Peyton Manning Reveals His Top 5 Current NFL Quarterbacks at Fanatics Fest 2024
By Cory Woodroof | August 20, 2024
NEW YORK, NY — Few figures in NFL history command the same level of respect and authority when discussing quarterback play as Peyton Manning. A five-time NFL MVP, two-time Super Bowl champion, and a first-ballot Hall of Famer, Manning’s football IQ and legacy as one of the greatest quarterbacks of all time remain unmatched. So, when he speaks, especially on the subject of quarterbacks, the football world listens.
At the Fanatics Fest NYC 2024, held at the Jacob Javits Center in New York City this past weekend, Manning took the stage in front of an excited crowd to share insight into the game, his career, and his thoughts on the current state of the NFL. During a panel that quickly gained traction across social media, Manning unveiled his personal list of the top five quarterbacks in the NFL today.
The reveal, though not shocking, served as a moment of recognition for the current torchbearers of the league and provided fans and analysts alike with another data point in the never-ending debate over quarterback supremacy.
Let’s dive into the list, the rationale behind it, and the reactions from across the league.
Peyton Manning’s Top 5 NFL Quarterbacks (as of August 2024)
- Patrick Mahomes – Kansas City Chiefs
- Joe Burrow – Cincinnati Bengals
- Justin Herbert – Los Angeles Chargers
- Lamar Jackson – Baltimore Ravens
- Josh Allen – Buffalo Bills
Patrick Mahomes: The Undisputed King
It’s no surprise that Kansas City Chiefs superstar Patrick Mahomes headlines Manning’s list. Mahomes has redefined the quarterback position since entering the league, showcasing a blend of arm strength, mobility, poise, and improvisational brilliance that continues to baffle defenses.
With three Super Bowl titles, two MVP awards, and a highlight reel that seems to expand every Sunday, Mahomes has firmly cemented himself not only as the best current quarterback but arguably as a generational talent on track for all-time greatness.
“Mahomes is the standard,” Manning told the crowd. “What he’s accomplished already — it’s Hall of Fame-worthy, and he’s just getting started.”
Joe Burrow: The Cool Commander
Next on Manning’s list is Joe Burrow, the Cincinnati Bengals’ stoic field general. Burrow’s rapid rise since recovering from an ACL injury in his rookie year has been nothing short of phenomenal. He led the Bengals to a Super Bowl appearance in just his second full season and has developed into one of the league’s most accurate and intelligent passers.
Burrow’s mental processing and pocket presence draw comparisons to the likes of Tom Brady and, not coincidentally, Manning himself.
“What impresses me about Joe is his calmness,” Manning said. “You feel like he’s in control on every snap — that’s rare.”
Justin Herbert: The Arm Talent Marvel
Justin Herbert has yet to reach the same postseason success as Mahomes or Burrow, but in terms of raw talent, few come close. The Los Angeles Chargers’ star boasts one of the most powerful and precise arms in the NFL. His ability to make throws to every part of the field with seemingly effortless motion continues to captivate fans and frustrate defensive coordinators.
Despite a coaching carousel and occasional inconsistency around him, Herbert’s individual brilliance has kept the Chargers competitive and exciting.
“Justin’s a technician with a cannon,” Manning noted. “His arm strength, combined with his intelligence, gives him a high ceiling. He’s only scratching the surface.”
Lamar Jackson: The Dynamic Dual-Threat
Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson remains one of the league’s most polarizing but undeniably electrifying players. A former NFL MVP (2019), Jackson has reshaped the quarterback position with his unique ability to dominate both as a runner and a passer. In recent years, he’s worked to improve his pocket passing and leadership, culminating in another stellar campaign in 2023 that solidified his standing as a top-tier quarterback.
Manning praised Jackson not just for his athleticism but for his evolution as a complete quarterback.
“Lamar’s growth has been impressive,” Manning said. “He’s still the most dangerous player on the field when the play breaks down, but now he’s winning from the pocket too. That’s maturity.”
Josh Allen: The Fierce Competitor
Rounding out the list is Josh Allen of the Buffalo Bills. Known for his cannon arm, bulldozing runs, and fearless style, Allen has become the heart and soul of the Bills’ franchise. While he has yet to lead Buffalo to a Super Bowl, his performances in the postseason — particularly his legendary shootout against Mahomes in the 2021 playoffs — have solidified his status as one of the league’s elite.
“Josh has all the tools — size, strength, and a competitive fire that’s hard to teach,” Manning said. “You can build a franchise around that kind of leadership.”
Why This List Matters
Manning’s list is not just another subjective ranking. Coming from one of the most cerebral quarterbacks in NFL history, it reflects a thoughtful analysis of each player’s impact on the game today. It’s also a celebration of how the position has evolved — from traditional pocket passers to multidimensional playmakers.
Interestingly, Manning’s list omits some big names, including Jalen Hurts, Dak Prescott, Tua Tagovailoa, and Trevor Lawrence, all of whom have shown flashes of elite play but either lack the longevity, consistency, or postseason success (so far) to break into the top five.
Fan and Player Reactions
The reaction to Manning’s list was swift and widespread. Fans took to social media to both praise and debate the rankings. Many agreed that Mahomes and Burrow were locks, while others argued that players like Hurts or even rookie sensation Caleb Williams deserved consideration.
Former players also chimed in. Hall of Fame QB Kurt Warner tweeted, “Love Peyton’s list. Hard to argue with greatness recognizing greatness.”
Meanwhile, wide receiver Stefon Diggs, who played with Josh Allen in Buffalo, quote-tweeted the rankings with a fire emoji and a simple, “#17 that guy.”
Looking Ahead: The Quarterback Landscape in 2025 and Beyond
As the NFL enters the 2025 season, the quarterback position remains as crucial as ever — and perhaps more dynamic than in any previous era. Manning’s top five list reflects a generation of players who combine the physical tools of past greats with new-age creativity and versatility.
Whether it’s Mahomes’ no-look passes, Jackson’s jaw-dropping scrambles, or Burrow’s pre-snap wizardry, each of these quarterbacks brings something special to the game.
For fans, analysts, and future Hall of Famers like Manning, it’s a golden age to watch the position evolve — and the best may still be yet to come.
Conclusion
Peyton Manning’s quarterback rankings at Fanatics Fest weren’t just a fun exercise in opinion. They were a rare peek into how one of the greatest football minds evaluates the stars of today. With the 2025 season approaching and the next wave of quarterback talent — including Caleb Williams, Drake Maye, and Shedeur Sanders — entering the league, it will be fascinating to see how this list evolves in the years to come.
One thing’s for sure: If Peyton Manning thinks you’re one of the top five quarterbacks in the NFL, you’ve earned that distinction.
