Yes, we know rankings are subjective. But sometimes, you just have to shake your head when reviewing some of those rankings.
Pro Football Network released its “quarterback power rankings” recently and, no surprise, Patrick Mahomes [Kansas City Chiefs] and Joe Burrow [Cincinnati Bengals] topped the list.
Predictable and correct. The rest of PFN’s top five isn’t necessarily controversial, although some would dispute the order [Josh Allen, Justin Herbert and Jalen Hurts.]
But at No. 6, things get uh…..interesting.
PFN ranks Dak Prescott [Dallas Cowboys] at No. 6. Even most Dallas fans would argue that ranking. Lamar Jackson and Trevor Lawrence come in at No. 7 and No. 8, respectively, followed by Tua Tagovailoa and Geno Smith to round out of the top 10.
Do you see a familiar name missing?
Yes, that’s right, PFN leaves Aaron Rodgers out of the top 10 at No. 11. Regardless of what you think of Rodgers or how he played last season, there’s no question, even at 39, he’s still one of the NFL’s top five quarterbacks. Leaving him out of the top 10? Criminal.
The #PFN365 QB Power Rankings are here❕
Which top-10 quarterback surprised you and who should be much higher❓ pic.twitter.com/geBfxBplBw
— Pro Football Network (@PFN365) June 29, 2023
Interestingly enough, Washington Commanders quarterback Jacoby Brissett, who is expected to back up Sam Howell in 2023 unless he overtakes him in training camp, is No. 20. No one would argue Brissett is better and more accomplished than Howell right now. But are we listing projected starters in these QB power rankings? Or just the top 32 quarterbacks? Regardless of that answer, Brissett at No. 20 feels about right.
Another interesting ranking was Deshaun Watson [Cleveland Browns] at No. 26. Remember, Brissett started in place of Watson during his suspension last season before moving to the bench when Watson returned. And just going by last year, Brissett was better than Watson.
But is Brissett actually better than Watson?
Desmond Ridder [Atlanta Falcons] was ranked No. 25. What has he accomplished in the NFL? He’s in the same boat as Howell or some of the rookies.
Two former Super Bowl champions, Matthew Stafford and Russell Wilson, were No. 27 and No. 28, respectively. It’s hard to dispute Wilson’s ranking based on last season.
So, Washington fans, what do you think about these QB rankings?