Quarterback is the most important position in not just the NFL, but all of sports. No position has more of an impact on an outcome than a signal-caller in football.
That’s why it’s a good idea to take a look at a quarterback ranking because this is the ultimate equalizer in the NFL. You can have a stacked roster, but if your QB isn’t good enough, it won’t matter that much. However, it can be difficult to rank quarterbacks because their surface stats (ex. passing yards, touchdowns) depend a lot on team context.
Here are our rankings of NFL quarterbacks, starting at No. 1 and ending at No. 40. We’ve ranked players based on track record, recent performance, and future projection.
NFL Quarterback Power Rankings
NFL Quarterback power rankings are as of August 9, 2026.
- Josh Allen, Buffalo Bills
- Joe Burrow, Cincinnati Bengals
- Matthew Stafford, Los Angeles Rams
- Lamar Jackson, Baltimore Ravens
- Drake Maye, New England Patriots
- Patrick Mahomes, Kansas City Chiefs
- Justin Herbert, Los Angeles Chargers
- Dak Prescott, Dallas Cowboys
- Trevor Lawrence, Jacksonville Jaguars
- Jayden Daniels, Washington Commanders
- Caleb Williams, Chicago Bears
- Bo Nix, Denver Broncos
- Jordan Love, Green Bay Packers
- Brock Purdy, San Francisco 49ers
- Jalen Hurts, Philadelphia Eagles
- Jared Goff, Detroit Lions
- Jaxson Dart, New York Giants
- Baker Mayfield, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
- Sam Darnold, Seattle Seahawks
- Daniel Jones, Indianapolis Colts
- Tyler Shough, New Orleans Saints
- Kyler Murray, Minnesota Vikings
- C.J. Stroud, Houston Texans
- Aaron Rodgers, Pittsburgh Steelers
- Geno Smith, New York Jets
- Jacoby Brissett, Arizona Cardinals
- Cam Ward, Tennessee Titans
- Malik Willis, Miami Dolphins
- Bryce Young, Carolina Panthers
- Tua Tagovailoa, Atlanta Falcons
- Kirk Cousins, Las Vegas Raiders
- Fernando Mendoza, Las Vegas Raiders
- Michael Penix Jr., Atlanta Falcons
- Mac Jones, San Francisco 49ers
- Ty Simpson, Los Angeles Rams
Patrick Mahomes looked back on track, but then tore his ACL. It will be interesting to see how that affects him going into next season. This will likely force him to be more of a pocket passer. Let’s see how that changes his game. This injury concern is the only reason why he’s this low.
Caleb Williams has all the talent in the world, and he’s starting to put it together with Ben Johnson calling plays. I can see him truly taking off next year. It feels like it’s only a matter of time before he becomes one of the best in the game.
Jordan Love is held back by a run-heavy offense, but he has all the tools to be one of the best quarterbacks in the NFL. Matt LaFleur just needs to let him cook, since he’s got all the tools.
Mac Jones did a fantastic job filling in for the injured Brock Purdy. If he was forced to start for another team, he can be effective, especially if he’s in a Shanahan-style offense. He’d make a lot of sense on the Cardinals with Mike LaFleur. Maybe next year?
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Keep on reading to see the rest of the quarterback power rankings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some Frequently Asked Questions about quarterbacks:
What traits matter most when evaluating quarterbacks?
Processing speed, accuracy, and decision-making matter more than arm strength alone. The best quarterbacks consistently get the ball out on time, protect it, and create easy throws within structure before relying on off-script plays.
How much does offensive line play impact quarterback performance?
Offensive line play has a significant impact. Clean pockets improve efficiency, while constant pressure can ruin timing and mechanics. Even elite quarterbacks see sharp drops in EPA and completion rate when pressured at high rates.
Can quarterbacks improve significantly after their first few seasons?
Yes, but improvement usually comes from better coaching, improved supporting casts, or schematic changes. Quarterbacks rarely fix major processing or accuracy issues on their own, but they can refine strengths in the right environment.
Are mobile quarterbacks more valuable than pocket passers?
Mobility adds value by extending plays and creating rushing upside, but it isn’t a requirement. Pocket passers can still rank highly if they win with anticipation, accuracy, and pre-snap recognition.
How much do turnovers affect quarterback rankings?
Turnovers are one of the biggest drivers of quarterback evaluation. Interceptions and fumbles swing win probability dramatically, which is why quarterbacks who limit negative plays tend to rank higher even without gaudy volume stats.
