact balance. He won a national championship in 2024 and showed reliable ball security with limited fumbles. Judkins projects as a two-down, early-down workhorse with potential as a third-down catcher if developed. His physicality and quick acceleration make him a tough runner and a valuable fantasy asset with the right NFL fit, likely going mid-second round or higher in the 2025 Draft.

3. TreVeyon Henderson, Ohio State, Senior

TreVeyon Henderson, from Ohio State, is known for his explosive speed and agility, with a 4.43-second 40-yard dash. He excels in outside zone runs and is an excellent pass protector. Despite being injury-prone in previous seasons, he remains a top prospect due to his big-play ability. Henderson is generally projected as a mid-to-late second-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. Some scouts believe he could potentially push into the end of the first round based on his talent, but a more likely scenario is him being taken in the second round. He is considered a high-upside prospect with a strong rushing and receiving game, and many teams are reportedly interested in his services.

2. Omarion Hampton, North Carolina, Junior

Omarion Hampton is a powerful, 6-foot, 221-pound running back known for his rare blend of size, speed, and durability, rushing for 3,160 yards over his last two college seasons. He excels between the tackles with strong contact balance and quick feet, making him a top-2 RB prospect for 2025. Hampton’s ability to pass protect at an elite level enhances his every-down potential, while his receiving skills show promise despite limited route sophistication. Concerns exist around his heavy workload and contact style, which may affect longevity. Expected to be a valuable starting RB, Hampton fits well in gap-run schemes and could be a top-15 draft pick depending on landing spot. Fantasy-wise, he projects as a reliable RB2 or No. 3 in drafts, with comparisons to DeShaun Foster and Joe Mixon.

1. Ashton Jeanty, Boise State, Junior

Ashton Jeanty stands out as one of the most polished running backs in the 2025 NFL Draft. He won the Maxwell and Doak Walker Awards and was a Heisman Trophy runner-up, showcasing exceptional contact balance, power, and speed. Expected to be a top-five pick, Jeanty is projected to dominate the league and make a significant impact on the league. Jeanty is frequently compared to several NFL running backs, including Alvin Kamara and Christian McCaffrey, due to his versatility and explosive playmaking ability. He’s also been likened to other prominent running backs like Steven Jackson and Maurice Jones-Drew, highlighting his combination of power and agility. Some analysts even draw comparisons to LaDanian Tomlinson and Barry Sanders, suggesting a blend of skill and talent. I’m telling ya right here this kid is going to be a superstar and All-Pro and could become the next Barry Sanders. Guys and gals, he’s that good.