Introduction: The GOAT's Perspective on the NFL's Best

When Tom Brady, the NFL’s most decorated quarterback, offers his thoughts on the league’s best players, it’s akin to a masterclass in football. With seven Super Bowl titles and a career spanning over two decades, Brady’s insights carry a weight that few can match. In a recent podcast, Brady revealed his top five NFL quarterbacks for 2024—a mix of seasoned veterans and rising stars. This article delves into each of these quarterbacks, exploring why Brady considers them the best and what sets them apart in the ever-evolving landscape of professional football.

Patrick Mahomes: The Undisputed Leader

Brady starts his list with Patrick Mahomes, the quarterback who has redefined the position with his extraordinary talent and leadership on the field. Since taking over as the Kansas City Chiefs’ starting quarterback, Mahomes has consistently demonstrated why he is the best in the game today.

Stats and Performance
Mahomes' 2024 season has been remarkable, with over 4,800 passing yards, 38 touchdowns, and a mere 9 interceptions. His ability to make jaw-dropping throws from impossible angles, coupled with his football IQ, makes him a nightmare for defenses. Mahomes doesn’t just play the game; he orchestrates it with a precision that is unparalleled in the NFL.

Brady’s Take
In the podcast, Brady praised Mahomes' consistency and leadership, which have been crucial to the Chiefs' sustained success. "Top 5 quarterbacks in the National Football League right now with the top rating Patrick Mahomes being number 1," Brady noted, emphasizing that Mahomes is not just the best now but could go down as one of the greatest of all time.

Impact on the NFL
Mahomes has already secured two Super Bowl titles, and his influence extends beyond wins and stats. He has changed how quarterbacks approach the game, inspiring a new generation of players to embrace creativity and athleticism in ways that were once unimaginable.

Josh Allen: The Powerhouse

Josh Allen of the Buffalo Bills is Brady’s second pick. Known for his towering physique and rocket arm, Allen has developed into one of the most complete quarterbacks in the NFL. His dual-threat ability—both passing and rushing—has made him one of the most versatile and dangerous players on the field.

Stats and Performance
In 2024, Allen threw for 4,300 yards and rushed for 750, scoring a combined 45 touchdowns. His unique combination of size, speed, and arm strength allows him to make plays that few others can. Allen’s physicality often draws comparisons to a linebacker, yet his finesse in the passing game sets him apart.

Brady’s Take
Brady acknowledged Allen’s growth, saying, "I see Josh Allen as someone who always impresses me as a player," highlighting Allen’s continued evolution as a quarterback who can dominate games both through the air and on the ground.

Impact on the NFL
Allen's emergence as an elite quarterback has been pivotal in the Bills' rise as a powerhouse in the AFC. His style of play has forced defensive coordinators to rethink their strategies, proving that the modern NFL quarterback must be as much of a threat with their legs as with their arm.

Joe Burrow: The Calm Assassin

Joe Burrow, the Cincinnati Bengals’ quarterback, is Brady’s third pick. Burrow has quickly become known for his unflappable demeanor and surgical precision in the passing game. Despite facing significant challenges early in his career, Burrow has emerged as one of the league’s most reliable and effective quarterbacks.

Stats and Performance
Burrow’s 2024 stats include 4,600 passing yards, 35 touchdowns, and just 7 interceptions. His ability to read defenses and make quick, accurate decisions has been instrumental in the Bengals' success, including multiple deep playoff runs.

Brady’s Take
Brady was particularly impressed with Burrow’s leadership, stating, "Joe Burrow is very impressive the way he goes on his team," underscoring the quarterback's ability to elevate the play of those around him.

Impact on the NFL
Burrow's calm and collected nature in high-pressure situations has drawn comparisons to Brady himself. His rise has reinvigorated the Bengals franchise and set a new standard for young quarterbacks entering the league.

Lamar Jackson: The Human Highlight Reel

Lamar Jackson, the Baltimore Ravens' dynamic quarterback, is perhaps the most electrifying player in the NFL. Brady’s inclusion of Jackson in his top five speaks volumes about the quarterback’s unique talents and the evolving nature of the position.

Stats and Performance
Jackson’s 2024 season has been another showcase of his dual-threat capabilities, with over 3,500 passing yards and 1,200 rushing yards. His 40 total touchdowns highlight his ability to change the game with both his arm and his legs.

Brady’s Take
Brady recognized Jackson’s special talents, saying, "I see Lamar Jackson who always impresses me as a player," pointing to Jackson’s ability to make game-changing plays on a consistent basis.

Impact on the NFL
Jackson has redefined what it means to be a quarterback in the NFL. His success has forced teams to prioritize speed and versatility, not just in their quarterbacks but across their entire offensive scheme.

The Honorable Mentions: Who’s Number Five?

While Brady didn’t explicitly name a fifth quarterback, speculation abounds. Names like Justin Herbert, Trevor Lawrence, and Jalen Hurts frequently come up in these discussions. Each has shown the potential to be the next great NFL quarterback.

Justin Herbert has been exceptional for the Los Angeles Chargers, with his ability to make all the throws and his calmness under pressure. Trevor Lawrence has made significant strides in Jacksonville, showcasing the talent that made him a top pick. Jalen Hurts has proven to be a dual-threat weapon for the Philadelphia Eagles, blending power with precision.

Brady’s Perspective: Why It Matters

Tom Brady’s perspective on quarterbacks is invaluable because he understands what it takes to excel at the highest level. His picks are not just based on stats but on the intangible qualities that define greatness: leadership, poise, and the ability to perform in clutch moments.

The Evolution of the Quarterback Position

Brady’s list also reflects the ongoing evolution of the quarterback position. Today’s quarterbacks are expected to do more than just throw the ball; they must be able to extend plays, make decisions on the fly, and, in many cases, contribute significantly to the running game. This shift is evident in the quarterbacks Brady highlighted—players who can dominate with both their arms and their legs.

The Future of the NFL: A Golden Age of Quarterbacks

The quarterbacks on Brady’s list represent the future of the NFL. As they continue to develop and refine their games, they will push each other to new heights, creating a golden age of quarterback play. The rivalries and matchups between these elite quarterbacks will define the next decade of football, much like the Brady-Manning duels of the past.

Conclusion: A Legacy of Excellence

Tom Brady’s top five quarterbacks in 2024 are a testament to the depth of talent in the NFL today. Patrick Mahomes, Josh Allen, Joe Burrow, and Lamar Jackson each bring something unique to the table, setting new benchmarks for excellence at the quarterback position. As we look to the future, these players will continue to shape the league, much like Brady did during his illustrious career.

Whether you agree with Brady’s picks or have your own favorites, there’s no denying that we are witnessing a new era of quarterback play. The impact of these players will be felt for years to come, as they continue to push the boundaries of what’s possible on the football field.