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Three Quarterbacks the Eagles Could Target in the 2025 NFL Draft
As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, Iām kicking off a series highlighting prospects the Eagles could consider at each position. While Philadelphia has a strong core, the draft always presents opportunities to add depth and develop future contributors. To start things off, letās take a look at three quarterbacks who might be worth considering in April.
Jalen Hurts is the guy in Philadelphia, no question about it. The Eagles have committed to him long-term, and heās proven himself as one of the best dual-threat quarterbacks in the league. But just because the starting job is locked up doesnāt mean the Eagles wonāt consider adding another quarterback in the 2025 NFL Draft. Whether itās for depth, a developmental project, or even a potential trade asset down the line, itās always smart to have options. Letās take a look at three quarterbacks who could be interesting fits for Philly.
Jalen Milroe, Alabama
If youāre looking for a quarterback in this draft with a play style similar to Jalen Hurts, Jalen Milroe is probably the closest match. The Alabama standout is an explosive athlete with a big arm, and his ability to make plays with his legs is flat-out dangerous. In 2024, under Kalen DeBoerās system, he put up nearly 3,600 yards of total offense and racked up 36 touchdowns. He thrives when plays break down, which fits right in with what the Eagles value at the position.
That said, Milroe isnāt a finished product. His accuracy on short and intermediate throws needs some work, and he sometimes holds onto the ball too long, which could lead to sacks at the next level. His smaller hand size (8 7/8 inches) might also raise concerns about ball security, especially in colder weather. If he slides into the mid-to-late rounds, though, he could be a fun developmental option behind Hurts.
Donovan Smith, Houston
At 6ā5ā and 215 pounds, Donovan Smith has the size and arm strength NFL teams love. After transferring from Texas Tech, he put together a solid season at Houston, throwing for 2,801 yards and 22 touchdowns while completing 64.5% of his passes. He also showed off some mobility, rushing for 241 yards and two touchdowns in his final four games.
Smithās deep ball is a weapon, and heās shown flashes of being able to manipulate defenses and throw with anticipation. The problem? His processing speed isnāt quite where it needs to be yet, and he tends to lock onto his first read. His pocket awareness is another area that needs refining. Sometimes, it feels like he doesnāt sense the pressure until itās too late. If the Eagles are willing to be patient, though, Smith has the tools to develop into an intriguing long-term backup.
Riley Leonard, Notre Dame
Riley Leonard has had quite the journey, from an unheralded recruit to a standout at Duke and eventually Notre Dame. At 6ā4ā and 216 pounds, heās got the size and athleticism teams look for in a modern quarterback. His breakout 2022 season at Duke saw him throw for over 2,900 yards while adding nearly 700 rushing yards, proving heās got legitimate dual-threat ability. In 2024, he set Notre Dameās single-season record for quarterback rushing touchdowns, further showcasing his versatility.
Leonard brings a strong deep ball, quick decision-making, and the ability to extend plays when things break down. Heās a competitor who steps up in big moments and has the leadership traits teams love. The downside? His mechanics can be a little inconsistent, especially under pressure. He also has a tendency to force throws into tight windows instead of taking the safer option. On top of that, his injury history is something teams will have to consider. If the Eagles want an athletic quarterback with upside to develop behind Hurts, Leonard could be worth a late-round flyer, if he makes it that far.
Final Thoughts
The Eagles arenāt looking for a new starting quarterback, but that doesnāt mean they wonāt take a swing on one in the draft. Theyāve always valued depth at the position, and if a talented young passer falls into the right range, they might just take a shot. Whether itās Milroeās exciting athleticism, Smithās big arm, or Leonardās dual-threat potential, there are a few names worth keeping an eye on. As draft season heats up, itāll be interesting to see if Howie Roseman decides to add another quarterback to the mix.
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