The debate over the best quarterback in the NFL has raged for years, with Patrick Mahomes often topping the list thanks to his dazzling arm, Super Bowl rings, and highlight-reel plays. But what if the answer isn’t as clear-cut as it seems? Buffalo Bills star Josh Allen has emerged as a dynamic force, and there’s a compelling argument to be made that Allen might actually be better than Mahomes.
Let’s dive into the numbers, the play styles, and the intangibles to see why Josh Allen deserves to be in the conversation—and maybe even at the top of the list.
Physical Tools: The Edge Goes to Allen
Mahomes is a magician with the football, no doubt. His ability to make off-platform throws and extend plays is unmatched—except by Allen.
At 6’5” and 237 pounds, Allen is a physical anomaly. He combines the size of a tight end with the athleticism of a running back and the arm strength of a bazooka. While Mahomes has a cannon for an arm, Allen’s might actually be stronger, capable of launching deep balls with breathtaking ease.
And then there’s Allen’s mobility. Mahomes can move when he needs to, but Allen runs like a freight train. Whether it’s barreling through linebackers or juking safeties in the open field, Allen’s rushing ability adds a dimension to his game that Mahomes can’t quite replicate.
Dual Threat: Advantage Allen
In today’s NFL, being a dual-threat quarterback is more valuable than ever, and Allen is arguably the best in the game at combining passing and rushing.
Allen has rushed for over 3,000 yards and 40+ touchdowns in his career, often serving as the Bills’ most reliable weapon in short-yardage and red-zone situations. Mahomes, while mobile, doesn’t have the same impact on the ground. His rushing stats pale in comparison, and the Chiefs rarely rely on him to power through a defensive front.
This dual-threat ability makes Allen harder to game-plan against. Defenses not only have to respect his arm but also account for his legs on every play.
Supporting Cast: The Mahomes Factor
One of the most significant factors in this debate is the supporting cast each quarterback has had. Mahomes has been blessed with a Hall of Fame-caliber tight end in Travis Kelce and one of the most innovative play-callers in Andy Reid.
Allen, on the other hand, has had to work with less. While Stefon Diggs is an elite receiver, Buffalo’s offense doesn’t have the same depth or creativity as Kansas City’s. Despite this, Allen has consistently put up jaw-dropping numbers, proving he can elevate his team in ways that Mahomes might not have to.
Clutch Factor: A Draw
Mahomes has built a reputation as a clutch performer, with iconic comebacks and a knack for making big plays when it matters most. But let’s not forget Allen’s heroics in high-pressure moments.
The 2022 AFC Divisional Round between the Bills and Chiefs showcased Allen at his best, where he threw for 329 yards, 4 touchdowns, and added 68 rushing yards—only to lose in overtime thanks to a coin toss that kept him off the field. That game wasn’t just a loss for Allen; it was proof he can go toe-to-toe with Mahomes on the biggest stage.
Leadership and Intangibles
Both Mahomes and Allen are exceptional leaders who inspire their teams, but Allen’s gritty, underdog mentality resonates in a different way. Coming out of Wyoming, Allen wasn’t the blue-chip prospect that Mahomes was. His journey from a raw, error-prone rookie to an MVP-caliber superstar is a testament to his relentless work ethic and desire to prove himself.
This blue-collar approach has endeared Allen to Buffalo fans and makes him relatable in a way that Mahomes, with his instant success and natural gifts, can’t quite replicate.
The Verdict
At the end of the day, comparing Josh Allen and Patrick Mahomes is like splitting hairs between greatness and greatness. Mahomes has the hardware: the MVPs, the Super Bowl rings, and the highlight reel plays that will live on forever. But Allen’s unique combination of physical tools, dual-threat ability, and leadership make him every bit as valuable—and maybe even more versatile.
If you’re building a team from scratch, the choice might come down to what you value most. For sheer athleticism, grit, and a quarterback who can do it all, Josh Allen makes a strong case as the NFL’s best quarterback.
Mahomes might own the headlines, but don’t sleep on Allen—he’s redefining what a modern quarterback can be. And one day soon, he might leave no doubt about who’s truly the best.
