Patrick Mahomes Ranked 6th-Best QB in NFL After Injury-Plagued Season

Patrick Mahomes, the three-time Super Bowl MVP, has been ranked as the 6th-best quarterback in the NFL on PFN's Top 100 players list ahead of the 2026 season.

What happened?

Mahomes currently ranks No. 15 overall on PFN's Top 100 list, placing him as the sixth-best quarterback. He trails Matthew Stafford (No. 14), Joe Burrow (No. 10), Drake Maye (No. 8), Lamar Jackson (No. 2), and Josh Allen (No. 1).

Why it matters for Patrick Mahomes

The drop in ranking can be attributed to several factors, but it seems to stem from a combination of Mahomes struggling mightily down the stretch last season and suffering a season-ending knee injury, a torn ACL and LCL, that forced him to miss the final three games.

What comes next?

Despite the injury, PFN analyst Kyle Soppe made it clear that Mahomes is still a top quarterback in the NFL. "The numbers are historic and the awards memorable," Soppe wrote. "When defining greatness at this level, however, it's about the fear you put in the hearts of the opposition when the chips are down."

PFN analyst Jacob Infante shared a similar sentiment, noting that despite a slight drop-off in play as of late, Mahomes still possesses the tools, talent, and ability to win that make him one of the league's best. "Even if Patrick Mahomes has seen his efficiency dip over the last three seasons, there's no denying he's still a top quarterback in the NFL," Infante wrote.

There's no guarantee Mahomes will be ready for Week 1, but his participation in the Chiefs' offseason program and OTAs is an encouraging sign. Kansas City opens the 2026 season against the Denver Broncos, and Chiefs fans would want nothing more than to see their franchise quarterback back on the playing field, silencing the critics.

The impact of the injury

The injury forced Mahomes to miss the final three games and could continue to hinder him early on in 2026. However, his participation in the Chiefs' offseason program and OTAs is an encouraging sign.

What's next for Patrick Mahomes?

The Chiefs' offseason program and OTAs are a crucial part of Mahomes' recovery, and his participation in these sessions is a positive sign for his return to the field.