4. Joe Burrow, Cincinnati Bengals

Highest ranking: 1 | Lowest ranking: 6
Age: 29 | Last year's ranking: 3

Burrow's durability concerns pushed him out of the top three, where he resided the past two seasons. Several voters took him out of the top five due to his 16 games missed since 2023. When it comes to pure quarterback play, though, Burrow is still considered the closest resemblance to Brady's game.

"Best pocket movement in the league, accelerated vision best in the league," said an NFL personnel evaluator, the latter point referencing Burrow's processing speed at the line of scrimmage or post-snap. "Not big or fast, slightly above-average arm, but the other stuff makes him go."

An NFL coordinator took it a step further: "Burrow doesn't play in a system. He is the system," the coordinator said. "He's the whole thing."

Sure, he has an advantage many other QBs don't enjoy: two elite receivers in Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins. And some voters argue that Burrow doesn't wreck a game like some of the dual-threat quarterbacks. But as one veteran NFL defensive coach pointed out, he might be the most frustrating quarterback to play against because of his mind.

"Such a quick decision-maker," an NFL coordinator said. "The ball is out. That ball is OUT. It's so frustrating. And when it isn't out, he's just waiting for a deep ball to develop. He's got accuracy, arm strength -- a winner."

Burrow's 16 games with at least 300 passing yards and three passing touchdowns over the past five seasons are two more than any other quarterback.

Cincinnati Bengals: Amarius Mims, OT

Those paying attention might say Mims already broke out last year as he didn’t allow a hit or sack of Joe Burrow from the moment the QB returned to the lineup on Thanksgiving through the conclusion of the season. The 6-7, 340-pound raw first-round pick out of Georgia in 2024 officially has matured. He looks ready to play at an All-Pro level this year. He’s quickly become the anchor of an offensive line that’s far better than previous editions and has continuity next to him at right guard with Dalton Risner. Bet on Mims to be the next well-compensated star on this offense. — Paul Dehner Jr.

On 7/10/2026 at 9:03 PM, T-Dub said:

gets all star treatment for playing like an average joe - what's not to love?

Hey! That’s a franchise left tackle!

Wait, let me re-state: that’s a left tackle playing for an NFL franchise. Yeah… that’s better.

Look at our 350 lb bear dance ! 🐻

Uhh...isn't Open In Orange a little obvious lol

On 7/13/2026 at 1:51 PM, Griever said:

Cincinnati Bengals: Amarius Mims, OT

Those paying attention might say Mims already broke out last year as he didn’t allow a hit or sack of Joe Burrow from the moment the QB returned to the lineup on Thanksgiving through the conclusion of the season. The 6-7, 340-pound raw first-round pick out of Georgia in 2024 officially has matured. He looks ready to play at an All-Pro level this year. He’s quickly become the anchor of an offensive line that’s far better than previous editions and has continuity next to him at right guard with Dalton Risner. Bet on Mims to be the next well-compensated star on this offense. — Paul Dehner Jr.

On 7/13/2026 at 9:02 AM, Griever said:

Ihf his talent can match his heart to protect The Chosen one he'll do just fine..

8 hours ago, texbengal said:

Hey! That’s a franchise left tackle!

Wait, let me re-state: that’s a left tackle playing for an NFL franchise. Yeah… that’s better.

😆

exactly dude

2 hours ago, Griever said:

Amon Ra is an all time hardass football name.

Why has Dexter Lawrence's production dipped recently? Ask him

https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/49358355/why-cincinnati-bengals-2026-nfl-dexter-lawrence-production-dipped-recently-ask-him