The NFL’s top-10 QBs: coaches, scouts and league insiders rank the best quarterbacks for the 2025 season

As training camps open and optimism collides with reality across the National Football League, ESPN’s annual quarterback rankings – compiled from the votes of over 70 league insiders – offer a blunt reality check. Here’s a rundown of the cold, calculated assessments from coaches, execs and scouts on who’s really best as we ponder the season ahead.

Who are the NFL’s best quarterbacks in 2025?

Keeping the anticipation, let’s start at No. 10 with Baker Mayfield, who has quietly turned a one-year prove-yourself deal in Tampa into sustained success. He’s thrown 73 touchdowns over the past two seasons - trailing only Josh Allen and Lamar Jackson – and led the NFL in touchdown passes and completion percentage against the blitz last year.

At No. 9, Jalen Hurts continues to pile up short-yardage scores like no quarterback in league history. His 10 rushing touchdowns in four straight seasons is unmatched, and he improved his deep-ball accuracy and ball security in 2024. Still, there are doubts about his ceiling in a pass-heavy scheme.

Landing at No. 8 is Jared Goff, now a consistent presence on these rankings. Goff threw for 4,629 yards last season, thrived in play-action, and has grown into one of the league’s most efficient, and reliable, passers.

Justin Herbert takes the No. 7 spot. The Los Angeles Chargers man boasts the most passing yards ever across five NFL seasons. Despite operating in a limited offense, Herbert’s interception rate was the lowest in the league. But postseason success remains elusive.

Coming in at No. 6 is Matthew Stafford, still respected at age 37 for his toughness, pocket command and elite feel in key moments. He remains one of the most dangerous quarterbacks on third-and-long and continues to deliver despite nagging injuries.

Jayden Daniels makes an impressive debut at No. 5. The 24-year-old Washington Commanders quarterback led the team to the NFC title game as a rookie and recorded a league-best QBR on third and fourth downs. His poise, speed and accuracy already have insiders comparing him to league MVPs.

At No. 4, Lamar Jackson builds on his legacy with perhaps his best all-around season yet, with 41 touchdown passes, just four interceptions and the best Total QBR in the NFL. He’s developed into a true dual threat, winning from the pocket and still terrifying in the open field.

Joe Burrow ranks third after posting nearly 5,000 yards and 43 touchdowns. His footwork, precision and ability to operate under pressure continue to impress evaluators, who see him as the league’s most technically sound quarterback.

Just ahead at No. 2 is Josh Allen, who bounced back from turnover concerns to post an MVP campaign. With 40 total touchdowns and the top QBR under pressure, Allen finally looks like the complete package – minus a Super Bowl ring.

Still clinging to the top spot is Patrick Mahomes. The Kansas City Chiefs star wasn’t dominant by his own standards last year, but his third-down efficiency, leadership and sheer talent keep him at No. 1. He no longer feels untouchable, though, but no one has pushed him off the throne... yet!

Read the full analysis from the excellent Jeremy Fowler, including honorable mentions and follows with a comparison with the previous year. Here’s a summary of this year’s top 10.

Get your game on! Whether you’re into NFL touchdowns, NBA buzzer-beaters, world-class soccer goals, or MLB home runs, our app has it all.

Dive into live coverage, expert insights, breaking news, exclusive videos, and more – plus, stay updated on the latest in current affairs and entertainment. Download now for all-access coverage, right at your fingertips – anytime, anywhere.