ESPN Projects Only One Five-Star QB from Class of 2025 to Start Next College Football Season
As college football programs across the country gear up for the 2025 season, the incoming freshman class of quarterbacks is attracting significant attention, particularly the five-star recruits. These quarterbacks are often seen as the future of their respective programs, with expectations high for them to lead their teams to national prominence. However, according to ESPN’s latest projections, only one five-star quarterback from the Class of 2025 is expected to start for their college football team in the upcoming season.
The five-star quarterback class of 2025 is one of the most talented in recent memory, with multiple highly-ranked prospects drawing interest from major programs. Among them are some incredible talents, known for their arm strength, football IQ, and athleticism, who have the potential to step in and make an immediate impact. Yet, despite the high level of talent, only one of these quarterbacks is projected to earn a starting role right out of the gate.
The reason for this projection is the current landscape of college football, which is increasingly dominated by veteran quarterbacks who have been entrenched in their programs for multiple years. Many of the top programs already have experienced quarterbacks returning for the 2025 season, which creates a challenging environment for freshman quarterbacks, even those with five-star pedigrees. These seasoned quarterbacks often provide stability and leadership that is difficult for freshmen to match, making it unlikely for the majority of five-star recruits to start immediately.
Additionally, the evolution of college football’s recruiting landscape has resulted in a more competitive environment for playing time. High-profile quarterbacks often enter programs with more competition than ever before. Schools are bringing in transfers, and the influx of veteran players who already have experience at the college level adds to the challenge for freshmen to see the field right away. This makes it harder for even the most highly regarded high school prospects to displace a returning starter or win over coaching staff in just their first year.
However, the one five-star quarterback who is projected to start is expected to make a big splash in his first season. His combination of elite physical tools, an impressive high school career, and the need for his program to find an immediate leader at the quarterback position have all contributed to his likely starting role. His early opportunity to take the reins is a testament to his preparedness and the potential for instant impact that the highest-level recruits bring to college football.
While many of the five-star quarterbacks from the 2025 class will likely spend time developing behind older players, their time will come. The evolving college football landscape may provide more opportunities in the future, but for now, it appears that only one of them will be ready to lead a program from day one.
