Each year, quarterback-needy teams drive up the draft stock of passers, forcing analysts to reassess the upcoming class. While Cam Ward has emerged as the clear top QB this year, several others are poised to climb draft boards—including former Syracuse standout Kyle McCord, whom some evaluators see as the complete package.
After starting his college career at Ohio State, McCord transferred to Syracuse and exploded in his senior season. The New Jersey native led the nation in attempts (592), completions (391), and passing yards (4,779), adding 34 touchdowns and 12 interceptions for a 148.8 passer rating.
His prolific year shattered Donovan McNabb’s long-standing Syracuse records, per FOX Sports’ Jordan Schultz. Yet despite his college dominance and prototypical NFL size (6’3”, 218 lbs), McCord has flown under the radar in the pre-draft process.
Could McCord Be This Year’s Draft Surprise?
He hasn’t gone entirely unnoticed. The New York Jets and Pittsburgh Steelers have shown interest, with both teams eyeing quarterback help in the draft—and McCord could be a prime target, per Schultz.
Yes, the Jets signed Justin Fields to a two-year deal, but with only $30 million guaranteed, his contract won’t stop them from drafting a QB if their new regime believes in the pick. New York has been linked to Jaxson Dart, but McCord is gaining momentum. The issue? Neither passer offers strong value at No. 7 overall, and while the Jets would prefer McCord in the mid-rounds, he may not last that long. Waiting until Round 2 risks missing out on Dart as well.
The Steelers, meanwhile, hold the 21st pick and are better positioned to target Dart, Tyler Shough, or Shedeur Sanders (if he falls). However, without a second-round selection, Pittsburgh may need to trade up from the third round to secure a passer.
McCord is also on their radar—the team met with him recently. While they await Aaron Rodgers’ free agency decision, which could shape their draft strategy, expect the Steelers to take a quarterback at some point, regardless of Rodgers’ choice.
Could McCord be the sleeper who shakes up draft day? Teams in need are certainly taking notice.
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