Peyton Manning Names Top Five NFL Quarterbacks
In the ever-evolving landscape of the NFL, few opinions carry the weight of Peyton Manning’s. The two-time Super Bowl champion recently unveiled his list of the top five quarterbacks currently dominating the league, and his selections are a testament to the dynamic talent gracing the gridiron today.
The names included by Manning are Patrick Mahomes, Joe Burrow, Justin Herbert, Lamar Jackson, and Josh Allen. Each of these quarterbacks brings a unique skill set and leadership style, making them standout performers in their respective roles.
Patrick Mahomes: The Versatile Playmaker
Leading Manning's list is Patrick Mahomes, whose versatility and explosive playmaking abilities have been the cornerstone of the Kansas City Chiefs' success. Head coach Andy Reid nurtures Mahomes’ talent through rigorous coaching, a dynamic that Manning highlighted, 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." Mahomes' leadership on the field has been instrumental in the Chiefs' multiple playoff runs and a triumphant Super Bowl victory.
Joe Burrow: The Cool Operator
Next on Manning's list is Joe Burrow of the Cincinnati Bengals. Burrow’s stoic demeanor and unflappable presence in high-pressure situations have made him a favorite of Manning. "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," Manning remarked. Burrow’s calm under pressure continues to earn him accolades from fans and analysts alike.
Justin Herbert: The Record Breaker
Third on the list is Justin Herbert, who plays for the Los Angeles Chargers. Herbert's cannon-like arm and impressive statistics have not gone unnoticed. Not only has he broken Manning's own record for the most passing yards through four NFL seasons, but his potential seems boundless. In Manning's words, "This Justin Herbert is as talented as anybody. He can throw it a mile. The Broncos' division is gonna be tough."
Lamar Jackson: The Dual-Threat Dynamo
Lamar Jackson of the Baltimore Ravens captures the fourth spot, known for his incredible athleticism and versatility. A two-time MVP, Jackson’s ability to both run and throw with exceptional skill sets him apart. Manning, comparing his own style to Jackson’s, noted, "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."
Josh Allen: The Motivated Leader
Rounding out the list is Josh Allen of the Buffalo Bills, a quarterback whose physical toughness and relentless drive make him an imposing force on the field. "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, Allen has been among the league's most productive quarterbacks, and his hunger for success remains insatiable.
While Manning’s selections are undoubtedly deserving, there are other notable quarterbacks who didn’t make the cut. Dak Prescott, C.J. Stroud, Brock Purdy, and Jordan Love have all shown incredible promise and are certainly players to watch as the season progresses.
Manning’s insights offer a valuable perspective on the qualities that define today’s elite NFL quarterbacks: versatility, composure, arm strength, athleticism, and an unyielding drive to succeed. As the season progresses, these quarterbacks will continue to captivate fans with their performances, solidifying their places in NFL history.