NFL executives, coaches, and scouts have ranked Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen as the league's top passer, displacing Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes from the No. 1 spot. The shift, revealed in ESPN's annual poll, marks the first time Allen has surpassed Mahomes in the rankings, which are based on current performance rather than legacy.
Core Facts:
- Allen leads Mahomes in composite voting, averaging a ranking of 2.10 per ballot, while Mahomes received 41.5% of first-place votes.
- Mahomes' supporting cast has been cited as a factor in his decline, with the Chiefs struggling to establish a consistent running game and losing key receivers like Tyreek Hill.
Deeper Dive & Context:
Allen's Rise
Allen's ascension is attributed to his dual-threat capability, having thrown for 11,705 yards and 82 touchdowns while rushing for 50 scores over the past three seasons. An anonymous NFL general manager praised his "unstoppable" play when at his best, noting his reduced turnovers in recent years. Despite a divisional-round loss to the Denver Broncos, Allen's ability to elevate his supporting cast—including receivers like Khalil Shakir and Brandin Cooks—was highlighted.
Mahomes' Challenges
Mahomes, who led all QBs in first-place votes, has faced criticism for holding the ball too long and forcing throws. His production has declined since 2022, with 75 touchdowns and 36 interceptions over the same span. The Chiefs' struggles in the run game and the departure of Hill have been cited as contributing factors. However, Mahomes' legacy remains unquestioned, with two Super Bowl titles and five appearances to his name.
Other Notable Rankings
The top five quarterbacks, per the poll, are:
- Josh Allen (Bills)
- Patrick Mahomes (Chiefs)
- Matthew Stafford (Rams)
- Joe Burrow (Bengals)
- Lamar Jackson (Ravens)
Jalen Hurts' Omission
Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts was notably absent from the top 10, despite a career-high 25 passing touchdowns in 2025. An AFC offensive coach defended his Super Bowl credentials and intangibles, though his wild-card loss to the 49ers may have impacted his ranking.
Supporting Cast Dynamics
The Bills have bolstered Allen's roster with additions like D.J. Moore and Skyler Bell, while the Chiefs' offense has struggled to replace Hill's production. Mahomes' reliance on Travis Kelce, who has declined in recent years, has also been a point of discussion.
Long-Term Implications
The rankings reflect a shift in the NFL's quarterback hierarchy, with Allen emerging as the current standard despite Mahomes' historical dominance. The debate over legacy vs. present performance remains central to the discussion.