Peyton Manning Reveals His Top Five NFL Quarterbacks
In a recent discussion about the current landscape of NFL quarterbacks, legendary quarterback Peyton Manning shared his insights on the top players dominating the field today. Manning, who has experienced the highs and lows of an illustrious career, provided an authoritative list of his top five quarterbacks: Patrick Mahomes, Joe Burrow, Justin Herbert, Lamar Jackson, and Josh Allen.
The Versatile Mahomes
Heading the list is Patrick Mahomes, whose versatility and explosive playmaking have become his signatures. Under the tutelage of Kansas City Chiefs' head coach Andy Reid, Mahomes has transformed into one of the league's most formidable quarterbacks. Manning noted, "Quarterbacks need to be coached hard. Andy Reid coaches Patrick Mahomes hard. That's good for Patrick, but that's bad for NFL defenses." Indeed, Mahomes has been instrumental in leading the Chiefs to multiple playoff runs and a Super Bowl victory, cementing his status as a top-tier quarterback.
Joe Burrow's Unflappable Demeanor
Next in line is Joe Burrow of the Cincinnati Bengals, who has consistently impressed with his calm and collected demeanor on the field. Manning admitted his admiration for Burrow, saying, "I'm a big fan of Joe Burrow. Glad to see him back healthy. I like the way he carries himself. I like his demeanor out there. He doesn't sweat. He doesn't flinch. He's just kind of calm and cool the whole time." Burrow's ability to stay composed under pressure has made him a reliable leader for the Bengals.
Justin Herbert's Record-Breaking Talent
Justin Herbert of the Los Angeles Chargers also made Manning’s prestigious list. Known for his extraordinary arm strength and talent, Herbert has already broken Manning's own record for the most passing yards through the first four NFL seasons. Manning praised Herbert's capabilities, stating, "This Justin Herbert is as talented as anybody. He can throw it a mile. The Broncos' division is gonna be tough."
The Magic of Lamar Jackson
Lamar Jackson of the Baltimore Ravens continues to astound fans and critics alike with his exceptional skills. The only quarterback on Manning’s list to have won the MVP award twice, Jackson combines the ability to make incredible throws and impressive runs, all while maintaining his physical health. Manning acknowledged, "Lamar Jackson does things that just don't seem possible with the football in his hands. He makes throws, he runs, and he protects himself too. I never could run, so I never had that problem." Jackson’s unparalleled agility and resourcefulness keep him at the forefront of the game.
Josh Allen: Buffalo's Motivated Leader
Rounding out Manning's top five is Josh Allen of the Buffalo Bills. Since 2019, Allen has been one of the most productive quarterbacks in the league, showcasing toughness and determination that inspire his teammates. Manning, who saw Allen over the summer, shared, "Josh Allen is a total stud. Tough. I saw him this summer. He is so motivated to bring a championship to Buffalo." With such a drive, Allen stands poised to reach new heights in his career.
Interestingly, Manning's list did not mention other notable quarterbacks like Dak Prescott, C.J. Stroud, Brock Purdy, and Jordan Love. While these quarterbacks have shown potential and capability, the five Manning highlighted represent a unique blend of talent, consistency, and leadership that currently sets them apart in the highly competitive arena of the NFL.
As one of the greatest quarterbacks in NFL history, Manning's opinions carry weight and offer valuable insights into what makes a quarterback truly exceptional. His list underscores the changing dynamics of the position, highlighting players who can adapt, innovate, and lead their teams to success in an ever-evolving game.