Josh Allen's ESPN ranking feels like a gut punch (but they got it right)

According to ESPN's latest NFL quarterback rankings compiled from executives, coaches, and scouts, Josh Allen is universally regarded as one of the league's elite quarterbacks, with the author strongly arguing he surpasses Patrick Mahomes, Lamar Jackson, and Joe Burrow despite some debate about Jackson.

Allen, who signed a new six-year contract, aims to lead the Buffalo Bills to their first Super Bowl appearance and franchise Lombardi Trophy after a record-breaking 2024 season where he made significant history for both the team and the NFL.

The primary obstacle highlighted for Allen is defeating the Kansas City Chiefs in the playoffs, as Buffalo has lost four of their last five postseason matchups against them. The author contends these losses stem from defensive failures rather than Allen's performance.

While Bills fans consider Allen superior to Mahomes overall, Mahomes' championship success places him ahead in perception until Allen can overcome him in the playoffs. This dynamic is reflected in ESPN's 2025 rankings where Mahomes secured the top spot and Allen landed at No. 2.

The author emphasizes that Allen's lack of Super Bowl experience shouldn't detract from his individual excellence, reiterating that playoff shortcomings are primarily due to defensive shortcomings against Mahomes' Chiefs.

The piece concludes with fan optimism that Allen will eventually conquer Kansas City and deliver Buffalo's long-awaited Super Bowl victory.