The NFL quarterback position is the most critical role in football, often determining the success or failure of a team. As we head into the 2024 NFL season, the landscape of elite quarterbacks continues to evolve. This year’s list of top quarterbacks includes a mix of seasoned veterans, rising stars, and record-breaking rookies. Let’s dive into the top 10 quarterbacks of 2024 and explore what makes each of them stand out.
1. Patrick Mahomes, Kansas City Chiefs
Highest ranking: 1 | Lowest ranking: 2
Age: 28 | Last year’s ranking: 1
Patrick Mahomes’ greatness is undisputed, with his place among NFL legends all but etched in stone. Out of all the voters, only one didn’t consider him the best quarterback in the league. Mahomes has joined Tom Brady and Joe Montana as one of three players in NFL history to achieve three Super Bowl wins and two MVPs, accomplishing this in just seven years, including a season spent behind Alex Smith. His 219 touchdown passes and 28,424 passing yards are the second most in NFL history for a player’s first seven years.
An NFC executive highlighted Mahomes’ clutch performances: “When it’s late in a meaningful game and Mahomes is playing, you just know he’s going to find a way to win. The game’s slowed down for him in that way.”
Mahomes’ ability to adjust is unparalleled. Despite losing Tyreek Hill in 2022, he threw 31 touchdown passes to running backs and tight ends, a Super Bowl-era record. Last year, after a tough loss to the Raiders, Mahomes rallied his offense, improving his regular season QBR from 63.1 to 86.6 in the playoffs. Despite a career-worst 14 interceptions, he threw only one interception against six touchdown passes in the postseason. His creativity and mobility continue to set him apart, with a sack rate of just 14% when pressured, the second lowest in the league.
2. Joe Burrow, Cincinnati Bengals
Highest ranking: 2 | Lowest ranking: 7
Age: 27 | Last year’s ranking: 2
Joe Burrow remains a top-tier quarterback despite injury concerns. A calf strain and a wrist injury last season affected his performance, leading to a QBR of 51.8, significantly lower than the previous two seasons. An AFC scout noted, “High level in all areas, can’t stay healthy.” However, Burrow’s talent is undeniable, with the highest career completion percentage (68%) in NFL history through a player’s first four seasons.
Burrow and Ja’Marr Chase are becoming one of the all-time great pass-catching duos. Burrow’s consistency and command of the offense are his trademarks, as highlighted by an NFL executive: “Burrow is still probably the most consistent of all the guys. A pure thrower who’s in complete command of the offense and comes up big in big moments.”
3. Josh Allen, Buffalo Bills
Highest ranking: 1 | Lowest ranking: 6
Age: 27 | Last year’s ranking: 3
Josh Allen’s blend of brilliance and inconsistency has left voters divided. While he received the only first-place vote that didn’t go to Mahomes, some voters ranked him outside the top five. Allen’s 173 total touchdowns since 2020 are the league’s highest, and he’s the only quarterback in NFL history with five consecutive seasons of at least 20 passing touchdowns and five rushing touchdowns.
An AFC executive stated, “He leaves you wanting more a little bit. But if you’re picking who you want to have to lead your team, he’s going to be second or third for most people.” However, Allen’s turnovers (78 interceptions, 59 fumbles since 2018) remain a concern, as noted by a veteran NFL executive: “Immense talent but he makes a lot of mistakes.”
4. Lamar Jackson, Baltimore Ravens
Highest ranking: 2 | Lowest ranking: 5
Age: 27 | Last year’s ranking: 7
Lamar Jackson has finally earned recognition as a top-tier passer, nearly snagging the No. 2 spot. The Ravens’ new offensive coordinator, Todd Monken, has helped Jackson maximize his game from the pocket, resulting in career highs in attempts, completion percentage, and yards per attempt.
An NFC executive noted, “There wasn’t any doubt who the best player in the league was last year. So, it’s long been time to put that to rest.” Jackson’s QBR increased from 59.1 to 64.7, and he has become more efficient as a pocket passer.
5. Matthew Stafford, Los Angeles Rams
Highest ranking: 3 | Lowest ranking: 10
Age: 36 | Last year’s ranking: 10
Matthew Stafford’s ability to elevate those around him is well recognized. An NFL team official stated, “He elevates the play of those around him. Puka Nacua is a good player — but he’s not the same guy without Stafford.” Stafford’s elite status is evident from his impact on the Rams’ success, leading them to a Super Bowl win in 2021.
Despite durability concerns, Stafford’s arm strength and accuracy remain top-notch. An NFC executive said, “The arm strength hasn’t left him — he can still make every throw to every part of the field.” As Stafford continues to play alongside Sean McVay, his legacy grows.
6. Justin Herbert, Los Angeles Chargers
Highest ranking: 3 | Lowest ranking: Out of top 10
Age: 26 | Last year’s ranking: 5
Justin Herbert’s talent is undeniable, though his 30-32 career record as a starter raises questions. An AFC personnel evaluator described him as “Big, strong, fast, powerful arm. Will stare down some targets and try to make some hero-type plays at times.” Herbert has more passing yards and completions through four seasons than any player in NFL history.
This year, Herbert faces new challenges without key receivers Keenan Allen and Mike Williams. An NFL personnel director noted, “I think [head coach Jim] Harbaugh might finally unlock him, with more emphasis on the run to support him.”
7. C.J. Stroud, Houston Texans
Highest ranking: 2 | Lowest ranking: Out of top 10
Age: 22 | Last year’s ranking: N/A
C.J. Stroud impressed many in his rookie season, leading the NFL in QBR against zone coverages and passing yards per game. A veteran NFC scout said, “He’s as good as anybody, honestly. He’s got to do it again, but the arm talent combined with taking care of the ball and the ability to process was impressive.”
Stroud’s poise and ability to deliver from the pocket have set a new standard for rookie quarterbacks. An NFC executive praised him: “He stands tall. Doesn’t see colors coming at him.”
8. Aaron Rodgers, New York Jets
Highest ranking: 3 | Lowest ranking: Out of Top 10
Age: 40 | Last year’s ranking: 4
Despite his age and injuries, Aaron Rodgers remains a top quarterback. An AFC exec said, “He’s probably fringe top 10 at this point, but he still has the rare ability to throw the football.” Rodgers’ move to the Jets offers a major opportunity to demonstrate his skills.
Rodgers’ ability to protect the football is a significant asset, with the lowest interception rate (1.4%) in NFL history. A quarterback coach noted, “He has the ultimate ‘hang it in the Louvre’ throwing motion.”
9. Jared Goff, Detroit Lions
Highest ranking: 5 | Lowest ranking: Out of top 10
Age: 29 | Last year’s ranking: Honorable mention
Jared Goff’s resurgence with the Lions is one of the league’s best success stories. Since 2022, he ranks second in passing yards and touchdown-to-interception ratio. An NFL coordinator said, “He’s the best in the NFL at throwing into zone coverage windows.”
Goff’s improved toughness in the pocket has been a key factor in his success. An NFC executive noted, “He used to seem nervous in the pocket, but now he’s cool in there.”
10. Dak Prescott, Dallas Cowboys
Highest ranking: 7 | Lowest ranking: Out of top 10
Age: 30 | Last year’s ranking: 9
Dak Prescott consistently performs well, though he has yet to reach the top tier. An NFC executive said, “He always does well enough to be in the top 10 but never gets over the hump.” Despite leading the NFL in touchdown passes last season, Prescott faces the challenge of lifting an offense that has lost key players.
An NFL personnel director added, “He’s really good but not quite good enough to elevate the entire team in those matchups.”
Conclusion
These rankings provide a comprehensive look at the top quarterbacks in the NFL for 2024. Each player brings unique strengths and challenges, contributing to the dynamic and competitive nature of the league. Whether it’s the consistency of Joe Burrow, the brilliance of Josh Allen, or the emerging talent of C.J. Stroud, these quarterbacks are set to make significant impacts this season. As we watch their journeys unfold, one thing is certain: the competition for the top spot will be fierce, and the performances will be nothing short of spectacular.