Ranking the Top 10 NFL QBs: Josh Allen or Patrick Mahomes at No. 1?

As the NFL gears up for the highly anticipated 2026 season, a heated debate is unfolding over who reigns supreme among the league's top quarterbacks. Patrick Mahomes, a perennial MVP candidate, faced a disappointing 2025 season before suffering a devastating ACL injury, casting doubt over his future. Meanwhile, Josh Allen, the reigning MVP, has been a strong contender for the award in recent years but has yet to overcome the playoff hurdle. Amidst this backdrop of uncertainty, Colin Cowherd, a prominent sports commentator, recently weighed in on the topic, sharing his take on the top 10 quarterbacks in the NFL.

Background & Context

The NFL's quarterback hierarchy has long been a topic of fascination, with fans and analysts alike eagerly debating the merits of each top-tier quarterback. This season's discussion is particularly intriguing, given the varying levels of success experienced by established stars like Mahomes and Allen, as well as the emergence of young talent like Drake Maye and Caleb Williams.

The 2026 season promises to be a pivotal moment in the careers of these quarterbacks, with many looking to build on past achievements or overcome past disappointments. As the league prepares for the new campaign, one thing is clear: the competition for the top spot will be fiercer than ever.

Key Details

Cowherd's ranking of the top 10 quarterbacks in the NFL is a thought-provoking exercise that sheds light on the complexities of each player's game. Here are some key takeaways from his assessment:

Drake Maye, a 24-year-old quarterback, edges out Lamar Jackson for the top spot. Maye's impressive stats, including a 70% completion percentage and 4,000 passing yards, make a compelling case for his inclusion among the league's elite. His ability to thrive despite a subpar offensive line and running game is a testament to his exceptional accuracy and poise under pressure.

Cowherd also praises Jordan Love, citing his impressive arm talent, size, and smarts. Love's inconsistent September performances are a concern, but his overall talent and durability make him a significant player in the league. The quarterback's ability to overcome injuries and maintain a high level of play is a valuable asset for any team.

Goff's impressive track record, including leading the league in passing yards, touchdowns, and wins over the last three seasons, earns him a spot in Cowherd's top 10. His ability to excel from the pocket and thrive in various coordinators' systems is a testament to his skill and adaptability.

Matthew Stafford, the 2025 MVP, is another quarterback who makes Cowherd's list. His impressive record over the past four seasons, including 28 wins and a Super Bowl trophy, solidifies his position among the league's top quarterbacks. His ability to lead teams to victory despite adversity is a valuable asset for any team.

Joe Burrow, while an exceptional quarterback, falls short of the top 10 due to his injury history and lack of a strong support system. His ability to overcome adversity and thrive in the face of challenges is undeniable, but his overall ranking is affected by his team's struggles and his own health issues.

What Experts Say

Cowherd's assessment of the top 10 quarterbacks in the NFL provides valuable insights into the complexities of each player's game. His emphasis on factors like accuracy, arm talent, and durability highlights the importance of well-rounded quarterbacks in today's NFL.

The debate over who should occupy the top spot is far from settled, with multiple quarterbacks vying for the crown. As the 2026 season unfolds, one thing is clear: the competition for the top spot will be fiercer than ever.

Key Takeaways

• Josh Allen and Patrick Mahomes are no longer the clear-cut favorites for the top spot, with other quarterbacks like Drake Maye and Matthew Stafford making strong cases for the crown.
• Jordan Love's impressive arm talent and durability make him a significant player in the league, despite inconsistent September performances.
• Goff's impressive track record and adaptability earn him a spot in Cowherd's top 10, despite concerns over his team's coordinator situation.
• Matthew Stafford's impressive record and leadership skills solidify his position among the league's top quarterbacks.

What This Means For You

As fans and analysts alike debate the merits of each top-tier quarterback, one thing is clear: the competition for the top spot will be fiercer than ever. For everyday readers, this means that the 2026 season promises to be a thrilling ride, with multiple quarterbacks vying for the crown.

As the season unfolds, it's essential to stay informed about the latest developments and trends in the NFL. By following the top quarterbacks and their performances, fans can gain a deeper understanding of the game and make more informed predictions about the season's outcome.

Ultimately, the debate over who is the best quarterback in the NFL is a reminder of the complexities and nuances of the game. As the 2026 season gets underway, one thing is clear: the competition for the top spot will be fierce, and only time will tell who will emerge victorious.