Josh Allen Tops ESPN’s Quarterback Rankings, Surpassing Mahomes

In a surprising turn, Josh Allen of the Buffalo Bills has been recognized as the top quarterback in the NFL, according to a new survey by ESPN. This annual poll includes insights from NFL executives, coaches, and scouts, who have shifted their votes from Patrick Mahomes of the Kansas City Chiefs to Allen.

ESPN reporter Jeremy Fowler noted that Allen has been steadily challenging Mahomes for this title. Despite facing tough competition, Allen managed to average a ranking of 2.10 per ballot. This was critical in overcoming Mahomes’ stronger first-place vote percentage, with Allen’s at 34.1% compared to Mahomes’ 41.5%.

One NFL general manager praised Allen’s unique achievements in NFL history, particularly highlighting his records of more than 200 passing touchdowns and 50 rushing touchdowns.

While Mahomes has fallen to second place, Matthew Stafford, Joe Burrow, and Lamar Jackson complete the list of top five quarterbacks. Notably, Allen and Mahomes faced off recently, with the Bills defeating the Chiefs 30-21 at Highmark Stadium in Orchard Park, N.Y.

Allen’s rise has sparked debate in the sports media, where he is often viewed as a controversial figure due to his status as a leading white quarterback. Critics point out that Allen has not yet beaten Mahomes in playoff games and has fewer Super Bowl titles and appearances.

Despite Mahomes’ undeniable legacy and status as one of the greatest quarterbacks in history, the survey focused on current performance. By that measure, Allen has shown consistent excellence over the past three seasons.

Josh Allen, from 2023 to 2025, achieved:

• 11,705 passing yards
• 82 passing touchdowns
• 34 interceptions
• 98.6 passer rating

Meanwhile, Patrick Mahomes recorded:

• 11,698 passing yards
• 75 passing touchdowns
• 36 interceptions
• 91.9 passer rating

Allen’s passing performance slightly edges out Mahomes’, and his rushing game widens the gap. Over the same period, Allen scored 41 rushing touchdowns, while Mahomes managed only seven. Allen’s total touchdown count reaches 123, compared to Mahomes’ 82.

There are parallels here to the historical comparisons between Tom Brady and Peyton Manning. Mahomes’ victories and legendary postseason achievements mirror Brady’s career, whereas Allen’s consistent weekly performance resembles Manning’s.

While Mahomes’ advocates cite his work with head coach Andy Reid and general manager Brett Veach, Allen has benefitted from superior team support, including a strong offensive line and running game. Sharp Football Analysis ranked the Bills’ offensive line third, significantly higher than the Chiefs’, who ranked 23rd.

Moreover, Bills running back James Cook led the league in rushing, starkly contrasting with the Chiefs’ Kareem Hunt’s less impressive performance.

Ultimately, both players have their strengths, whether in team support or individual performance. However, the professional evaluators affirm Allen’s capabilities, while some sports analysts frame the discussion around cultural issues.

Figures such as Ryan Clark and Cam Newton challenge Allen’s standing, attempting to position him as less accomplished compared to quarterbacks like Lamar Jackson. Despite these narratives, the qualified professionals responsible for assessing football talent see Allen as an equal to Mahomes. Entering the 2026 season, Allen stands as the slightly superior quarterback.