2025 NFL QB Power Rankings: Mahomes Still on Top, But Who’s Challenging for the Throne?

2025 NFL QB Power Rankings: Mahomes Still on Top, But Who’s Challenging for the Throne?

Patrick Mahomes of the Kansas City Chiefs remains the undisputed king of NFL quarterbacks as we head into the 2025 season. Fresh off another Super Bowl appearance, though a loss to the Philadelphia Eagles, Mahomes continues to defy expectations with his incredible arm talent, improvisational skills, and leadership. However, the landscape of the NFL is ever-changing, and a new crop of signal-callers are nipping at his heels, eager to claim the throne.

The Reigning Champion: Patrick Mahomes

It’s hard to argue against Mahomes’ dominance. In 2024, the Chiefs went 15-2 in the regular season, showcasing Mahomes’ ability to lead his team to victory even when facing adversity. While his statistical output in 2024 didn’t quite reach the heights of his earlier seasons, his ability to make clutch plays and elevate the performance of those around him remains unmatched.

However, some analysts suggest that Mahomes’ reign might be showing slight cracks. His total EPA (expected points added) dropped from 213.2 in 2022 to 78 in 2024, and his completion percentage over expected also declined. Some point to the loss of key offensive weapons and increased sack percentage as contributing factors. Despite these concerns, Mahomes remains the top-ranked quarterback, a position he has held for the past five years.

Mahomes himself acknowledges the need for a more explosive offense in 2025. He has expressed a desire to push the ball downfield and into tighter windows, signaling a return to the Chiefs’ notorious downfield attack. With a healthy supporting cast, including Xavier Worthy and Travis Kelce, Mahomes is poised to silence any doubters and reassert his dominance.

The Contenders: Who Can Dethrone the King?

While Mahomes sits atop the throne, several quarterbacks are making a strong case to challenge his reign. Here are some of the top contenders:

  • Josh Allen (Buffalo Bills): Allen is coming off an MVP-winning 2024 season and is widely considered one of the most physically gifted quarterbacks in the league. His combination of arm strength, mobility, and sheer determination makes him a constant threat. Allen’s ability to make plays with both his arm and legs makes him a nightmare for opposing defenses. In 2024, Allen had over 40 total touchdowns for the fifth consecutive season. The Bills have also added weapons to the passing attack with the additions of Elijah Moore and Joshua Palmer. Some analysts even argue that Allen is primed to outplay Mahomes and lead the Bills to the Super Bowl in 2025.

  • Lamar Jackson (Baltimore Ravens): Jackson is a two-time MVP who continues to evolve as a passer. In 2024, he set career highs in passing yards (4,172), touchdown passes (41), and yards per attempt (8.8). Jackson’s dual-threat ability makes him incredibly difficult to defend, and the Ravens have surrounded him with a talented supporting cast, including Derrick Henry, Zay Flowers, and DeAndre Hopkins. Jackson’s ability to make the right reads and consistently hit his receivers in stride has earned him praise as one of the league’s elite quarterbacks.

  • Joe Burrow (Cincinnati Bengals): Burrow is known for his exceptional accuracy, football IQ, and pocket presence. He has a knack for making the right decisions under pressure and consistently delivers the ball to his receivers with precision. In 2024, Burrow led the league with 43 touchdown passes. He also completed his next nine throws, including two touchdowns. Burrow’s preseason debut against the Philadelphia Eagles was impressive, completing 9 of 10 passes for 122 yards and two touchdowns.

  • Justin Herbert (Los Angeles Chargers): Herbert possesses a rare combination of size, arm strength, and athleticism. He has the potential to be an elite quarterback. In his first preseason action in his six-year career, Herbert led a scoring drive, completing two passes for 46 yards. The Chargers have added playmakers around him, setting the stage for a breakout season in 2025.

The Next Generation: Young Guns on the Rise

Beyond the established stars, a new wave of young quarterbacks is emerging, eager to make their mark on the league. These players may not be ready to challenge for the throne just yet, but they possess the talent and potential to become future contenders:

  • Jayden Daniels (Washington Commanders): Daniels exploded onto the scene as a rookie, showcasing his poise, athleticism, and ability to make plays under pressure. The Commanders have added more weapons and protection for him in 2025, signaling their commitment to building around their young quarterback.

  • Bo Nix (Denver Broncos): Nix’s polished and impactful debut in Denver helped the Broncos join the Chiefs and Chargers in the postseason, giving the division three playoff teams.

The Ever-Shifting Landscape

The NFL is a league of constant change, and the quarterback landscape is no exception. Injuries, trades, and the emergence of new talent can quickly alter the balance of power. As we look ahead to the 2025 season, one thing is certain: Patrick Mahomes will face a stiff challenge from a hungry group of quarterbacks eager to claim his throne. Whether he can maintain his dominance or a new king will be crowned remains to be seen.