Patrick Mahomes beat out by Josh Allen for top QB in annual survey
Josh Allen dethrones Patrick Mahomes as NFL’s top QB in two major rankings—sparking debate over the league’s new elite
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The brief
Josh Allen has been named the NFL’s top quarterback in two separate annual surveys, according to ESPN and the Associated Press. The rankings mark the first time Mahomes, previously the consensus No. 1, has been overtaken in these polls. Coverage highlights Allen’s dominance as ‘the most singularly unstoppable player at the position,’ while some NFL coaches and executives now describe Mahomes as no longer the best at his position.
Outlets including *Buffalo Rumblings*, *Yahoo Sports*, and *Fox News* are emphasizing the shift, framing it as a reflection of Allen’s sustained performance and Mahomes’ relative decline. ESPN and AP rankings carry weight in NFL discourse, often shaping narratives around player value and team strategy. Next steps will likely focus on how teams assess Allen’s market value and whether Mahomes’ stock drops further in free agency or contract negotiations.
Coverage may also explore whether this shift signals a broader realignment in quarterback hierarchies, particularly as the 2026 season progresses. The Bills’ defense of Allen’s ranking could also influence fan and media perceptions of his leadership role in the franchise.
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Quick answers
Which outlets conducted the rankings?
ESPN and the Associated Press (AP) released the surveys, with results reported by *Buffalo Rumblings*, *Yahoo Sports*, *Fox News*, and others.
Does this mean Mahomes is no longer considered elite?
Coverage suggests Mahomes is no longer ranked No. 1 in these specific surveys, but some NFL coaches and executives have also publicly stated he is no longer the best QB in the league.
Will this affect contract negotiations or free agency?
The rankings could influence perceptions of player value, but no direct impact on contracts or free agency has been stated in current coverage.
Coverage (5)
- Josh Allen voted the No. 1 in ESPN’s Top 10 quarterback rankings Buffalo Rumblings · 10h ago
- Josh Allen is voted the NFL's top quarterback by AP writers Yahoo Sports · 10h ago
- Josh Allen ranked No. 1 QB by ESPN for 2026: "The most singularly unstoppable player at the position" Buffalo Bills · 10h ago
- NFL coaches and executives say Patrick Mahomes is no longer the best quarterback in the NFL Fox News · 10h ago
- Patrick Mahomes beat out by Josh Allen for top QB in annual survey Arrowhead Pride · 10h ago
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