Peyton Manning, one of the most respected voices in football, recently shared his thoughts on the top quarterbacks currently making waves in the NFL. In a list that reads like a who's who of young talent, Manning highlighted Patrick Mahomes, Joe Burrow, Justin Herbert, Lamar Jackson, and Josh Allen as the top five quarterbacks dominating the league today. These players, known for their unique skill sets and leadership qualities, have garnered Manning's admiration and the attention of football fans around the world.
Patrick Mahomes: The Playmaker
At the top of Manning's list is Patrick Mahomes, whose versatility and explosive playmaking abilities have set him apart. Leading the Kansas City Chiefs under the tutelage of head coach Andy Reid, Mahomes has helped the team achieve multiple playoff runs and secure a Super Bowl victory. Manning praised the dynamic between Mahomes and Reid, stating, "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's ability to perform under pressure and Reid's strategic prowess have proven to be a nightmare for opposing defenses.
Joe Burrow: The Unflappable Leader
Next on Manning's list is Joe Burrow, the Cincinnati Bengals' standout quarterback. Burrow is admired not just for his skill but for his calm and collected demeanor on the field. Manning shared his admiration, 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 composure under pressure has been a key factor in his success, making him a formidable presence on the field.
Justin Herbert: The Record-Breaker
Justin Herbert of the Los Angeles Chargers has also impressed Manning, having broken the record for the most passing yards through four NFL seasons—one that was previously held by Manning himself. Herbert's ability to make deep throws with precision and power is a significant part of his game. Manning noted, "This Justin Herbert is as talented as anybody. He can throw it a mile. The Broncos' division is gonna be tough." Herbert's physical gifts and strategic mind have positioned him as a rising star in the league.
Lamar Jackson: The Dual Threat
Representing the Baltimore Ravens, Lamar Jackson has made his mark with his unique combination of passing and rushing abilities. Manning marveled at Jackson’s skills, saying, "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 two-time MVP status underscores his exceptional talent and versatility, making him a dynamic threat to any defense.
Josh Allen: The Rising Star
Rounding out Manning's top five is Josh Allen of the Buffalo Bills. Known for his toughness and productivity since 2019, Allen has consistently been a formidable force on the field. Manning expressed his admiration, stating, "Josh Allen is a total stud. Tough. I saw him this summer. He is so motivated to bring a championship to Buffalo." Allen's dedication and work ethic have not gone unnoticed, as he continues to strive for excellence and aims to secure a championship for his team.
While Manning's list highlights the cream of the crop in today's NFL quarterback landscape, it’s notable that other talented quarterbacks like Dak Prescott, C.J. Stroud, Brock Purdy, and Jordan Love did not make the cut. This speaks to the depth of talent in the league and the high standards employed by a legend like Manning. Each of these quarterbacks brings their own flair and strengths to the game, making for an exciting and competitive era in professional football.
With these young stars leading their respective teams, the future of the NFL looks incredibly bright. Their skill, determination, and leadership resonate not only with fans but also with one of the greatest quarterbacks the game has ever seen. Peyton Manning's endorsements carry weight, and his list serves as a testament to the remarkable talent shaping the league today.