GLENDALE – Quarterback expectations in the NFC West have never been more uncertain. Following one of the busiest offseasons in the division’s recent memory, each team enters 2025 relying on a new-look roster — and big performances from the guys under center.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!From a comeback veteran to a newly paid face of the franchise, here’s a look at which NFC West quarterbacks have the most to prove heading into 2025:
NFC West quarterbacks with most to prove in 2025:
4. Matthew Stafford
Jun 3, 2025; Woodland Hills, CA, USA; Los Angeles Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford (9) throws the ball during organized team activities at Rams Practice Facility. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
Stafford rallied the Rams from a 1–4 start last season to a division title and came within a game of knocking off the eventual Super Bowl champs. Now 37, Stafford enters what could be the final chapter of his career, and he’ll have to do it without longtime favorite Cooper Kupp. Los Angeles signed former All-Pro Davante Adams, but whether that chemistry returns remains to be seen.
A third division crown in five years would help lock in his legacy and make his future Hall of Fame case even stronger.
3. Sam Darnold
Jun 11, 2025; Renton, WA, USA; Seattle Seahawks quarterback Sam Darnold (14) passes the ball during mini-camp at Virginia Mason Athletic Center. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Brashear-Imagn Images
After bouncing from backup roles to a breakout season in Minnesota, Darnold is officially back. His 2024 season had some impressive numbers, with 4,319 passing yards, 35 touchdowns. That helped him secure a deal in Seattle. But with the Seahawks trading away DK Metcalf and losing Tyler Lockett, he’ll have to replicate last year’s magic with a new No. 1: Cooper Kupp.
Proving last season wasn’t a fluke will be key to keeping Seattle competitive.
2. Kyler Murray
Dec 28, 2024; Inglewood, California, USA; Arizona Cardinals quarterback Kyler Murray (1) warms up prior to the game against the Los Angeles Rams at SoFi Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
Murray is now the longest-tenured QB in the division, yet still without a playoff win or division crown. He’s battled injuries and changes in leadership, but 2025 could be his best shot with an upgraded defense and weapons like Marvin Harrison Jr. and Trey McBride. If Arizona gets off to a strong start, Murray could finally break through.
1. Brock Purdy
Jan 5, 2025; Glendale, Arizona, USA; San Francisco 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy (13) looks on after losing to the Arizona Cardinals at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Kartozian-Imagn Images
Purdy’s $265 million extension puts pressure on him to deliver. Despite 3,864 passing yards and 20 touchdowns last season, the 49ers posted their worst record since 2018. After losing 17 players in free agency and watching the defense crumble, Purdy must lead a rebound — or risk the spotlight turning critical.
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Reporter Tanner Tortorella covers general assignment for Burn City Sports. You can follow him on his X account, @TannerTSports
