Josh Allen has been crowned the NFL’s top quarterback in ESPN’s latest rankings, overtaking Patrick Mahomes in a poll of coaches and executives. The Buffalo Bills star claimed the No. 1 spot after no respondent ranked him lower than fourth, with general managers praising his "singularly unstoppable" play when at his best.
Why did Josh Allen leapfrog Patrick Mahomes in the rankings?
Allen’s rise reflects a season where he cut turnovers to **16 in two years**—down from **18 in 2023 alone**—while posting a **career-high 69.3% completion rate**. Though his **215.8 passing yards per game** were his lowest since 2019, efficiency gains and a **lack of interceptions** sealed his reputation as the league’s most dominant force.
How does Allen compare to Mahomes and Stafford?
**Patrick Mahomes** remains No. 2 despite a down year, with coaches noting his ability to "put fear in people." **Matthew Stafford** jumped from sixth to third after winning MVP, while **Joe Burrow** and **Lamar Jackson** rounded out the top five. Allen’s receiving corps—led by **Khalil Shakir**—wasn’t elite, yet he "elevated the people around him," per one coordinator.
What do coaches say about Allen’s 2026 season?
A general manager called Allen "the most singularly unstoppable player at the position," emphasizing his reduced turnover rate. Another noted his **69.3% completion rate** as a key factor, even with limited support from wideouts. His ability to "make it work" despite weak receivers underscored his elite status.
Who else made the top 10—and why?
**Drake Maye** (No. 8) and **Caleb Williams** (No. 10) earned praise for their 2025 breakouts but face skepticism. Maye’s **MVP runner-up season (4,394 yards, 31 TDs)** wasn’t enough for some, while Williams—labeled "wildly erratic"—was called "the most dynamic" for his **NFC Wild Card win** and **3,942 passing yards**.
What’s next for Allen in 2026?
With **no respondent ranking him below fourth**, Allen’s No. 1 spot suggests he’s the clear standard. His efficiency gains and clutch play could push him further ahead if he maintains this trajectory. Meanwhile, Maye and Williams must prove their 2025 success wasn’t a fluke to climb higher next year.