2025 NFL Season Review: Ranking the Top 10 Quarterbacks and Their Impact
The 2025 NFL season was one for the ages, filled with unexpected twists, breakout performances, and the continued dominance of some familiar faces. As the confetti settles, it’s time to dissect the quarterback landscape and rank the top 10 signal-callers who left an indelible mark on the gridiron. This year saw Josh Allen of the Buffalo Bills finally capture that elusive Super Bowl ring, silencing doubters and solidifying his place among the NFL elite. But how did the rest of the league’s quarterbacks stack up? Let’s dive in.
1. Josh Allen, Buffalo Bills: The Reigning Champion
After years of near misses, Josh Allen finally reached the summit, leading the Buffalo Bills to a Super Bowl LIX victory. Allen’s dual-threat ability was on full display throughout the season, as he threw for 3,731 yards and 28 touchdowns while adding 531 rushing yards and 12 scores on the ground. Despite losing Stefon Diggs to the Houston Texans in the offseason, Allen elevated the play of his remaining targets, proving his MVP-caliber talent. His performance in the Super Bowl, a masterful display of clutch throws and timely runs, cemented his status as the league’s top quarterback in 2025.
2. Patrick Mahomes, Kansas City Chiefs: Still Elite, But…
Patrick Mahomes remains an elite quarterback, but the gap between him and the chasing pack has narrowed. While he led the Kansas City Chiefs to another AFC Championship appearance, Mahomes’ passing grade of 86.0 over the past two seasons is a step below the otherworldly level he displayed from 2018 through 2022. The Chiefs’ Super Bowl LIX loss to the Bills exposed some vulnerabilities, particularly in the deep passing game. According to Kevin Clark from This is Football, Mahomes had a career-high 30.8% of his passes targeting players at or behind the line of scrimmage, indicating a reliance on short, quick throws. To reclaim the undisputed top spot, Mahomes will need to re-establish his downfield threat.
3. Joe Burrow, Cincinnati Bengals: The Precision Passer
Joe Burrow continued to impress with his pinpoint accuracy and command of the Cincinnati Bengals’ offense. Despite facing consistent pressure, Burrow’s quick release and exceptional pocket presence allowed him to lead the league with 4,918 passing yards and 43 touchdowns. His connection with Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins remains one of the most potent in the NFL, making the Bengals a perennial contender in the AFC.
4. Lamar Jackson, Baltimore Ravens: The Electric Playmaker
Lamar Jackson’s electrifying running ability and improved passing skills make him a constant threat to opposing defenses. Jackson amassed over 5,000 total yards from scrimmage and accounted for 41 touchdowns, showcasing his versatility and impact on the Baltimore Ravens’ offense. As an anonymous NFL defensive coordinator told Jeremy Fowler of ESPN, Jackson is “the best space runner in the NFL, and he’s probably such a good passer now.”
5. Jayden Daniels, Washington Commanders: The Rising Star
Jayden Daniels continued his ascent in his second NFL season, leading the Washington Commanders to a surprising playoff berth. Daniels’ dual-threat ability and improved decision-making impressed many. His connection with Deebo Samuel was a particular highlight, with Samuel excelling on screen passes.
6. Matthew Stafford, Los Angeles Rams: The Veteran Gunslinger
At 37 years old, Matthew Stafford continues to defy Father Time, showcasing his toughness and deep-ball accuracy for the Los Angeles Rams. Despite injuries to key targets like Cooper Kupp and Puka Nacua, Stafford remained a dangerous quarterback, particularly on third downs. As one NFC coordinator noted, “a big factor for quarterbacks is what they can do on third and 10, and Matt scares you more than almost anybody in that situation.”
7. Justin Herbert, Los Angeles Chargers: The Untapped Potential
Justin Herbert remains an enigma, possessing immense talent but still searching for consistent playoff success. With another year under coach Jim Harbaugh, the Chargers are hoping Herbert can finally elevate his game and lead them to the promised land. Herbert’s regular-season performances are often stellar, but he needs to translate that success to the postseason to truly cement his place among the elite.
8. Jared Goff, Detroit Lions: The Steady Hand
Jared Goff continued his career resurgence with the Detroit Lions, guiding them to another NFC North title. Goff’s efficient decision-making and accuracy in Ben Johnson’s offensive system make him a reliable quarterback who minimizes mistakes. While he may not possess the flashy athleticism of some of his peers, Goff’s consistency and leadership are invaluable to the Lions’ success.
9. Baker Mayfield, Tampa Bay Buccaneers: The Resurgent Leader
Baker Mayfield’s career has taken a surprising turn for the better in Tampa Bay, where he has found stability and success with the Buccaneers. Mayfield’s strong arm and confident demeanor have revitalized the Tampa Bay offense, making them a force to be reckoned with in the NFC South.
10. Jordan Love, Green Bay Packers: The Emerging Talent
Jordan Love continued to develop into a promising quarterback for the Green Bay Packers. After a shaky start to his career as a starter, Love showcased his potential with improved accuracy and decision-making. As he gains more experience, Love has the potential to climb even higher in these rankings.
Rookies to Watch
The 2025 NFL Draft class of quarterbacks generated considerable buzz, with Cam Ward of the Tennessee Titans emerging as the frontrunner to lead all rookies in passing yards. Ward’s impressive college career and the Titans’ bolstered offensive line provide him with a solid foundation for success. Tyler Shough of the New Orleans Saints is also expected to make an impact, stepping in for the retired Derek Carr.
The Quarterback Carousel
The 2025 offseason saw several quarterbacks change teams, with varying degrees of success. Sam Darnold’s move to the Seattle Seahawks did not yield the same results as his previous stint with the Vikings, while Kenny Pickett and Joe Flacco in Cleveland struggled to find consistency.
The 2025 NFL season underscored the importance of quarterback play in determining a team’s success. While established stars like Josh Allen and Patrick Mahomes continued to shine, the emergence of new talents like Jayden Daniels and the resurgence of veterans like Baker Mayfield added intrigue and excitement to the league. As the NFL continues to evolve, the quarterback position will undoubtedly remain the focal point of attention and analysis.