Ranking Every QB/WR Duo in the NFL

Dec 8, 2024; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts (1) on the field after win against the Carolina Panthers at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Eric Hartline-Imagn Images

In today’s NFL, the focus is increasingly on the passing game, making the connection between quarterbacks and their pass-catchers pivotal not just for individual success, but for the team’s overall performance. Let’s delve into the top QB-WR/TE duos across the league, showcasing the players making waves in this pass-happy era.

At the pinnacle of this list are Joe Burrow and Ja’Marr Chase, a duo that’s been turning heads since their days at LSU. Burrow’s outstanding 96.5 PFF passing grade since 2021 and his dynamic play, with 53 big-time throws when targeting Chase, solidify their place as the top combination in the NFL. Together, they blend precision with an innate understanding of each other’s play, making them a nightmare for defenses.

Following closely are Jalen Hurts and A.J. Brown of the Philadelphia Eagles. Brown’s impressive performance, highlighted by a top PFF receiving grade of 96.5 against single coverage over the past three seasons, complements Hurts’ evolution as a passer. Although Hurts has had his ups and downs, his resilience, particularly evident in his Super Bowl victory, showcases the growth of this duo.

C.J. Stroud and Nico Collins from the Houston Texans come next. Stroud maintained an impressive PFF passing grade of 80.4 in 2024, with Collins emerging as his reliable option. Over the past two seasons, Collins has produced a stellar 117.8 passer rating when targeted, placing him sixth in the league. Their chemistry is a promising sign for the Texans as they develop their offensive identity.

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ pairing of Baker Mayfield and Mike Evans lands in the top five. With both players ranking near the top of their positions, Mayfield has shown an admirable connection with Evans, producing 22 big-time throws—a pivotal factor in their offensive output. Their combined yardage of 2,259 over the past two seasons speaks volumes of their ability to stretch the field.

Next up, Jared Goff and Amon-Ra St. Brown have established themselves as a remarkable duo for the Detroit Lions. With 3,260 yards over the last two seasons, Goff’s impressive 126.8 passer rating targeting St. Brown reflects their synergy that has made them incredibly effective together.

Following them are Dak Prescott and CeeDee Lamb from the Dallas Cowboys. Though Prescott’s PFF passing grade targeting Lamb ranks lower than some of their peers, their combined production of 2,499 yards and 19 big-time throws demonstrates their potential to light up opposing defenses.

The Miami Dolphins’ Tua Tagovailoa and Tyreek Hill corner the eighth spot with an impressive track record since Hill joined the team. From 2023 to 2024, Tagovailoa posted the highest PFF passing grade among this top tier, underscoring Hill’s explosive ability to create plays downfield.

Matthew Stafford and Puka Nacua represent the Los Angeles Rams, with Stafford achieving a PFF passing grade of 92.1 when targeting Nacua. Their connection has produced notable numbers, ranking them high on the list as both players continue to build upon their rapport.

Emerging duo Michael Penix Jr. and Drake London, a more recent entry, show immense promise. Their late-season performance hints at a top-10 capability and brings an exciting element to the Atlanta Falcons’ future.

Justin Herbert and rookie Ladd McConkey complete our top twelve. Herbert’s solid PFF passing grade when targeting McConkey and their combined production of over 1,300 yards signal a bright future as they continue to develop their chemistry.

As the season progresses, these quarterback-receiver duos will remain at the forefront of the NFL’s passing game narrative. Their abilities to connect and execute will be decisive for team success as the league continues to evolve into a showcase of high-octane aerial attacks.