Sometimes the hype fades, the wins slow down, or the whispers get louder: “Is he still that guy?” Every NFL season serves as a reset button, and for some quarterbacks, it’s a chance to remind everyone that they’re still the main character.
This year, a handful of QBs have something to prove—not to the haters, but to themselves, their teams, and anyone who may have changed the channel. Whether it’s bouncing back or living up to expectations, these ten quarterbacks are stepping into 2025 with receipts in hand.
10. Dak Prescott
Dak’s regular-season stats always sparkle, but postseason reality has been less than ideal. If he wants to silence the doubters, it’s time for a January run that goes somewhere.
9. Kyler Murray
The talent is there, but injuries and inconsistency have clouded the Kyler era in Arizona. He must create a healthy, focused season to reclaim his spot among the league’s elite.
8. Russell Wilson
Last season looked better than his time with Denver, but Russ still hasn’t cooked like the old days. With a new era starting in New York, this is a make-or-break moment for his redemption arc.
7. Tua Tagovailoa
Tua’s highs are highlight-reel worthy, but the health concerns never disappear. If he can stay on the field and push Miami deeper into the playoffs, he’ll shut many people up.
6. Justin Fields
This is it—new weapons, new expectations, and probably his last shot to prove he’s the guy in New York. He needs to evolve from highlight runs to consistent wins.
5. Sam Darnold
Somehow, Darnold is looking to continue his redemption arc in Seattle. This could be his last real opportunity to prove he was worth that top-three pick.
4. Trevor Lawrence
![Jacksonville Jaguars quarterback Trevor Lawrence (16) makes a pass during the fourth organized team activity at the Miller Electric Center in Jacksonville, Fla. Tuesday, May 27, 2025. [Doug Engle/Florida Times-Union]](https://thequickreport.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Untitled-design-2025-05-28T080714.523-1024x658.png)
After a promising start to his career, 2024 felt like a step back. He doesn’t need to be perfect, but he does need to show that he’s still on the superstar track.
3. Brock Purdy
He’s efficient, wins, and likable—but skeptics still wonder if it’s the system or the quarterback. Another deep playoff run would go a long way toward putting those questions to bed.
Read More: Big Money, No Wins: The 10 Highest-Paid NFL QBs Without a Playoff Victory
2. Baker Mayfield
He’s played well enough in Tampa, but consistency has never been his thing. If he wants to prove he’s one of the league’s top quarterbacks, he has to prove it on the field.
Read More: 10 Reasons Seattle Seahawks Fans Should Be Excited About Sam Darnold
1. Bryce Young
His first couple of years have been tough, but everyone’s watching to see how he bounces back with actual support. If he doesn’t progress significantly, the noise will only get louder.
Read More: 10 NFL Quarterbacks Who Aren’t as Elite as People Think
