Joe Burrow has been ranked fourth in ESPN's 2026 top 10 NFL quarterback list, falling out of the top three for the first time in three years. The Cincinnati Bengals QB received high praise for his pocket movement and decision-making but faced criticism over injury concerns.
What did the rankings show?
ESPN's annual quarterback rankings, voted on by NFL executives, coaches, and scouts, placed Josh Allen first, followed by Patrick Mahomes and Matthew Stafford. Burrow, who was second in 2024 and third in 2025, dropped to fourth this year. His highest ranking from a voter was first, while the lowest was sixth.
Why did Burrow's ranking drop?
Durability concerns were the main reason for Burrow's lower ranking. He played just eight games in 2025 after a Week 2 toe injury required surgery. He also missed time in 2023-24 with a wrist injury and suffered a torn ACL and MCL in his rookie year. Despite this, one evaluator called him the closest to Tom Brady's game.
What did voters say about Burrow?
An NFL coordinator praised Burrow's system-like play, saying, 'Burrow doesn't play in a system. He is the system.' Another evaluator highlighted his pocket movement and accelerated vision as the best in the NFL. His last fully healthy season was 2024-25, when he threw for 4,918 yards and 43 touchdowns.
What's next for Burrow?
The Bengals will look to Burrow to stay healthy in 2026 and prove he can maintain his elite play. With Lamar Jackson ranked fifth, just behind him, Burrow will aim to climb back into the top three next season.