LIVE REPORT: 2025 Freshman Quarterbacks Who Could Start in Year One
Landing a top-tier quarterback prospect is always a thrill, but history tells us that very few step in as Day 1 starters for their college teams. More often than not, these elite recruits spend their first year learning from the sidelines, sometimes even redshirting despite securing a backup role.
However, there are always exceptions.
In 2024, Dylan Raiola (Nebraska), CJ Bailey (NC State), and Michael Van Buren (Mississippi State) proved that true freshmen can indeed take the reins. Could we see a similar trend in 2025? While no quarterback is a “lock” to start just yet, at least eight blue-chip prospects have a real shot at earning QB1 status this fall.
Let’s dive into the contenders.
Keelon Russell – Alabama
With Jalen Milroe off to the NFL, there’s a golden opportunity for Keelon Russell to make an instant impact in Tuscaloosa.
As of now, Ty Simpson—a prized 2022 recruit—heads into spring as the early favorite. Austin Mack, who initially committed to Washington before following Kalen DeBoer to Alabama, is also in the mix.
But Russell, the No. 2 prospect in the 2025 class, brings serious credentials. A dynamic dual-threat quarterback, he led his high school to two Texas 6A state titles—no small feat in one of the nation’s toughest football landscapes.
Spring ball will be crucial as Russell fights for his chance.
Jaron-Keawe Sagapolutele – Cal
Cal’s quarterback situation was in complete disarray heading into the offseason.
They initially lost Jaron-Keawe Sagapolutele to Oregon in a late recruiting twist. Then, Fernando Mendoza, the team’s two-year starter, transferred, and Chandler Rogers’ eligibility situation became unclear.
But in a dramatic turn, Sagapolutele entered the portal in early January and ultimately recommitted to the Golden Bears.
Now, he joins a competition featuring CJ Harris, EJ Caminong, and Ohio State transfer Devin Brown—none of whom have significant college experience. That gives Sagapolutele a legitimate shot at claiming the job from Day 1.
Julian Lewis – Colorado
The Buffs’ quarterback battle is set up as a showdown between Kaidon Salter and Julian Lewis.
Colorado brought in Salter, a former Conference USA Player of the Year, with the expectation that he would start. But in an interview, Salter revealed he wasn’t given any promises, which leaves the door open for Lewis.
A former USC commit, Lewis is a poised pocket passer who excels at extending plays rather than creating explosive runs. That contrasts with Salter, a proven playmaker who has already rushed for 2,006 yards in college.
Ultimately, it comes down to what Deion Sanders and his staff envision for the Buffs’ new-look offense in 2025.
Malik Washington – Maryland
While much of the focus will be on Michigan’s quarterback battle, it’s actually Maryland that could have the Big Ten’s most likely freshman starter.
Following the departures of Billy Edwards Jr. (Wisconsin), MJ Morris (Coastal Carolina), and Cameron Edge (Eastern Michigan), the Terps are in desperate need of a QB1.
Enter Malik Washington.
At 6’4”, 215 pounds, the top-100 prospect is an explosive dual-threat talent with the tools to take over immediately. However, his accuracy remains a work in progress, which could open the door for UCLA transfer Justyn Martin, who saw limited action in 2024.
If Washington can sharpen his passing, he’ll be tough to keep off the field.
Antwann Hill – Memphis
Four years ago, Memphis made a bold move by starting Seth Henigan as a true freshman. The result? He shattered the school’s career passing record by more than 3,500 yards and led the Tigers to two 10-win seasons.
Could Antwann Hill be next?
A former 4-star recruit, Hill made his mark in Georgia’s high school scene as a high-volume passer with some running ability.
He’ll have to battle Harris Boyd, Arrington Maiden, and Nevada transfer Brendon Lewis, with Lewis appearing to be the early frontrunner.
But head coach Ryan Silverfield isn’t afraid to trust a freshman—if Hill proves he’s the best option.
Bryce Underwood – Michigan
When you’re the No. 1 overall recruit, expectations are sky-high.
That’s the case for Bryce Underwood, who flipped from LSU to Michigan after the Wolverines’ disastrous 2024 QB situation.
Last season, Michigan struggled, rotating through Davis Warren, Alex Orji, and Jack Tuttle—with no stability in sight. That’s why head coach Sherrone Moore made Underwood his top priority, while also bringing in Fresno State transfer Mikey Keene as a veteran option.
If all goes according to plan, Underwood will be the Wolverines’ starter sooner rather than later.
Tavien St. Clair – Ohio State
The defending national champions are headed into an open quarterback competition.
With Will Howard moving on and both Devin Brown and Air Noland transferring, the Buckeyes’ depth chart is wide open.
Enter Tavien St. Clair, a 5-star early enrollee who has a real opportunity to push for the job this spring.
His development will be key, as Julian Sayin (2024 recruit) and Lincoln Kienholz also remain in the mix. But with none of them boasting more than 22 career passes, there’s a pathway for St. Clair to seize control.
Can he lead Ohio State’s bid for a repeat championship? The battle is just beginning.
Husan Longstreet – USC
Rounding out the list is Husan Longstreet, a former Texas A&M commit who flipped to USC late in the recruiting cycle.
Longstreet’s biggest strength? His cannon of an arm. While he has mobility, his real talent lies in making quick, decisive throws—perfect for Lincoln Riley’s offense.
He’ll have to beat out Jayden Maiava, who transferred from UNLV and stepped up in November, leading USC to a 3-1 finish that included a Las Vegas Bowl win over Texas A&M.
Maiava enters as the leader, but Longstreet has the raw talent to push for the job early.
Final Word
While no freshman quarterback is guaranteed to start in 2025, these eight names have a real shot at breaking through. As spring camps unfold, the battles will take shape, and we’ll see who can earn the trust of their coaches—and take the field as a true freshman starter.
Keep an eye on these rising stars—the next great college QB might just be among them.
