Is Lamar Jackson Still a Top 10 Quarterback?

The question of whether Lamar Jackson ranks among the top 10 NFL quarterbacks is a topic of debate. Some experts, including a respondent in ESPN’s annual quarterback survey, disagree with this ranking. Fox Sports Radio host Colin Cowherd shares this sentiment.

Cowherd expressed his concerns, stating, “I no longer trust Lamar Jackson in a big spot. I’m selling my stock… I’d take Bo Nix today in a fourth-quarter, come-from-behind situation over Lamar.” Cowherd’s list of top 10 quarterbacks includes names like Josh Allen, Patrick Mahomes, and Caleb Williams, leaving Jackson out.

Despite some considering Jackson’s exclusion as controversial, his performance over the past seven seasons has made him a prominent figure in the league. He has earned two MVP awards and displayed regular-season dominance. As expected, Jackson’s MVP odds remain high, yet some counterarguments persist.

One issue is Jackson’s performance last season. In 13 starts, he averaged 196.1 passing yards per game, which is less than players like Michael Penix Jr. His projected 21 touchdown passes over a full season would be around the league average. His rushing stats also declined, with only 349 rushing yards and two touchdowns.

Various factors might explain this decline. Injuries may have hindered his performance, suggesting potential for a comeback. However, a decline in his career trajectory cannot be ruled out. Similar declines occurred with quarterbacks like Russell Wilson and Cam Newton.

Jackson’s playing style, reliant on athleticism, may not age as well as those who excel from the pocket. Though he is a skilled passer, his outstanding running ability is crucial to his success.

Even if Jackson regains form in the regular season, concerns remain about his postseason performance. Cowherd points out, Jackson’s playoff record stands at 3-5, with a 60.6% completion rate and a 10-to-7 touchdown-to-interception ratio.

Cowherd’s preference for Bo Nix over Jackson in critical moments stems from these numbers. If postseason performance defines a quarterback’s value, excluding Jackson from the top 10 is understandable. Entering the 2026 season, identifying 10 quarterbacks with fewer uncertainties is plausible.

Unanswered questions about Jackson’s health, adaptability, and commitment to football linger. Meanwhile, quarterbacks like Mahomes, Allen, and Stafford appear as more reliable choices. Comparing Jackson to emerging quarterbacks like Jordan Love and Sam Darnold adds to the debate.

The discussion on whether Lamar Jackson remains a top-10 quarterback continues. Until he proves himself in critical situations, such queries will persist.