Tom Brady has long been revered not only for his exceptional career on the field but also for his insights off of it. During his illustrious 23-year career, Brady amassed seven Super Bowl titles, cementing his legacy as one of the greatest quarterbacks of all time. Now, as he transitions into a post-playing career, his observations carry significant weight among fans and pundits alike.
Over the weekend at Fanatics Fest, Brady shared his thoughts on the current landscape of NFL quarterbacks. His assessment highlighted five players who, in his view, are the top signal-callers in the league today: Patrick Mahomes, Josh Allen, Lamar Jackson, Joe Burrow, and Aaron Rodgers.
Patrick Mahomes Leads the Pack
The list begins with Patrick Mahomes, the dynamic quarterback for the Kansas City Chiefs. Mahomes, known for his amazing arm strength and playmaking ability, has consistently dazzled fans and opponents since entering the league. He has swiftly become one of the most feared quarterbacks, leading his team to multiple Super Bowl appearances and securing his place at the top of Brady's list.
Josh Allen: A Consistently Impressive Talent
Josh Allen of the Buffalo Bills ranks second in Brady’s ranking. The admiration for Allen is evident in Brady’s remarks. "I think, consistently, of all the guys I've seen, Josh Allen is someone who always impresses me as a player," Brady said during the event. Allen’s blend of size, speed, and arm talent has made him a formidable force, helping the Bills become perennial contenders.
Lamar Jackson: A Dual-Threat Phenom
Third on Brady's list is Lamar Jackson, the Baltimore Ravens’ electrifying quarterback. Jackson’s unique skill set has redefined the quarterback position, showcasing what a dual-threat player can achieve. His 2019 MVP season is a testament to his remarkable abilities. Brady’s appreciation for Jackson’s talent was clear: "I see Lamar Jackson, who always impresses me as a player."
Joe Burrow: The Precision Passer
Coming in fourth is Joe Burrow of the Cincinnati Bengals. Burrow’s meteoric rise following a severe injury has been nothing short of remarkable. His pinpoint accuracy and calm demeanor under pressure have made him one of the most promising young quarterbacks in the NFL. Brady commented on Burrow’s proficiency: "Joe Burrow is really impressive the way he throws the ball."
Aaron Rodgers: Veteran Excellence
Rounding out Brady's top five is Aaron Rodgers of the Green Bay Packers. Despite facing various challenges over the years, including injuries and a shifting roster, Rodgers has consistently delivered masterful performances. He remains one of the most cerebral and efficient quarterbacks in the game, showing a deep connection with his teammates, which Brady acknowledged: "Another guy who's got a great connection with his teammates."
Peyton Manning’s Perspective
Adding another layer of intrigue to the discussion, fellow NFL legend Peyton Manning also shared his rankings during the event. In contrast to Brady, Manning’s top five included Justin Herbert of the Los Angeles Chargers instead of Rodgers. Herbert, with his impressive arm and poise under pressure, has quickly gained recognition among the league’s elite quarterbacks.
These rankings offer a fascinating glimpse into how two of the greatest quarterbacks in NFL history view the current talent in the league. While their lists differ slightly, the mutual respect for the burgeoning talents is evident. Both Brady and Manning have faced and overcome myriad challenges throughout their storied careers, giving their assessments an unparalleled depth of understanding.
As fans and analysts continue to debate the merits of these rankings, one thing remains clear: the NFL’s quarterback landscape is in good hands with the likes of Mahomes, Allen, Jackson, Burrow, Rodgers, and Herbert leading the way. The blend of seasoned veterans and rising stars promises an exciting future for football aficionados. In the end, the insight from legends like Brady and Manning not only adds to the rich dialogue surrounding the sport but also highlights the evolving nature of the game.