Tom Brady, the legendary quarterback who had an illustrious 23-year career in the NFL, recently shared his insights on the current crop of quarterbacks dominating the league. Speaking at Fanatics Fest over the weekend, Brady unveiled his top five quarterbacks in the NFL today, a list that reflects the high standards and deep understanding of the game that defined his own career.
Leading the Pack: Patrick Mahomes
At the top of Brady’s list is none other than Patrick Mahomes. The Kansas City Chiefs quarterback has been nothing short of extraordinary since entering the league, and his placement at the pinnacle of Brady’s list is a testament to his skill, poise, and impact on the game. Mahomes has already secured a Super Bowl title and MVP honors, and his dynamic playing style continues to captivate fans and analysts alike.
Second Place: Josh Allen
In the second spot, Brady praises Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen. "I think, consistently, of all the guys I've seen, Josh Allen is someone who always impresses me as a player," Brady remarked. Allen’s combination of arm strength, mobility, and leadership has propelled the Bills to new heights, making them perennial contenders in the AFC.
Third Place: Lamar Jackson
Lamar Jackson, the Baltimore Ravens’ electrifying quarterback, claims the third spot on Brady’s list. Brady's admiration for Jackson is evident: "I see Lamar Jackson, who always impresses me as a player." Known for his unparalleled speed and agility, Jackson has redefined the quarterback position with his unique dual-threat capabilities, earning him an MVP award and a lasting spot in the highlight reels.
Fourth Place: Joe Burrow
Joe Burrow of the Cincinnati Bengals takes the fourth position. “Joe Burrow is really impressive the way he throws the ball," Brady noted. Burrow’s precision and composure in just his second year in the NFL have drawn widespread acclaim. Leading the Bengals to a Super Bowl appearance, Burrow’s trajectory suggests a bright future ahead.
Fifth Place: Aaron Rodgers
Rounding out Brady’s list is the veteran Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers. A perennial powerhouse in the NFL, Rodgers’ inclusion highlights his sustained excellence and influence in the league. Known for his exceptional accuracy and decision-making, Rodgers’ career is decorated with numerous accolades, including multiple MVP awards.
Interestingly, fellow Hall of Famer Peyton Manning also shared his rankings during the event, opting for a slightly different list. Manning's top quarterbacks included Justin Herbert, the promising Los Angeles Chargers quarterback, instead of Rodgers. This small deviation underscores the nuances and subjective nature of evaluating talent at the highest level.
Throughout his career, Tom Brady set the gold standard for what it means to be an elite quarterback. His selection of Mahomes, Allen, Jackson, Burrow, and Rodgers as the cream of the crop reflects the blend of raw talent, strategic acumen, and leadership that he himself epitomized. Each quarterback on Brady’s list has demonstrated extraordinary ability and has the potential to shape the future of the NFL, much as Brady did in his storied career.
As fans and analysts dissect these rankings, the dialogue around what makes a great quarterback will undoubtedly continue. Brady’s perspective, enriched by years of firsthand experience and unparalleled success, provides a valuable lens through which to appreciate the current and future stars of the NFL.