Peyton Manning has always been known for his sharp football acumen, a trait that carried him to the Hall of Fame and continues to echo through his current football analysis. Recently, at the high-profile Fanatics Fest, Manning was asked to weigh in on a hot topic: Who are the top five quarterbacks currently dominating the NFL?
True to form, Manning offered a list that's both insightful and revealing, highlighting Patrick Mahomes, Joe Burrow, Justin Herbert, Lamar Jackson, and Josh Allen as the quarterbacks he regards as the best in the league right now.
Patrick Mahomes: Leading the Pack
At the top of Manning’s list is Patrick Mahomes, a player known for his versatility and explosive playmaking abilities under the guidance of Kansas City Chiefs head coach Andy Reid. "Quarterbacks need to be coached hard. Andy Reid coaches Patrick Mahomes hard. That's good for Patrick, but that's bad for NFL defenses," Manning pointedly remarked. Reid's diligent coaching style has certainly paid dividends, enabling Mahomes to steer the Chiefs toward multiple playoff runs and a Super Bowl victory, cementing his place as a top-tier quarterback.
Joe Burrow: The Calm and Cool Leader
Joe Burrow, another quarterback who consistently impresses, received commendation for his unflappable demeanor. Manning, a keen observer of on-field poise, praised Burrow’s calm under pressure. "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 return to health has been a significant boon for the Cincinnati Bengals, making them a force to reckon with in the AFC.
Justin Herbert: Record-Breaking Talent
Next up is Justin Herbert of the Los Angeles Chargers, a quarterback Manning recognizes as a special talent. "This Justin Herbert is as talented as anybody. He can throw it a mile. The Broncos' division is gonna be tough," noted Manning. Herbert has already broken Manning's own record for the most passing yards in NFL history through four seasons. His cannon-like arm and quick decision-making prowess make the Chargers a perennial threat in the league.
Lamar Jackson: Electrifying Playmaker
Lamar Jackson, a dynamic quarterback for the Baltimore Ravens, also found favor with Manning, who seems to marvel at his dual-threat capabilities. "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," quipped Manning. Jackson’s two-time MVP status speaks volumes about his impact on the game, as he continuously redefines what a quarterback can do on the field.
Josh Allen: The Motivated Powerhouse
Rounding out Manning’s list is Josh Allen of the Buffalo Bills, praised for his toughness and relentless drive. "Josh Allen is a total stud. Tough. I saw him this summer. He is so motivated to bring a championship to Buffalo," Manning shared. Since 2019, few quarterbacks have been as productive as Allen, who has made the Bills a yearly contender with his versatile skill set and sheer determination.
Notably absent from Manning’s list were quarterbacks like Dak Prescott, C.J. Stroud, Brock Purdy, and Jordan Love. While these players have shown promise and capability, the Hall of Fame legend evidently holds his selected quintet in higher regard.
Manning’s insights offer a glimpse into the mind of one of football’s greatest tacticians. His analyses are not merely reflective of current stats but are rooted in an understanding of the mental and physical trials that these quarterbacks endure week in and week out. For fans and analysts alike, Peyton’s picks provide not only validation for these elite athletes but also a preview of which quarterbacks will likely shape the narrative of upcoming NFL seasons.