The competition for the title of the NFL's best quarterback has reached a new level of intensity. With standout performances, injuries, and evolving team dynamics, the landscape looks incredibly diverse as we prepare for the 2026 season. Colin Cowherd recently shared his ranking of the top 10 quarterbacks on "The Herd," spotlighting various players who have significantly impacted the league.
Emerging Stars: Maye and Williams
Among the noteworthy young talents, Drake Maye catches attention as he has shattered records in his early career. Cowherd emphasizes Maye's historic achievement of completing over 70% of his passes and exceeding 4,000 yards before turning 25. Despite playing behind a subpar offensive line and an underwhelming running game, Maye's accuracy stood out as the league's best last season, leading his team to the Super Bowl—a feat few anticipated.
Caleb Williams, another rising star, draws Cowherd's praise as well, although he recognizes the limitations in their current offensive systems. It remains to be seen how these young quarterbacks will evolve, but their potential can't be dismissed.
The Underrated Talent: Jordan Love
Cowherd also highlights Jordan Love's status as one of the league's most underrated players. Known for his blend of intelligence, arm strength, and resilience, Love has had his struggles, particularly during September. With a 60% completion rate in that month, questions surround his early-season play. However, his durability and growth potential suggest he could become a prominent figure in the league.
Jared Goff’s Defensive Protection
Jared Goff emerges as a curious case. Following a change in coordinators, consistency in his performance remains a question—his success heavily relies on offensive line protection. Cowherd notes that Goff leads the NFL in several categories over the last three seasons, but expects more from him to capitalize on his undeniable talent.
Veteran Ambitions: Matthew Stafford
The seasoned Matthew Stafford retains relevance despite his age, recently winning his first MVP award. Cowherd points to Stafford's efficient and attractive passing style, even as questions linger concerning his physical endurance for the upcoming season. His experience likely continues to benefit his teammates as they strategize for the games ahead.
Durability Issues in Elite Quarterbacks
While Joe Burrow is revered for his precision and clutch performance, Cowherd raises concerns about his injury record, citing two out of three seasons marred by significant health setbacks. Burrow remains a leader in completion percentage, but the support around him must improve to elevate his game further. His long-term viability is still under scrutiny as the Bengals seek to bolster their offensive line.
Justin Herbert’s New Coaching Dynamics
Justin Herbert's situation is slightly more promising with the addition of offensive savant Mike McDaniel. Last year, Herbert led a playoff-bound team despite a struggling offensive line, showcasing his resilience. As he adapts to new coaching strategies, observers are eager to see how his performance will shape up this season.
The Proven Dynamics of Patrick Mahomes
Despite setbacks, Patrick Mahomes remains a kingpin in these discussions. Cowherd emphasizes his remarkable ability to engineer comebacks, drawing parallels to John Elway’s legacy. With notable stats that reflect his capability to win even when trailing, Mahomes's potential return to top form remains a central topic for the coming season.
Josh Allen: A Force in His Prime
Finally, no conversation about elite quarterbacks would be complete without mentioning Josh Allen. Highlighted as a force of nature, Allen's consistency in securing playoff victories bolsters his case as one of the league’s best, even in challenging circumstances. Cowherd argues that while Allen hasn't yet enjoyed the organizational support that Mahomes has, he possesses the physical prowess and tenacity to dominate the field.
As we head into the 2026 season, the quarterback debate is more lively than ever. With a mix of emerging talent and battle-tested veterans, time will tell who rises to the top in this ever-competitive NFL.
