Top NFL Quarterbacks Ranked by Key Skills: Best Arm Strength, Precision, and Beyond

I frequently discuss the top quarterbacks in the NFL, ranking the best passers in the league each season. However, beyond overall rankings, it’s also essential to evaluate quarterbacks based on specific skills—who stands out in particular areas such as arm strength, accuracy, mechanics, decision-making, pocket presence, rushing ability, and improvisation.

For the second consecutive year, I’ve assessed these seven key skills to rank the NFL’s starting quarterbacks as we head into the 2025 season. My evaluations are based on their recent performances and film study, aiming to categorize quarterbacks by their strongest attributes. Let’s begin with the quarterbacks known for their powerful arms, though you can jump to other skill categories below.

Arm Strength Rankings:

1. Josh Allen (Bills)
2. Patrick Mahomes (Chiefs)
3. Justin Herbert (Chargers)
4. Lamar Jackson (Ravens)
5. Matthew Stafford (Rams)
6. Baker Mayfield (Buccaneers)
7. Joe Burrow (Bengals)
8. Caleb Williams (Bears)
9. Michael Penix Jr. (Falcons)
10. Jordan Love (Packers)

Arm strength here isn’t just about throwing deep passes but the ability to accurately and quickly drive the ball through tight windows 15-20 yards downfield. Josh Allen leads this category by a wide margin, showcasing a near-elite ability to deliver fast and precise throws under pressure. Other quarterbacks like Mahomes, Herbert, and Jackson form an elite group with impressive arm power and the capacity to throw from awkward body positions.

Ball Placement Rankings:

1. Joe Burrow (Bengals)
2. Jaden Daniels (Commanders)
3. Lamar Jackson (Ravens)
4. Josh Allen (Bills)
5. Patrick Mahomes (Chiefs)
6. Matthew Stafford (Rams)
7. Tua Tagovailoa (Dolphins)
8. Brock Purdy (49ers)
9. Baker Mayfield (Buccaneers)
10. Geno Smith (Raiders)

This skill focuses on the quarterback’s ability to consistently put the ball exactly where the receiver can maximize yards after catch, even in tough situations. Joe Burrow holds the gold standard for precision, maintaining a top completion rate and minimal targets outside the strike zone. Rookies like Jaden Daniels have displayed remarkable accuracy and vision, making a fast impact in this category.

Mechanics Rankings:

1. Joe Burrow (Bengals)
2. Jaden Daniels (Commanders)
3. Matthew Stafford (Rams)
4. Lamar Jackson (Ravens)
5. Josh Allen (Bills)
6. CJ Stroud (Texans)
7. Geno Smith (Raiders)
8. Dak Prescott (Cowboys)
9. Jared Goff (Lions)
10. Justin Herbert (Chargers)

Smooth, repeatable throwing motions, especially under pressure, define great mechanics. Burrow’s delivery is exceptionally consistent, making it challenging to read his throws. Strong mechanics help quarterbacks maintain rhythm and effectiveness even when their pocket collapses.

Decision-Making Rankings:

1. Joe Burrow (Bengals)
2. Josh Allen (Bills)
3. Lamar Jackson (Ravens)
4. Jaden Daniels (Commanders)
5. Patrick Mahomes (Chiefs)
6. Matthew Stafford (Rams)
7. Justin Herbert (Chargers)
8. Tua Tagovailoa (Dolphins)
9. Jalen Hurts (Eagles)
10. Russell Wilson (Broncos)

The ability to make the right choices quickly, both in ideal circumstances and under duress, is key. Burrow excels here, complemented closely by Allen and Jackson. These quarterbacks avoid risky throws and capitalize on open receivers, reflected in their low interception rates.

Pocket Presence Rankings:

1. Joe Burrow (Bengals)
2. Lamar Jackson (Ravens)
3. Patrick Mahomes (Chiefs)
4. CJ Stroud (Texans)
5. Brock Purdy (49ers)
6. Josh Allen (Bills)
7. Geno Smith (Raiders)
8. Baker Mayfield (Buccaneers)
9. Bryce Young (Panthers)
10. Jaden Daniels (Commanders)

Pocket presence involves a quarterback’s ability to remain calm, navigate pressure, and make clean throws from tight spaces. Burrow leads again with his efficient pocket movement, and Jackson uses creativity to elude rushers in his unique style.

Rushing Ability Rankings:

1. Lamar Jackson (Ravens)
2. Jalen Hurts (Eagles)
3. Josh Allen (Bills)
4. Jaden Daniels (Commanders)
5. Justin Fields (Jets)
6. Patrick Mahomes (Chiefs)
7. Kyler Murray (Cardinals)
8. Justin Herbert (Chargers)
9. Brock Purdy (49ers)
10. Caleb Williams (Bears)

Modern quarterbacks who can run effectively add a vital dimension to offenses. Jackson stands out with elite speed and the ability to turn scrambles into big plays. Hurts and Allen also provide significant yardage and touchdowns on the ground.

Second-Reaction Ability Rankings:

1. Lamar Jackson (Ravens)
2. Patrick Mahomes (Chiefs)
3. Josh Allen (Bills)
4. Jaden Daniels (Commanders)
5. Jalen Hurts (Eagles)
6. Kyler Murray (Cardinals)
7. Joe Burrow (Bengals)
8. Caleb Williams (Bears)
9. Mac Jones (Patriots)
10. Russell Wilson (Broncos)

This skill reflects a quarterback’s creativity and ability to adapt when plays break down. Jackson and Mahomes are at the top, excelling at making throws and escapes outside the pocket. Young quarterbacks like Daniels and Williams show impressive potential here, highlighting a new generation of playmakers.

Fan Take: This detailed breakdown gives NFL fans deeper insight into what makes elite quarterbacks truly great beyond just stats or wins. Understanding these distinct skills not only enriches watching the game but also helps predict which QBs could shape the future of the sport with innovation and versatility.