Mike's Hard Takes

Quarterback is the most important position in sports — and right now, the NFL has never been deeper with elite talent.
From proven Super Bowl champions to young stars on the rise, here’s my ranking of the top 15 QBs heading into the 2025 season.

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1. Patrick Mahomes – Kansas City Chiefs

The gold standard. Mahomes has already built a Hall of Fame résumé, and he’s still in his prime. His ability to make plays when it matters most keeps the Chiefs in every game, no matter the supporting cast.

2. Josh Allen – Buffalo Bills

The reigning MVP, Allen is a one-man wrecking crew, capable of dominating through the air or on the ground. His combination of size, arm strength, and mobility makes him a nightmare for defenses.

3. Lamar Jackson – Baltimore Ravens

Lamar is a defensive coordinator’s headache. Jackson has become more comfortable in the pocket under Todd Monken, and his dual-threat ability still tilts the field every Sunday.

4. Joe Burrow – Cincinnati Bengals

Burrow is as calm and precise as anyone in the league. His chemistry with Ja’Marr Chase and ability to shine in big games make him one of the NFL’s most dangerous quarterbacks. I expect him to compete for the MVP this season

5. Jayden Daniels – Washington Commanders

Yes, he’s already in the top five — that’s how quickly Daniels’ stock has risen. His elite speed, poise, and accuracy have Washington dreaming big, and he’s already proven he can handle the spotlight.

6. Matthew Stafford – Los Angeles Rams

Even at his age, Stafford’s arm talent remains elite. Pair him with Sean McVay’s creativity, Puka Nacua’s rise, and Kyren Williams’ versatility, and you’ve got a quarterback who can still carve up defenses.

7. C.J. Stroud – Houston Texans

The 2023 Offensive Rookie of the Year followed up with another strong season, showing poise beyond his years. Stroud’s decision-making and accuracy have the Texans firmly in the contender mix.

8. Justin Herbert – Los Angeles Chargers

Herbert has all the tools — size, arm strength, mobility — and now finally has an offensive system designed to maximize his skills.

9. Baker Mayfield – Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Mayfield’s resurgence in Tampa wasn’t a fluke. He’s playing smart, aggressive football, and his chemistry with Mike Evans remains one of the best QB-WR connections in the league.

10. Jalen Hurts – Philadelphia Eagles

His leadership and physicality still make him one of the league’s most dangerous offensive weapons. If Philly wants to repeat, Hurts will climb this list fast.

11. Jared Goff – Detroit Lions

Goff has quietly become one of the NFL’s most efficient passers. With a strong offensive line and explosive weapons, he’s been the perfect fit for Dan Campbell’s vision in Detroit.

12. Jordan Love – Green Bay Packers

Love’s breakout in 2024 proved Green Bay knew what they were doing. He’s decisive, accurate, and unafraid to push the ball downfield — a perfect leader for the Packers’ young core.

13. Kyler Murray – Arizona Cardinals

Fully healthy again, Murray’s speed and quick release make him a nightmare for defenses. If Arizona’s offense stays balanced, Murray can return to his Pro Bowl form.

14. Geno Smith – Las Vegas Raiders

Smith’s second act continues to impress. He’s accurate, efficient, and unafraid to take deep shots, making Las Vegas a playoff threat in the AFC.

15. Bo Nix – Denver Broncos

It’s early, but Nix has shown flashes of being the long-term answer in Denver. His accuracy and composure under pressure give the Broncos hope for a franchise turnaround.

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