Josh Allen Tops Patrick Mahomes in Latest NFL Survey
Patrick Mahomes no longer holds the title of the best quarterback in the NFL, according to a new survey conducted by ESPN involving NFL executives, coaches, and scouts. The annual poll now places Josh Allen of the Buffalo Bills at the top. Despite a tough contest for votes, Allen managed to clinch the position through a strong average ranking of 2.10 per ballot. Although his first-place voting percentage was 34.1%, slightly lower than Mahomes’ 41.5%, Allen prevailed due to his consistent performance.
Jeremy Fowler of ESPN noted that an NFL general manager highlighted why Allen deserves the top spot, emphasizing Allen’s unique achievement of being the only player in NFL history with at least 200 passing touchdowns and 50 rushing touchdowns.
Mahomes, who was first a year ago, is now second in the rankings. He is followed by Matthew Stafford, Joe Burrow, and Lamar Jackson in the top five. Recently, Allen greeted Mahomes after the Bills defeated the Chiefs 30-21 at Highmark Stadium in Orchard Park, N.Y., on November 17, 2024.
Allen’s rise over Mahomes might provoke some critics, as Allen has historically not beaten Mahomes in playoffs, and he holds three fewer Super Bowl titles. Mahomes’ legacy stands strong as one of the greatest quarterbacks in NFL history, whereas Allen is often seen further down the list. However, this survey evaluates who is the best quarterback right now, and by current standards, Allen’s case is strong.
Comparison Between Allen and Mahomes
From 2023 through 2025, Josh Allen accumulated 11,705 passing yards, 82 passing touchdowns, and 34 interceptions with a 98.6 passer rating. Patrick Mahomes, during the same period, had slightly fewer passing yards at 11,698, with 75 passing touchdowns and 36 interceptions resulting in a 91.9 passer rating.
Allen shows slightly better productivity and efficiency in passing. The difference might be small, but it is noteworthy. Allen also excels in rushing, scoring 41 touchdowns compared to Mahomes’ seven, giving Allen a total of 123 touchdowns to Mahomes’ 82 during these seasons.
This situation mirrors early comparisons between Tom Brady and Peyton Manning: Mahomes has more rings, but Allen performs better weekly.
Factors Influencing Performance
Supporters of Mahomes argue about the difference in team support. Allen benefits from a strong running game and a superior offensive line ranked third by Sharp Football Analysis, while Mahomes’ team ranked 23rd in this area. Bills’ running back James Cook, for instance, outrushed the Chiefs’ leader, Kareem Hunt.
Conversely, Mahomes benefits from being led by Andy Reid, a renowned head coach, and Brett Veach, a top general manager.
The discourse about Allen differs among media analysts, with some labeling him overrated or privileged. Critics like Ryan Clark and others argue Allen must compete with Jackson before comparing to Mahomes.
However, those who assess professional football devoid of media sensationalism confirm Allen belongs in the same league as Mahomes. As of the 2026 season, they consider him slightly better.
For now, Josh Allen is perceived as the best in the NFL. Nonetheless, Mahomes might still have a comeback after his recent injury.
Written by Bobby Burack for OutKick.