Patrick Mahomes finished second in ESPN’s annual quarterback rankings for 2026, trailing only Josh Allen, as Matthew Stafford’s MVP season landed him in third place.
What happened?
ESPN’s annual quarterback rankings—compiled from league-wide votes by coaches, scouts and executives—dropped Monday. Allen took the top spot, with Mahomes close behind in second. Stafford, the reigning NFL MVP, ranked third despite leading the Los Angeles Rams to the NFC Championship.
Stafford earned 17% of first-place votes. He became just the fourth QB in league history to throw at least 45 touchdowns and fewer than 10 interceptions in a single season (46 TDs, 8 INTs). The others: Aaron Rodgers (2020, 2021) and Tom Brady (2007).
Why it matters for Patrick Mahomes
Mahomes’ second-place finish underscores his standing as the league’s elite signal-caller. Allen’s top ranking reflects Buffalo’s explosive offense and his own MVP-level play. Both remain the faces of the AFC’s next wave.
Stafford’s rise—from fringe top-half voter to top-three QB—highlights the depth of elite arms in the NFL. His 4,707 yards and 46 TDs in 2025 redefined his career arc.
What comes next?
Training camp for the Rams opens July 25 at Loyola Marymount University. The first open practice for fans follows on July 27.
Stafford, now in his late 30s, aims to replicate his MVP form in 2026. One NFL head coach put it plainly: “Nobody played better than him last year, and it wasn’t even close.”
The Chiefs, meanwhile, will look to Mahomes to extend their AFC dominance. Both teams are built to contend—again.