The NFL is a young man’s game—especially at quarterback, where rocket arms, quick feet, and (let’s be honest) a little bit of swagger define the league’s next generation.
With the old guard of Tom Brady (finally) retired, the league’s under-30 signal-callers are the real showstoppers. So let’s break it down—the best of the best, ranked with equal parts respect and a little well-placed snark.
13. Baker Mayfield, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Baker’s career has had more ups and downs than a roller coaster designed by a mad scientist. But credit where it’s due: he helped Tampa Bay stay relevant post-Brady, even if he still plays like every game is a Progressive commercial audition.
12. Tua Tagovailoa, Miami Dolphins
Tua can sling it, but durability concerns persist. He’s one of the most efficient passers in the league when upright, but if his protection crumbles, so does Miami’s offense. Also, Tyreek Hill makes everything look a lot easier.
11. Brock Purdy, San Francisco 49ers
Yes, he was Mr. Irrelevant. No, he is not a system QB (okay, maybe a little). But if being a system QB means playing in a Super Bowl, every other young quarterback should be begging for that label.
10. Kyler Murray, Arizona Cardinals
When he’s healthy, Kyler is a human joystick. When he’s not, the Cardinals are borderline unwatchable. The talent is undeniable, but the Cardinals’ current rebuild means he might have to wait a bit before he’s back in the playoff picture.
9. Jordan Love, Green Bay Packers
After years of sitting behind Aaron Rodgers (must’ve felt like forever), Love got his shot and—surprise!—he’s actually good. His late-season surge gave Packers fans reason to believe, but let’s not get ahead of ourselves. He still needs to prove himself on the big stage.
8. C.J. Stroud, Houston Texans
Young QBs aren’t supposed to look this polished. Stroud walked into Houston, put up MVP-caliber numbers, and made the Texans—a franchise known for pain and suffering—actually fun. Big things are coming.
7. Trevor Lawrence, Jacksonville Jaguars
The hair? Flawless. The talent? Undeniable. The Jaguars? Still a work in progress. Lawrence has shown flashes of superstardom, but the consistency needs to take another leap if he’s going to be the generational guy Jacksonville hopes he is.
6. Jalen Hurts, Philadelphia Eagles
Hurts is a walking cheat code, combining elite running ability with underrated passing. Not to mention, he just led the Eagles to a Super Bow victoryl. Not bad for a guy some scouts thought would be a career backup.
5. Jayden Daniels, Washington Commanders
Daniels’ rookie year was nothing short of spectacular. Not only did he put up great numbers, but he led the Commanders to the NFC Championship game. A dynamic dual-threat with pinpoint accuracy, he could be the future of the position—or at least the future of a Washington franchise that could use some excitement.
4. Justin Herbert, Los Angeles Chargers
Herbert is a highlight reel waiting to happen. Unfortunately, so are the Chargers—but for all the wrong reasons. If they ever figure out how to not collapse in spectacular fashion, he might actually win something meaningful.
3. Josh Allen, Buffalo Bills
Allen is a human highlight reel with the size of a tight end, the arm of a bazooka, and the decision-making of a mad scientist. At his best, he’s a top-three QB. At his worst, he’s throwing YOLO balls into triple coverage. Still, few are more exciting to watch.
Related: 10 Quarterbacks Who Were Carried By Their Defense
2. Lamar Jackson, Baltimore Ravens
Two MVPs, an electrifying playing style, and a never-ending debate over whether he’s a “real” quarterback (he is, by the way). Lamar is a one-man show who finally has some legit help. The sky’s the limit.
Related: Ranking the 14 Best Dual-Threat Quarterbacks in NFL History
1. Patrick Mahomes, Kansas City Chiefs
Come on. Who else? Mahomes is already a top-five all-time quarterback, and he’s only 29. Three Super Bowls, two MVPs, and an ability to make plays that defy reality. He’s playing 4D chess while the rest of the league is still figuring out checkers.
Related: The 15 Most Disappointing Quarterbacks of the 2024-25 NFL Season
