2025 NFL Combine Preview: 8 Quarterbacks the Lions Should Scout
While the Detroit Lions may not have an immediate need for a quarterback, their scouting efforts at the 2025 NFL Combine will still be crucial. With Jared Goff locked in through 2028 and Hendon Hooker as his backup, Detroit isn’t in the market for a starting quarterback. However, given the nature of the NFL, it’s always prudent to evaluate up-and-coming talent that could be future competition or potential trade targets.
What to Watch
As the Combine kicks off, the Lions will be looking for key traits in quarterbacks: footwork, balance, ball placement, leadership, and the ability to handle pressure. While raw statistics like completions are important, a quarterback’s mechanics and on-field presence will provide much more insight into their future success. It’s also important to note how players interact with others, especially under pressure.
Top Prospects to Watch
Cam Ward (Miami, 6’1½”, 223 lbs)
Ward is known for his unorthodox throwing motion and ability to extend plays with his legs. His pocket presence and ability to keep his eyes downfield make him intriguing, but his lower arm release could raise concerns with some teams. Still, with further development, he could grow into a solid starter.
Shedeur Sanders (Colorado, 6’2″, 215 lbs)
A quarterback who thrives on anticipation and accuracy, Sanders doesn’t have any standout elite traits but excels at reading defenses and delivering precise throws. His Combine performance will be crucial to proving his potential, as a solid showing could elevate his draft stock significantly.
High-Upside Gambles
Jaxson Dart (Mississippi, 6’2″, 226 lbs)
Dart is still refining his game but has strong potential to develop into a starter with the right coaching. His short throws should impress at the Combine, but questions about his arm strength remain.
Jalen Milroe (Alabama, 6’1½”, 220 lbs)
Milroe is an electric playmaker with the ball in his hands but lacks consistency with his accuracy. He’s a high-upside pick, but teams need to consider whether they’re willing to invest in a developmental project.
Tyler Shough (Louisville, 6’5″, 224 lbs)
Shough has the traits to be a starting QB but is facing a medical evaluation at the Combine after battling injuries. At 25, he’s older than most prospects, but his potential makes him an intriguing option for a team with the resources to develop him.
Will Howard (Ohio State, 6’5″, 242 lbs)
Howard impressed with his arm strength during Ohio State’s title run, but questions about his ability to read defenses quickly may affect his draft stock. A strong Combine could prove his worth.
Quinn Ewers (Texas, 6’2″, 195 lbs)
Ewers can be dynamic when on his game, but his consistency has been a concern. If he can show growth in his ability to assess defenses and make smarter decisions, his draft prospects could improve.
Kyle McCord (Syracuse, 6’2½”, 224 lbs)
McCord faced heavy scrutiny at Ohio State but showed growth this past season. His quick release and accuracy make him a solid prospect for teams looking for a developmental project.
While the Lions aren’t looking to draft a quarterback right now, these prospects could be future opponents. As they continue to build for the long term, keeping an eye on these quarterbacks ensures they’re prepared for whatever the NFL landscape brings.
2025 NFL Combine: 8 Quarterbacks Who Could Fit the Lions’ Future
