Kyle McCord is hoping to turn a prolific 2024 season at Syracuse into a meaningful NFL career, potentially parlaying it into a starting quarterback job. First, the 22-year-old will have to hear his name called at the 2025 NFL Draft in Green Bay.
Best Potential Landing Spots for Kyle McCord
After reading the tea leaves, McCord believed that a change of scenery could do him a world of good. Leaving the security of the high-octane Ohio State offense, he made the surprising decision to transfer to Syracuse University.
To the shock of many outside of upstate New York, the gamble paid off. In 13 games under head coach Fran Brown, McCord led all of FBS in completions (391), attempts (592), and passing yards (4,779). He also threw for 34 touchdowns against only 12 interceptions.
From the jump, McCord displays a confident presence in the pocket and isn’t afraid to challenge defenses vertically. He possesses a strong, accurate arm and has no hesitation targeting a defense’s top cover corner. He’s fearless in the face of pressure—standing tall in the pocket and delivering throws even when he knows a hit is coming.
However, that same aggression can lead to turnovers, leading some scouts to question his “gunslinger mentality.” And while McCord is athletic enough to maneuver within the pocket, he’s not a threat to escape it and pick up yards with his legs.
Developmental QB for Las Vegas Raiders?
The Raiders addressed an immediate need at quarterback by trading for Geno Smith. After reviving his career in Seattle, Smith now heads to Las Vegas to reunite with former head coach Pete Carroll and, hopefully, bring stability to a franchise starved for quarterback success. Jason Campbell being the last to show promise more than a decade ago.
Smith ranked 15th in PFSN’s QB+ rankings, a metric that factors in performance under pressure. However, he turns 35 in October, and the Raiders must think about the future.
That’s where McCord comes in. Given time to sit and learn, he could develop behind a seasoned veteran. By the time he takes over, young weapons like rookie running back Ashton Jeanty — picked sixth overall on April 24 — and tight end Brock Bowers will be entering their prime, giving him a solid offensive core.
Pittsburgh Steelers Looking for QB Help
Pittsburgh appears committed to extending Aaron Rodgers’ legendary career, if recent reports from Pro Football Talk ring true. But even then, how long will Mike Tomlin hand him the reins? Eventually, the Steelers will need to transition to a younger quarterback, especially with a youthful offense already in place.
With DK Metcalf and George Pickens on the outside and Pat Freiermuth at tight end, the Steelers have the pieces for an explosive attack. McCord could be the key to accelerating their timeline, potentially restoring Pittsburgh as a true conference contender rather than just a playoff participant.
Matthew Stafford’s Successor in Los Angeles
Matthew Stafford turns 38 next February, and while the retirement clock isn’t ringing yet, the buzz is growing louder. After delivering a Super Bowl title to Los Angeles, Stafford is likely evaluating whether one more deep run is realistic. Few quarterbacks have absorbed as much punishment over their careers as he has.
Meanwhile, his go-to target, Cooper Kupp, has returned home to Washington to play for the Seahawks. McCord, like in Pittsburgh, would benefit from developing under the mentorship of a future Hall of Famer. Playing in the Rams’ fast-paced, dome-like stadium would also complement McCord’s skill set.
The Rams are known for wanting to control the clock but are never afraid to get into a shootout. McCord could thrive in such an environment, giving the franchise a smooth transition into its next offensive era.