QB Confidential: NFL passers have weighed in on who they believe stands out in various categories. In an engaging anonymous survey, quarterbacks were asked to name their picks for the smartest QB, the best arm, the top wide receiver, the most challenging defender, and more.
This year, the focus shifted to the pivotal role of quarterbacks, as they shared insights about their peers, the receivers they trust, and the coaches who shape their skills. The survey reached across the league during training camp and preseason, utilizing connections through teams, agents, and social media platforms.
A diverse group of 38 quarterbacks participated, including a blend of seasoned veterans and promising rookies, Pro Bowl selections and backups, as well as former first-round draft choices and undrafted talents.
The purpose was to capture the ongoing debates fans engage in—whether in social settings, online discussions, or while watching games. Questions posed included: Who is the smartest QB in the NFL? Which player has the strongest arm? Who is the most underrated quarterback? Which coach possesses the best offensive strategy? If given the chance, which receiver would they choose? And which defensive player poses the greatest challenge?
Readers are invited to reflect on these inquiries and compare their answers with those of the NFL quarterbacks. Let’s dive into the findings…
Who’s the smartest quarterback in the NFL?
The first question posed was straightforward. Responses varied, with some quarterbacks drawing from personal experiences while others referenced established reputations. Notably, the most intriguing aspect may be the absence of certain expected names among the top contenders.
Leading the pack is Aaron Rodgers, the most seasoned quarterback in the league, who is gearing up to revitalize the New York Jets after a challenging previous season due to a torn Achilles tendon. Rodgers received accolades from 15 of the surveyed quarterbacks. With a Super Bowl title and four MVP awards, his recognition as the smartest QB may come as no surprise.
“We faced him during my rookie season, and it was an eye-opener,” one quarterback remarked. “Hearing about his football IQ and game perception is one thing, but witnessing it firsthand—his hand signals and overall composure—was remarkable. He operates like he’s done it countless times, and indeed, he has.”
Matthew Stafford of the Rams came in a close second, securing 12 votes as he enters his 16th season at age 36. Stafford’s intelligence is well recognized, with one young quarterback recalling his impressive Wonderlic score from 2009. Despite a slight miscalculation, his score of 38 is still commendable for any quarterback.
“His ability to orchestrate plays on the field and grasp every detail is impressive,” one quarterback shared about Stafford.
Another quarterback, unaware of the survey’s outcome, accurately identified the top two, highlighting their distinct styles. “It’s a battle between Matthew Stafford and Aaron Rodgers,” he noted. “Aaron thrives on improvisation, while Matthew excels within the system.”
Kirk Cousins from the Falcons received three votes, positioning him third. In total, eight quarterbacks were acknowledged, with younger players like Jordan Love of the Packers and Brock Purdy of the 49ers also making the list.
Interestingly, Patrick Mahomes, who boasts three Super Bowl victories and three MVP awards, was mentioned by only one quarterback.
“I recognize the complexity of his offense, and the play calls are lengthy,” that quarterback commented. “His performance is truly impressive.”
Final results:
Aaron Rodgers, Jets: 15
Matthew Stafford, Rams: 12
Kirk Cousins, Falcons: 3
Jordan Love, Packers: 1
Patrick Mahomes, Chiefs: 1
Dak Prescott, Cowboys: 1
Brock Purdy, 49ers: 1
Russell Wilson, Steelers: 1
(Three quarterbacks opted not to respond.)
Which NFL coach has the best offensive mind?
Coaches also received attention in the survey, especially regarding offensive strategies. One quarterback remarked, “Many teams aspire to replicate what Reid has established in Kansas City.”
However, teams lacking Mahomes may find it challenging, given his exceptional ability to lead the Chiefs to multiple championships.
Kyle Shanahan received recognition for developing Brock Purdy into a Pro Bowl quarterback, which likely contributed to his selection over Reid. Many quarterbacks acknowledged Shanahan’s extensive coaching tree, which includes prominent figures like Mike McDaniel of the Dolphins and Bobby Slowik of the Texans.
Surprisingly, Sean McVay, the Rams’ head coach, only garnered three votes despite his Super Bowl success and promising coaching lineage. McDaniel, who has a record of 20-14 in Miami, also received three votes.
While quarterbacks were not specifically asked to choose a head coach, most did. One quarterback mentioned that if given another vote, he would support Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson, who could become a head coach soon. “He’s a sleeper,” he noted.
In total, 13 coaches received votes, and it was amusing to see some quarterbacks possibly voting for those with whom they have worked closely.
Final results:
Kyle Shanahan, 49ers: 12
Andy Reid, Chiefs: 8
Mike McDaniel, Dolphins: 3
Sean McVay, Rams: 3
Brian Callahan, Titans: 1
Matt LaFleur, Packers: 1
Mike McCarthy, Cowboys: 1
Kevin O’Connell, Vikings: 1
Sean Payton, Broncos: 1
Arthur Smith, Steelers OC: 1
Shane Steichen, Colts: 1
Zac Taylor, Bengals: 1
Alex Van Pelt, Patriots OC: 1
Which rookie QB will have the best debut season?
The survey also highlighted the promising rookie quarterback class. A record six quarterbacks were selected in the top 12 picks during the draft. Among them were Caleb Williams from USC, who went first to the Bears, Jayden Daniels from LSU at second to the Commanders, and Drake Maye from North Carolina at third to the Patriots. Michael Penix Jr. from Washington was picked eighth by the Falcons, J.J. McCarthy from Michigan went tenth to the Vikings, and Bo Nix from Oregon was chosen twelfth by the Broncos.
Of these six, only three are set to start in Week 1: Williams, Daniels, and Nix. McCarthy suffered a season-ending knee injury during the preseason, while Maye will back up Jacoby Brissett, and Penix will serve as a backup to Cousins in Atlanta.
Last year’s draft order did not guarantee immediate success, as seen with C.J. Stroud of the Texans, who was picked second in 2023 and led his team to a playoff win, while Bryce Young, the first overall pick, faced challenges as a rookie.
Despite this, Williams, the top pick, emerged as the favorite in the survey, receiving 22 votes from the 36 quarterbacks who responded.
“This is the best situation I’ve ever seen for a first overall pick,” one quarterback stated. Another remarked that Williams “has the best supporting cast,” highlighting the talent surrounding him.
Final results:
Caleb Williams, Bears: 22
Jayden Daniels, Commanders: 7
Bo Nix, Broncos: 5
J.J. McCarthy, Vikings: 1
John Rhys Plumlee, Jaguars: 1
Who has the best arm in the NFL?
The question regarding the strongest arm was framed to avoid simply measuring distance. The expected winner emerged: Josh Allen of the Buffalo Bills, who garnered 17 of 38 votes. “He has a cannon,” one quarterback noted.
Patrick Mahomes followed with nine votes, with some respondents praising his innovative throwing style in addition to his physical prowess.
“I believe Josh has a stronger arm,” one quarterback stated, “but for sheer arm talent, I lean toward Mahomes.”
Another voter for Mahomes remarked, “It’s not just about arm strength; he can change angles effortlessly. He can genuinely make every throw.”
Final results:
Josh Allen, Bills: 17
Patrick Mahomes, Chiefs: 9
Matthew Stafford, Rams: 6
Aaron Rodgers, Jets: 3
Justin Herbert, Chargers: 1
Kyler Murray, Cardinals: 1
C.J. Stroud, Texans: 1
If you could have one NFL receiver to throw to, who would it be?
In an era where NFL talent is constantly ranked, quarterbacks were asked to identify their ideal receiver. For many fans, the top choices were clear: Justin Jefferson from the Vikings and Tyreek Hill from the Dolphins. Jefferson received 14 votes, while Hill garnered nine. Remarkably, seven other receivers collectively received 13 votes, illustrating the depth of talent in the league.
“Tyreek’s speed is unprecedented,” one quarterback commented, while another confidently stated, “That’s an easy choice” when selecting Hill.
Davante Adams of the Raiders received four votes, with others receiving two or fewer, showcasing that not all votes came from quarterbacks supporting their team’s star receiver.
Final results:
Justin Jefferson, Vikings: 14
Tyreek Hill, Dolphins: 9
Davante Adams, Raiders: 4
Ja’Marr Chase, Bengals: 2
Cooper Kupp, Rams: 2
CeeDee Lamb, Cowboys: 2
A.J. Brown, Eagles: 1
Mike Evans, Bucs: 1
DJ Moore, Bears: 1
Which defensive player presents the biggest challenge on game day?
When discussing the most formidable defenders, quarterbacks often pointed to edge rushers. Historically, Aaron Donald would have been the go-to answer, but with his retirement, the focus shifted. The Cowboys’ Micah Parsons narrowly won with nine votes, while the Browns’ Myles Garrett followed closely with eight.
“Planning against Micah Parsons is a challenge,” one quarterback stated. “He’s versatile; you never know where he’ll line up. Unlike other players, he can be anywhere on the field.”
T.J. Watt of the Steelers and Nick Bosa of the 49ers each received four votes. “Bosa requires constant attention,” one quarterback remarked. “You have to adjust your strategy, and he excels in both the run and pass game. He’s a professional.”
Final results:
Micah Parsons, Cowboys: 9
Myles Garrett, Browns: 8
Nick Bosa, 49ers: 4
T.J. Watt, Steelers: 4
Maxx Crosby, Raiders: 2
Patrick Surtain, Broncos: 2
Fred Warner, 49ers: 2
Jessie Bates, Falcons: 1
Chris Jones, Chiefs: 1
C.J. Mosley, Jets: 1
Jalen Ramsey, Dolphins: 1
Would you rather have an elite line or elite receivers?
The survey asked quarterbacks to choose between an elite offensive line or elite receivers. Surprisingly, the overwhelming majority favored protection. A total of 29 quarterbacks, over 80%, opted for an elite line, while only seven preferred elite receivers.
“You can’t throw while on your back,” one quarterback remarked.
Another added, “Protection is fundamental to success.”
Interestingly, one quarterback chose not to pick, simply stating “both” as his preference.
Who is the NFL’s most underappreciated quarterback?
The survey revealed that Matthew Stafford emerged as the most underappreciated quarterback, receiving recognition from 12 respondents. He narrowly outpaced Jared Goff of the Lions, who received seven votes.
Kirk Cousins followed with four votes, with one voter noting, “He consistently gives his team a chance.” Baker Mayfield, fresh off a comeback season, garnered three votes.
Final results:
Matthew Stafford, Rams: 12
Jared Goff, Lions: 7
Kirk Cousins, Falcons: 4
Baker Mayfield, Bucs: 3
Lamar Jackson, Ravens: 2
Brock Purdy, 49ers: 2
Geno Smith, Seahawks: 2
Derek Carr, Saints: 1
Jalen Hurts, Eagles: 1
Jordan Love, Packers: 1
Tua Tagovailoa, Dolphins: 1
What’s the most important skill for a QB to succeed?
In an open-ended question, quarterbacks shared their thoughts on the key skills necessary for success in the NFL. Most responses centered around mental attributes, with five quarterbacks emphasizing the importance of “accuracy” as a physical skill.
“You can possess great arm strength and elusiveness, but if you can’t accurately place the ball, you’ll struggle on game day,” one quarterback pointed out.
The theme of “processing” emerged frequently, referring to a quarterback’s ability to read defenses and make the right play call. One quarterback described it as “managing chaos.”
“Processing information quickly and making decisions is vital. You must know the positions of 11 players,” he explained. “In the Shanahan system, it’s like learning a new language. You must absorb the play call, visualize it, articulate it, and adapt to the defense’s movements. The ability to process information rapidly is crucial.”
Leadership and the capacity to elevate teammates were also highlighted.
“The ability to step into the huddle and elevate the performance of ten others is key,” one quarterback noted. “It’s reminiscent of the Tom Brady or Peyton Manning effect. This quality can’t be measured at the combine.”
Greg Auman is an NFL reporter for FOX Sports. He previously spent a decade covering the Buccaneers for the Tampa Bay Times and The Athletic. He can be followed on Twitter at @gregauman.
