Joe Burrow Is the Best QB Right Now’ — Preseason Poll Finally Gives Him His Due

The NFL world is buzzing as the latest preseason quarterback poll has officially recognized Joe Burrow as the best quarterback playing today. This acknowledgment carries significant weight, especially in a league loaded with elite signal-callers like Patrick Mahomes, Josh Allen, and Lamar Jackson. Burrow’s rise to the top—and this well-earned recognition—reflects his extraordinary talent, relentless work ethic, and undeniable leadership that have collectively reshaped the Cincinnati Bengals into championship contenders.

Burrow’s journey from a promising rookie to arguably the premier quarterback in the NFL today serves not only as a testament to his growth but also as validation from coaches, scouts, and executives who closely follow the league. The preseason poll is not just a ranking; it’s a declaration that Burrow has reached a new pinnacle in his career, meriting respect and admiration on a league-wide level.

The Evolution of Joe Burrow: From Highly-Touted Prospect to NFL’s Elite

When Burrow was drafted first overall by Cincinnati in 2020, expectations were high, but his ascent has exceeded even the loftiest predictions. Early on, his rookie season showed flashes of brilliance despite injuries. The true breakthrough came in his second year, guiding the Bengals to a Super Bowl appearance—a feat not seen in Cincinnati for decades.

What sets Burrow apart is his blend of precision passing, mental toughness, and calm demeanor under intense pressure. He has showcased a consistently high level of play, mastering the mental game with exceptional footwork, pocket awareness, and decision-making. These skills have made him one of the most efficient and effective quarterbacks in the league.

This preseason poll confirms what many in professional circles had already been witnessing firsthand—Burrow is operating at an elite level.

What the Poll Reveals About Burrow’s Current Status

In assessments sourced from coaches, scouts, and NFL executives, Joe Burrow now ranks at or near the top of quarterback evaluations. While Patrick Mahomes maintains his status as a generational talent, the margin separating him and Burrow has narrowed significantly. Burrow’s 2024 campaign, featuring league-leading completions, passing yards, and touchdown passes, is a major driver behind this shift.

Evaluators praise Burrow’s technical proficiency, such as his impeccable ball placement and footwork, while also highlighting his ability to remain composed under pressure—a trait that often defines championship quarterbacks. Despite playing behind a less-than-stellar offensive line and a defense that has struggled at times, Burrow’s consistent ability to keep the Bengals competitive has garnered praise and further justified his new ranking.

This poll functions not only as a reflection of statistics but also of the respect earned from those who study the game at its highest level.

Why Burrow’s Rise Is So Significant in the QB Landscape

Quarterback is the most scrutinized position in the NFL and the one most often correlated with team success. For Burrow to be named the best right now means more than individual glory. It signals that his leadership, skill set, and football IQ are currently unmatched, even among the league’s best and most experienced players.

Given the competition in the NFL—featuring players like Josh Allen and Lamar Jackson, who offer remarkable athleticism and inconsistency—Burrow’s clinical execution and mental game shine brighter. Coaches note his ability to dissect defenses pre-snap and his readiness to adjust plays with exceptional instincts.

This makes Burrow not only an outstanding individual performer but also a quarterback who elevates those around him, inspiring confidence across the entire Bengals roster.

A Closer Look at Burrow’s Strengths

Joe Burrow’s success lies partly in his artistry as a passer. His ability to deliver the football precisely where it needs to go is almost surgical. Burrow’s accuracy is complemented by impeccable timing, as he anticipates receiver routes and exploits defensive weaknesses.

Moreover, his mobility, too often underrated, enables him to evade pressure and extend plays, buying time for big plays downfield. His awareness of pocket dynamics allows him to step up or slide away from defenders with a poise that many young quarterbacks lack.

Off the field, Burrow’s leadership is well documented. His work ethic, humility, and calm under pressure set the tone for the Bengals. In a league where emotional intelligence matters, Burrow’s mindset gives Cincinnati a critical edge.

Challenges He Overcame to Earn This Recognition

Burrow’s journey hasn’t been without adversity. Injuries plagued his rookie season, threatening his momentum. The Bengals’ offensive line has had its weaknesses, which increases the complexity of Burrow’s job. Combine that with a defense that doesn’t always provide consistent support, and Burrow’s ability to perform at the highest level is even more impressive.

Despite these obstacles, he consistently delivered in critical moments, rallying his team and leading impressive comebacks. The preseason poll’s acknowledgment speaks volumes about his ability to thrive under less-than-ideal circumstances, solidifying his reputation as both a skilled quarterback and a resilient competitor.

The Impact on the Cincinnati Bengals Organization

This recognition enhances Burrow’s stature within the Bengals organization and across the NFL. It reinforces Cincinnati’s identity as a rising power in the league, fueled by Burrow’s leadership.

Fans have experienced renewed excitement and pride, fueling turnout and team support. Burrow’s recognition also helps with player recruitment, as athletes are drawn to a team with a true franchise quarterback and a winning culture.

The Bengals’ front office and coaching staff naturally view this ranking as encouragement to continue building around Burrow, investing in offensive weapons and improving team defense to maximize his potential.

Comparing Burrow to Other Elite Quarterbacks

When looking around the league, comparisons between Burrow and other top quarterbacks highlight his uniqueness. Mahomes is heralded for his improvisational flair and dynamic arm talent, yet Burrow’s precision and decision-making offer a contrasting style that many coaches praise for its efficiency.

Josh Allen’s dual-threat capability presents a different challenge, but Burrow’s pocket presence and methodical approach to managing games has set a standard for effectiveness under pressure.

Veterans like Aaron Rodgers and Tom Brady have enjoyed extended eras near the top of quarterback rankings, and Burrow’s trajectory mirrors those early-career rises—marked by mental acumen, consistent improvement, and clutch performances in big games.

What Joe Burrow’s Future Holds

Recognized officially as the best QB in the preseason poll, Burrow’s future is filled with promise but also expectations. Maintaining this elite level means continuous adaptation as defenses adjust to his style. His supporting cast will need to improve to match his talent and ambitions.

Long-term, Burrow appears poised to define the next era of NFL quarterbacking. Staying healthy, refining his leadership, and continuing to elevate the Bengals will be critical to his legacy.

This ranking also opens pathways to individual honors such as MVP awards, and greater postseason success—all benchmarks in the making of a football legend.

The Cultural and Fan Impact of This Recognition

For Bengals fans, this acknowledgment is a source of tremendous pride. Burrow skyrocketed from a team starved for success to the leader credited with turning around franchise fortunes. This fanbase’s attachment to him is more than just appreciation for talent; it is admiration for perseverance, grit, and connection.

Nationally, this poll forecast energizes debates and discussions across sports media and fan communities. Joe Burrow’s name circulates as the quarterback to watch, sparking excitement for NFL seasons ahead.

Conclusion

Joe Burrow’s recognition as the best quarterback right now by the preseason poll is a benchmark moment in his career. It validates years of dedication and signals his arrival among the NFL’s elite. Beyond the numbers and statistics, this accolade reflects the respect earned through leadership, skills, and resilience.

As the NFL season unfolds, Burrow’s challenge will be to live up to this title, propelling the Bengals to new heights and cementing his legacy. One thing is clear—the preseason poll has finally given Joe Burrow the due he has long deserved.