Tom Brady, the indomitable quarterback who reigned supreme over the NFL for 23 years, continues to impact the game even in retirement. Over the weekend at Fanatics Fest, Brady shared what he believes to be the crème de la crème of quarterbacks currently lighting up the league. His insights came as no surprise, considering his impeccable eye for the game.
First on Brady's elite list is Kansas City's Patrick Mahomes. Recognized for his extraordinary arm talent and improvisational skills, Mahomes has redefined what it means to be a modern quarterback. Tom Brady has seen countless athletes come and go during his extensive career, but it’s clear Mahomes has set himself apart for his consistency and playmaking abilities.
Following Mahomes is Buffalo Bills' Josh Allen, who has become a powerhouse of a player in his own right. "I think, consistently, of all the guys I've seen, Josh Allen is someone who always impresses me as a player," Brady remarked. Allen's unique combination of size, athleticism, and rocket arm has made him one of the most feared players on the field.
Lamar Jackson of the Baltimore Ravens ranks third on Brady’s list. Known for his electrifying speed and agility, Jackson adds a dynamic element to the quarterback position that few have mastered. "I see Lamar Jackson, who always impresses me as a player," Brady commented, underscoring the high regard in which he holds Jackson's ability to turn games on their heads.
The fourth player on Brady's esteemed list is Joe Burrow of the Cincinnati Bengals. Burrow's poise under pressure and surgical precision in the pocket have earned him accolades early in his career. "Joe Burrow is really impressive the way he throws the ball," Brady said, acknowledging Burrow's technique and potential for growth. The young quarterback's capacity to lead and connect with his teammates has not gone unnoticed either. "Another guy who's got a great connection with his teammates," Brady added, emphasizing Burrow’s leadership qualities.
Rounding out the list is the Green Bay Packers' stalwart, Aaron Rodgers. Known for his cerebral approach to the game and uncanny ability to deliver in clutch moments, Rodgers’ inclusion in Brady’s top five pays tribute to his enduring excellence in the NFL.
However, Brady wasn’t the only legend weighing in at Fanatics Fest. Peyton Manning, another iconic quarterback with a storied career, offered his own unique perspective. His rankings aligned closely with Brady’s but with one notable exception: Manning included the Los Angeles Chargers' Justin Herbert in place of Aaron Rodgers. This divergence highlights the subjective nature of evaluating talent, even among the greats.
Both Brady and Manning have spent countless Sundays reading defenses, making split-second decisions, and navigating the complexities of professional football. Their opinions, therefore, are steeped in lived experience and battlefield wisdom, making their assessments particularly compelling. The players they highlight—Mahomes, Allen, Jackson, Burrow, Rodgers, and Herbert—are not just names on a list; they are torchbearers of the legacy Brady and Manning have helped build.
As these players continue to evolve and demonstrate their skills, their placement on these lists will undoubtedly serve as both motivation and a benchmark. For fans and analysts alike, the endorsements from Brady and Manning provide a lens through which to appreciate the modern era of quarterbacking. Their keen insights remind us that the sport we love remains in capable hands, continually shaped by those who push the boundaries of athleticism and strategy.