2024 NFL Quarterback Tiers: Ranking the Best and Worst

As the NFL season approaches, the excitement of ranking quarterbacks is in full swing. This list categorizes quarterbacks into tiers rather than providing a straightforward ranking. The aim is to highlight potential and performance, not just rank based on current ability. Let’s take a look at my 2024 NFL Quarterback Tiers: Ranking the Best and Worst.

Tier 1: The Big Three

Patrick Mahomes, Lamar Jackson, Josh Allen

Patrick Mahomes stands in a league of his own, a “One of One” due to his back-to-back Super Bowl victories and unmatched talent. He continues to redefine the quarterback position with his arm strength, mobility, and playmaking ability. Joining him in this tier are Lamar Jackson and Josh Allen.

Jackson’s second MVP has silenced critics and solidified his status among the elite. His dual-threat capabilities make him a unique and formidable opponent.

Allen, despite another year falling short of the Super Bowl, remains a top contender with his strong arm and physical playstyle. The departure of Stefon Diggs will test his ability to excel without his top receiver, but Allen has shown he can adapt and lead his team under pressure.

Tier 2: Potential Future Elites

Joe Burrow, C.J. Stroud, Jordan Love

Joe Burrow has the potential to rejoin the top tier if he can stay healthy for an entire season. His leadership and precision passing have already taken the Bengals to new heights, and a full season without injuries could see him ascend even further.

C.J. Stroud’s rookie season was nothing short of spectacular, and the Texans have bolstered their lineup to support him, adding weapons like Stefon Diggs. If Stroud can replicate or improve on his first-year performance, he could solidify his place among the elite.

Jordan Love is the wild card here. While he hasn’t yet proven he’s among the NFL’s best, his late-season performances showed enough promise to suggest he could make a significant leap. The Packers’ third consecutive franchise quarterback has all the tools and a supportive environment to develop into a top-tier player.

Tier 3: High-Level Starters with Upside

Matthew Stafford, Jared Goff, Brock Purdy, Justin Herbert, Dak Prescott, Jalen Hurts

Matthew Stafford remains a high-caliber player, especially when healthy. With the Rams, he has displayed some of the best football of his career and seems poised for another strong season. The Rams’ offense, led by Stafford, has the potential to be explosive with a healthy Cooper Kupp and a reinforced offensive line.

Jared Goff, now with the Detroit Lions, is a legitimate MVP contender. Playing most of his games indoors, behind one of the best offensive lines in football, and with a cadre of young weapons, Goff is set up for success.

Brock Purdy, once dismissed as a game manager, emerged as a legitimate MVP candidate. As the last pick in the draft, his rise has been meteoric, and his potential is still unfolding. With the right development, Purdy could lead the 49ers to a Super Bowl victory.

Justin Herbert, now under Jim Harbaugh, faces a new system but stands to benefit from a run-heavy approach. Herbert’s efficiency could improve, leading to more wins for the Chargers, even if his stats take a hit.

Dak Prescott had his best season yet under Mike McCarthy’s play-calling, with CeeDee Lamb emerging as a top receiver. The Cowboys are poised either to excel spectacularly or buckle under the pressure.

Jalen Hurts, despite a down year, remains a high-potential quarterback. The Eagles’ new offensive coordinator, Kellen Moore, will work to reignite the passing game that took the team to the Super Bowl two years ago.

Tier 4: Intriguing Talent with Question Marks

Trevor Lawrence, Aaron Rodgers, Tua Tagovailoa, Anthony Richardson, Will Levis, Kyler Murray

Trevor Lawrence received a hefty contract and now must justify it with a standout 2024 season. Despite a step-back year, he has the potential to ascend closer to the second tier.

Aaron Rodgers’ return from an Achilles injury at 40 raises significant questions about his ability to return to form.

Tua Tagovailoa, while talented, still has to prove himself in critical moments and earn the Dolphins’ full trust.

Anthony Richardson showed promise as a rookie, but injuries limited his time on the field. If he can stay healthy, he could develop into a top-tier quarterback.

Will Levis, with new coaching and weapons, could either rise significantly or remain an enigma.

Kyler Murray, who faced criticism last year, has the Cardinals’ commitment and a chance to shine with new additions like Marvin Harrison Jr.

Tier 5: Capable but Limited

Baker Mayfield, Geno Smith, Kirk Cousins, Derek Carr, Gardner Minshew

Baker Mayfield’s steady presence in Tampa Bay marks an improvement from his uncertain past. With familiar faces like Mike Evans and Chris Godwin, and working again with Liam Cohen, Mayfield is set for a strong season.

Kirk Cousins, despite an Achilles injury and a new team, has potential under Zac Robinson’s system with Atlanta’s offensive weapons.

Geno Smith and Derek Carr remain reliable but limited fixtures. Smith has a talented Seahawks offense to work with, while Carr could benefit from a new coordinator in New Orleans.

Gardner Minshew, after an impressive stint filling in for Anthony Richardson, now leads the Las Vegas Raiders. He faces a tough division, but his potential to lead the team is significant.

Tier 6: Pressure Is On

Bryce Young, Deshaun Watson, Russell Wilson, Daniel Jones

Bryce Young faces high expectations in his second year with Carolina. The pressure is on the former No. 1 overall pick to show significant improvement behind a revamped offensive line and with new weapons.

Deshaun Watson has been underwhelming for the Browns, and another poor season could cement his acquisition as one of the worst trades in NFL history. Despite his guaranteed contract, Watson needs to prove his worth.

Russell Wilson, playing for the Steelers on a vet minimum contract, seeks redemption after a disastrous stint with the Broncos.

Daniel Jones, under contract scrutiny, needs to replicate his 2022 performance to secure his future with the Giants. If he struggles again, the Giants could move on from him after this season.

Tier 7: The Rookies

Caleb Williams, Jayden Daniels, Drake Maye, Bo Nix, J.J. McCarthy

The rookies are a wildcard. Caleb Williams, Jayden Daniels, Drake Maye, Bo Nix, and J.J. McCarthy have the potential to either thrive or struggle. Their performance will be closely watched, but it’s too early to make definitive judgments. They are placed in their own tier to acknowledge their fresh start and the uncertainty that comes with it. Their development will be a significant storyline throughout the season.

This tiered ranking highlights the diversity in talent and potential among NFL quarterbacks. As the season unfolds, these categories will evolve, reflecting the dynamic nature of the sport.