Quarterback Pressures Ahead of the 2025 NFL Season

The quarterback position is arguably the most demanding in football. They are often considered the face of the franchise, a key factor in determining success or failure. This association can lead to quick changes in coaching staff, as new management typically wants to bring in their preferred players rather than address existing issues.

As we look ahead to the 2025 season, many teams are wrestling with uncertain quarterback scenarios. Some players find themselves fighting to prove their worth to keep their careers alive. It’s worth noting this is more of a general overview, with everyone under similar amounts of pressure.

Take Sam Darnold, for example. His standout 2024 season with the Vikings raises questions about whether it was a one-time performance. The Seahawks recently signed him to a substantial contract and traded Geno Smith, essentially designating Darnold as the starter. Yet, this doesn’t mean he won’t face pressure this year.

Now, let’s talk about Jalen Milroe. The third-round pick from Alabama should be considered more seriously in the 2025 NFL Draft. His dual-threat ability adds a dimension to the offense that Darnold may lack. Although he’s currently third on the depth chart, Milroe is arguably the most exciting option and could see action if Darnold struggles around week ten.

Darnold has secured his financial future, but this season will test whether he can accept a backup role if needed, much like Baker Mayfield did.

On the other hand, Michael Penix Jr. enters the season under intense scrutiny. The Falcons have brought in Kirk Cousins as a backup to send a strong signal that Penix needs to perform or may find himself replaced. His performances in 2024 were inconsistent, leaving many unsure of his potential as a quarterback. His completion percentage of 58.1% wouldn’t cut it today, as the baseline has shifted to around 60% for effective QBs.

There’s a silver lining, though: Penix did average 10.1 yards per throw last season while not holding onto the ball long. The Falcons certainly need that kind of big-play potential. Still, if Penix doesn’t deliver, it wouldn’t be surprising for Atlanta to look for new talent in the deep 2026 quarterback draft.

Trevor Lawrence needs time to develop, but the current situation presents some danger. It’s not about being replaced, but there’s always a risk of the Jaguars starting to evaluate other options. Lawrence showed great promise in his first two years but seemed to lose his way in 2024.

Lawrence has faced a lot of challenges during his time with the Jaguars, from poor coaching to limited receiving options. However, Brian Thomas Jr. has emerged as a promising player, and the front office is now focused on strengthening the offense.

The pressure on Lawrence is unique compared to others; he needs to prove he can be a reliable NFL starter. The upcoming season will be crucial in determining whether he can fulfill the enormous expectations set for him.

Meanwhile, in Arizona, Kyler Murray is entering his seventh year. Things have been steady, but nothing spectacular. After his initial impressive seasons, he hasn’t seemed special, leaving the Cardinals stuck in a cycle of mediocrity.

Murray hasn’t made the leap many expected, despite having good weapons and an improving offensive line. It seems the onus is on him to improve his decision-making. Last season’s 21 touchdown to 11 interception ratio just doesn’t hold up with the talent around him.

If this season doesn’t see a significant turnaround, the Cardinals might start searching for new franchise quarterbacks. It’s not that Murray is ineffective; rather, he might not fit into what the team needs.

Then there’s Tua Tagovailoa, who is often seen as the ideal quarterback for Mike McDaniel—at least when he’s healthy. But the uncertainty surrounding his ability to stay injury-free causes stress for the Dolphins. If Tagovailoa has another disappointing season, questions will linger about how long he can remain the team’s starter.

Even if he performs well, there’s always that looming injury risk. Such concerns may lead Miami to explore quarterback options in the 2026 draft.

Finally, playing quarterback for the Dallas Cowboys is a heavy burden. The expectations are sky-high, and last year was tough for Dak Prescott. Before his injury, he threw eight interceptions in just eight games, resulting in a disappointing 3-5 record.

With hopes high for 2024, it remains uncertain heading into 2025—especially if star defensive player Mika Parsons isn’t with the team. Prescott faces increased pressure as the team’s defense struggles, which complicates matters greatly.

Dallas might be on the brink of a complete overhaul, and a lackluster season from Prescott could expedite that process.