Is Joe Burrow a Top 3 Quarterback in the NFL?

The NFL quarterback landscape is more competitive than ever, with elite talent showcasing their skills week in and week out. Among the league’s top gunslingers, Joe Burrow has quickly risen to prominence, leading the Cincinnati Bengals to deep playoff runs and establishing himself as one of the most consistent and poised passers in the game. But the question remains—is Joe Burrow a top 3 QB in the NFL today?

To answer this, we’ll evaluate Burrow’s statistical production, leadership, playoff success, and overall skill set compared to other top quarterbacks like Patrick Mahomes, Josh Allen, Jalen Hurts, and Lamar Jackson.

Joe Burrow’s Case as a Top 3 NFL Quarterback

1. Elite Passing Ability and Accuracy

One of Burrow’s defining traits is his pinpoint accuracy. His ability to place the ball in tight windows, even under pressure, separates him from many quarterbacks in the league. In the 2022 season, Burrow posted a 68.3% completion rate, ranking among the best in the NFL. His precision allows him to effectively distribute the ball to his top playmakers, including Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins.

Moreover, Burrow’s pocket presence is elite. Despite playing behind an offensive line that has struggled at times, he maintains composure, processes defenses quickly, and delivers on-target throws under duress. His ability to read coverages and make anticipatory throws showcases his advanced football IQ.

2. Playoff Success and Clutch Factor

The best quarterbacks elevate their play when the stakes are highest, and Burrow has proven to be one of the most clutch QBs in the league. Leading the Cincinnati Bengals to a Super Bowl LVI appearance in just his second season cemented his reputation as a big-game performer.

In back-to-back playoff runs (2021 & 2022), Burrow consistently made critical plays in high-pressure situations. Whether it was outdueling Patrick Mahomes in the 2021 AFC Championship Game or leading game-winning drives, his ability to perform under pressure is reminiscent of the all-time greats.

3. Leadership and Toughness

Beyond stats, Burrow’s leadership and mental toughness are among the best in the NFL. Despite enduring a torn ACL as a rookie, he returned stronger and led the Bengals to the Super Bowl the following season. His resilience and ability to rally his team make him the face of the Bengals franchise.

Burrow exudes confidence without arrogance, earning the respect of both teammates and opponents. His calm demeanor and ability to stay composed in high-pressure moments are traits shared by the greatest quarterbacks in history.

4. Statistical Production and Efficiency

Burrow’s numbers back up his elite status. In 2022, he threw for:

• 4,475 yards
• 35 touchdowns
• 12 interceptions
• 68.3% completion rate

These numbers are comparable to, if not better than, those of other top quarterbacks in the league. His passer rating and QBR consistently rank in the top five, proving his efficiency and ability to sustain high-level play.

Moreover, his touchdown-to-interception ratio demonstrates his ability to balance aggressive playmaking with smart decision-making, a hallmark of the NFL’s elite quarterbacks.

Comparing Joe Burrow to Other Elite QBs

While Joe Burrow is undoubtedly a top 5 quarterback, does he crack the top 3? Let’s compare him to the league’s best.

Patrick Mahomes: The Undisputed No. 1

There’s little debate that Patrick Mahomes holds the title of the NFL’s best quarterback. With two Super Bowl rings, multiple MVP awards, and record-breaking performances, he remains the gold standard for QB play.

• Edge Over Burrow: Mahomes has a stronger arm, improvisational skills, and championship pedigree. However, Burrow has beaten Mahomes in key matchups, proving he can compete at an elite level.

Josh Allen: The Dual-Threat Powerhouse

Josh Allen is a unique quarterback with a rocket arm and elite rushing ability. His ability to extend plays and create explosive moments makes him one of the most dangerous players in the NFL.

• Edge Over Burrow: Allen’s athleticism and rushing threat give him an added dimension. However, Burrow has a more refined passing game and has had more playoff success.

Jalen Hurts: The Emerging Star

Jalen Hurts has ascended into the MVP conversation, thanks to his ability to throw efficiently and dominate on the ground. His leadership and versatility make him a nightmare for defenses.

• Edge Over Burrow: Hurts’ rushing ability is superior, but Burrow is the better pure passer with more consistent production in the playoffs.

Lamar Jackson: The Ultimate Playmaker

A two-time MVP, Lamar Jackson brings an unmatched rushing ability to the quarterback position. His explosiveness and creativity make him one of the hardest players to defend.

• Edge Over Burrow: Jackson’s speed and mobility are on another level, but Burrow has proven to be more consistent in high-pressure situations.

Is Joe Burrow a Top 3 Quarterback Right Now?

Based on accuracy, decision-making, leadership, and playoff success, Joe Burrow firmly belongs in the top 3 conversation. While Mahomes is the undisputed No. 1, the No. 2 and No. 3 spots are debatable between Burrow, Allen, and Hurts.

Why Burrow Deserves a Top 3 Spot:

• Elite passing accuracy and decision-making
• Proven playoff success, including a Super Bowl appearance
• Unmatched poise and leadership under pressure
• Consistently strong statistical production

While Josh Allen and Jalen Hurts bring more mobility to the position, Burrow’s combination of precision, leadership, and playoff performance makes him arguably the second-best QB in the league behind Mahomes.

Final Verdict

As long as Joe Burrow stays healthy, he will remain in the NFL’s elite QB conversation for years to come. With a strong supporting cast in Cincinnati and a relentless drive to improve, Burrow has all the tools to win MVPs and Super Bowls in the near future.

So, is Joe Burrow a top 3 quarterback in the NFL?

Yes, and he might soon challenge Mahomes for the No. 1 spot.