Quarterback Dominance in NFL Draft History: Cam Ward Selected First

Quarterbacks Lead NFL Draft History with 37 First Overall Picks

According to ESPN, quarterbacks have consistently dominated the NFL Draft — with 37 of them selected as first overall picks since the inaugural draft in 1936. This long-standing trend was further reinforced in the 2025 NFL Draft.

Cam Ward Picked First Overall by Tennessee Titans

Cam Ward, standout quarterback from Miami, was chosen first overall by the Tennessee Titans in the 2025 NFL Draft. His selection continues the trend of quarterback-centric strategies that have shaped modern team-building in the NFL.

QB Dominance in the Modern Era: 1998–2024

Between 1998 and 2024, quarterbacks were selected first in 20 of 27 drafts. The defensive end position followed distantly with five selections, while offensive tackles — key players in quarterback protection — were picked first just twice.

Positional Breakdown of First Overall Picks (All-Time)

• Quarterback: 37 players

• Running Back: 20 players

• Defensive End: 13 players

• Offensive Tackle: 4 players

• Wide Receiver: 3 players

• Linebacker: 3 players

• Other Positions: 8 players

The data reflects the league’s emphasis on quarterbacks as cornerstone players, both from a performance and franchise investment standpoint.