The NFL season is heating up, and quarterback performances are once again front and center. According to Cody Benjamin of CBS Sports, the Week 5 Quarterback Power Rankings have been released, sparking conversation across the league. The rankings highlight a mix of established veterans, rising stars, and even rookies who are beginning to make their presence felt on the field.
Josh Allen Claims the No. 1 Spot
Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen sits atop the rankings, reflecting his dominant start to the season. Allen has powered the Bills to a strong early showing, combining his trademark arm strength with his ability to make plays on the ground. His command of the offense and big-play ability put him just ahead of Kansas City Chiefs superstar Patrick Mahomes, who holds the No. 2 spot.
Top 10 Features Familiar Names
Rounding out the top three is Detroit Lions quarterback Jared Goff, whose consistent play has elevated the Lions into NFC contention. Philadelphia’s Jalen Hurts sits at No. 4, while Green Bay’s Jordan Love makes a surprising leap into the Top 5, showing steady growth as the leader of the Packers. Matthew Stafford of the Rams (No. 6), Justin Herbert of the Chargers (No. 7), and Baker Mayfield of the Buccaneers (No. 8) all maintain strong positions. Dallas Cowboys signal-caller Dak Prescott holds the No. 9 slot, while veteran Aaron Rodgers of the Steelers rounds out the Top 10.
Rookies Making Noise
One of the most striking parts of this week’s list is the presence of multiple rookies and young quarterbacks in the mid-tier rankings. Washington’s Jayden Daniels ranks 11th, while fellow rookies Drake Maye (No. 13), Bo Nix (No. 15), Caleb Williams (No. 16), and Michael Penix Jr. (No. 18) also make the cut. Their early placement reflects both promise and potential as they begin their NFL journeys.
Struggles for Former Stars
Several veteran quarterbacks find themselves lower on the list, reflecting inconsistency or lack of production. Mac Jones is ranked at No. 25, while Justin Fields sits just outside the bottom five at No. 26. Geno Smith (No. 22) and Kyler Murray (No. 20) also rank in the middle of the pack, indicating they have more to prove as the season progresses.
Bottom of the Rankings
At the bottom, the struggles are clear. Jake Browning of the Bengals is ranked last at No. 32, with Cooper Rush (No. 31), Bryce Young (No. 30), and Cam Ward (No. 29) joining him near the basement. These quarterbacks face significant questions as their teams look for stability at the most important position on the field.
What It Means Moving Forward
Quarterback play often defines a team’s success, and these rankings highlight both the balance of power in the league and the rapid changes week to week. With rookies climbing, veterans fighting to stay relevant, and superstars like Allen and Mahomes leading the way, the position remains the NFL’s most scrutinized.
As the season heads deeper into October, the race for MVP candidates, playoff positioning, and long-term quarterback answers will only intensify. Fans and analysts alike will be keeping a close eye on who continues to rise—and who falls—on future editions of these rankings.
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