The 2025 NFL Draft has a new quarterback that can be added to the board.
Syracuse quarterback Kyle McCord announced on Friday that he will declare for this year’s NFL draft after a strong season with the Orange.
McCord’s decision comes after speculation of him pursuing an NCAA eligibility waiver, which would have granted him another season of college football.
His move effectively ends his college football career, which McCord called a “crazy ride,” going 22-4 during his time at Syracuse and Ohio State.
McCord led the FBS this season with 4,779 passing yards, leading Syracuse to a 10-win season, the school’s first since 2018.
“I think the biggest thing for me was, obviously, I felt like I put together a really good year,” McCord said to ESPN. “With the way everything played itself out and what I’m hearing in terms of feedback at the draft, it just makes sense to go, after weighing all the options out.”
McCord, 22, finished fourth in the nation with 34 touchdown passes, leading Syracuse to a victory over Washington State in the Holiday Bowl.
“The biggest thing is how thankful I am for Syracuse for bringing me in,” McCord told ESPN. “I’m thankful to the coaches, my teammates and the fans.”
McCord joins a quarterback draft class that will include Jalen Milroe from Alabama, Cam Ward from Miami and Shedeur Sanders of Colorado.
McCord’s decision came just hours after Georgia QB Carson Beck reversed his NFL draft declaration, opting to transfer to Miami and effectively replace Ward.
Texas QB Quinn Ewers also hinted on Friday that he expects to enter the draft once his season concludes.
The 2025 NFL Draft is set to take place at Lambeau Field in Green Bay, Wisconsin from April 24-26.
