Peyton Manning Offers Insight on the Top Quarterbacks Dominating the NFL
Peyton Manning, a Hall of Fame quarterback who led teams with his precision and football IQ, recently unveiled his list of the top five quarterbacks currently making waves in the NFL. Among those mentioned were Patrick Mahomes, Joe Burrow, Justin Herbert, Lamar Jackson, and Josh Allen. Each of these athletes brings a unique set of strengths to the field, and Manning's observations shine a light on what makes them stand out.
Patrick Mahomes, the superstar leading the Kansas City Chiefs, has become synonymous with versatility and explosive playmaking. Under the guidance of head coach Andy Reid, Mahomes has not only showcased his immense talent but has also demonstrated an ability to absorb hard coaching—something Manning believes is crucial. "Quarterbacks need to be coached hard. Andy Reid coaches Patrick Mahomes hard. That's good for Patrick, but that's bad for NFL defenses," Manning remarked. This dynamic has propelled Mahomes and the Chiefs to multiple playoff appearances and a coveted Super Bowl victory.
Joe Burrow of the Cincinnati Bengals is another quarterback who consistently turns heads. Known for his unflappable demeanor, Burrow's calm and collected nature on the field leaves a lasting impression. "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," said Manning. Burrow's resilience and leadership have been instrumental in the Bengals' recent successes.
Equally impressive is Justin Herbert of the Los Angeles Chargers. Herbert has not only met but exceeded early career expectations, breaking Manning's own record for the most passing yards through his first four NFL seasons. Manning's admiration for Herbert's raw talent is evident. "This Justin Herbert is as talented as anybody. He can throw it a mile. The Broncos' division is gonna be tough," he noted. Herbert's strong arm and keen football sense solidify him as a top-tier quarterback.
Lamar Jackson of the Baltimore Ravens brings a different flair to the quarterback position with his extraordinary athleticism. His dual-threat capability as both a passer and a runner is unmatched in the league today. Manning, who was known more for his cerebral approach to the game, expressed awe at Jackson's abilities. "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," Manning quipped. Jackson’s accolades, including two MVP awards, only add to his impressive resume.
The final quarterback on Manning's list is Josh Allen of the Buffalo Bills. Since 2019, Allen has been among the most productive QBs in the NFL, known for his toughness and competitive spirit. "Josh Allen is a total stud. Tough. I saw him this summer. He is so motivated to bring a championship to Buffalo," Manning observed. Allen’s determination to lead his team to a title is palpable, and his performance on the field continues to back up that drive.
While Manning's list highlights these five quarterbacks, there are several other notable names making an impact in the league. Quarterbacks like Dak Prescott, C.J. Stroud, Brock Purdy, and Jordan Love also draw attention, though they didn't make Manning's top five. Nonetheless, the depth of talent at the quarterback position in the NFL today is remarkable, and fans are treated to high-caliber performances week in and week out.
As Manning continues to engage with the sport post-retirement, his insights provide valuable context for understanding the elite levels of play seen in the NFL. His praise for these quarterbacks underscores the evolving dynamics of the position and the relentless pursuit of excellence that defines the careers of these exceptional athletes.