NFL Executives Rank Lamar Jackson Fourth Despite Historic MVP Season

Despite Lamar Jackson's historic 2024 season, where he posted a 119.6 passer rating, 41 touchdowns to just four interceptions, led the NFL in several advanced metrics, and broke the NFL record for career rushing yards by a quarterback, he was ranked only as the fourth-best quarterback in the league by NFL executives, coaches, and scouts. This ranking, released by ESPN and compiled from a panel of 70 league insiders, placed Jackson behind Patrick Mahomes, Josh Allen, and Joe Burrow, a position many critics and analysts find unjust given Jackson's dual-threat prowess and statistical dominance. Analysts and coaches have praised Jackson's unique combination of passing and rushing abilities, his improved pocket presence, and his near-win of a third MVP award, but still feel he is underappreciated in league rankings. Some commentators argue that Jackson should be ranked closer to No. 1 given his contributions and the close competition among the top AFC quarterbacks. While Jackson has led the Ravens to multiple postseason appearances, questions linger about his ability to break through and win a Super Bowl, a feat yet to be achieved by him, Allen, or Burrow, as the NFL remains dominated by veterans like Mahomes and Tom Brady. The debate continues over who is the best quarterback in the league, with Jackson's extraordinary play style and success calling for greater respect from his peers and the league's evaluators.