The recent release of the top-10 quarterback rankings by NFL insiders has sparked a fervent response from fans, and understandably so. This list hasn’t just stirred the pot; it’s ignited a full-blown debate among NFL enthusiasts, analysts, and players alike. With defending Super Bowl champion quarterbacks demoted to ninth place, and a rookie unexpectedly breaking into the top five, the controversy surrounding this ranking feels endless.
Former Cincinnati Bengal star Chad “Ochocinco” Johnson threw his weight behind Patrick Mahomes as the clear frontrunner for the best quarterback title in the league today. He passionately stated that Mahomes has certainly earned that recognition. As he and his NFL Hall of Fame co-host engaged in a lively discussion on their podcast, *Nightcap*, they addressed their differing opinions about who really deserves those coveted top spots.
“I’m putting Burrow second,” Johnson confidently asserted, placing Joe Burrow above his other notable peers. Despite his admiration for Josh Allen, Johnson leaned toward Lamar Jackson as his next choice. It’s these subjective nuances, the personal preferences each commentator brings to the ranking, that inject life into the conversation.
Surprisingly, both Johnson and his co-host noted the glaring omission of C.J. Stroud from the rankings—a move that left many questioning the decision-making abilities of those behind the scenes. Jalen Hurts, the quarterback who just led his team to a Super Bowl victory, barely scraped through into the top five. Johnson voiced a sentiment shared by many NFL fans: “How do we have the Super Bowl-winning quarterback not in the top five? What are these execs looking at?” It’s a valid concern, as fans wonder if the criteria for these rankings truly reflect performance and impact on the field.
Another contentious figure in the rankings is Justin Herbert. The Chargers’ quarterback is often highlighted for his exceptional arm strength and undeniable potential, yet his inability to lead his team to substantial playoff success raises eyebrows. Analyst Shannon Sharpe expressed skepticism about Herbert being named the seventh-best quarterback, questioning, “He can make all the throws, but are we sure?” It’s an awkward tension—acknowledging talent while grappling with real on-field results.
Joyfully, Johnson came to Herbert’s defense, emphasizing that the young QB has the skill set that could transform him into a remarkable player. However, it appears that Herbert will need to bolster his playoff résumé if he wants to solidify his place among football’s elite.
Given the divisive nature of ranking players—where opinions often clash—it’s no surprise that this official list has drawn heated criticism from fans and pundits alike. The absence of Stroud and the debate over Jackson’s ranking highlight the depth of discomfort with these evaluations. As shocking as it seems, a rookie is perceived as a more skilled passer than seasoned veterans like Matthew Stafford, who has not only claimed a Super Bowl title but has also entered the exclusive club of quarterbacks with 5,000-plus passing yards in a single season.
In short, this ranking may very well go down in history as one of the most controversial and debated assessments ever handed down by NFL executives. Fans everywhere are voicing their frustration and confusion, and rightfully so. After all, in the world of competitive sports, where passion runs deep, this list has become the subject of impassioned discussions that continue to reverberate throughout the league and among its dedicated followers.
Image Source: Chad Johnson @ Instagram
