NFL power rankings: Top 5 AFC quarterbacks

The AFC is loaded with top-quality quarterbacks, but these five give their teams the best chance to win big in 2021.

5. Ryan Tannehill, Tennessee Titans

We could have gone with Lamar Jackson here, or if you want to be cute, Baker Mayfield. However, Tannehill has really been underrated throughout his time in Nashville and gets the nod. Last year, the former first-round pick threw for 3,819 yards with 33 touchdowns and only seven interceptions. Additionally, Tannehill has taken Tennessee to a division title, two playoff berths and an AFC Championship Game appearance with postseason wins over Jackson and Tom Brady — on the road.

4. Justin Herbert, Los Angeles Chargers

Herbert is going to be a superstar, and showed why as a rookie. Despite only starting 15 games and playing behind one of the league’s worst offensive lines, Herbert threw for 4,336 yards (sixth in the NFL) with 31 touchdowns against 10 interceptions. With the Chargers revamping their line and switching up the coaching staff, Herbert should join the ranks of the elite in only his second campaign.

3. Josh Allen, Buffalo Bills

Fresh off a much-deserved six-year extension, Allen has hopes of repeating his breakout 2020 season. After two middling years to start his pro career, the Wyoming product went off, helping receiver Stefon Diggs lead the league in catches and receiving yards while putting up 4,544 passing yards and 37 touchdowns. Furthermore, Buffalo won its division for the first time since 1996 and advanced to the AFC Championship Game before losing to the Kansas City Chiefs.

2. Deshaun Watson, Houston Texans

Putting aside his legal troubles and judging Watson strictly off football, he deserves to hold the No. 2 spot. Watson was brilliant on one of the league’s worst teams in 2020, throwing for 4,823 yards to lead the NFL. He also launched 33 touchdowns with only seven interceptions, despite Houston only managing four wins to finish with a top-three pick in the upcoming NFL Draft (which belonged to the Miami Dolphins). Watson’s future is murky for obvious reasons, but his on-field play is phenomenal.

1. Patrick Mahomes, Kansas City Chiefs

Mahomes is the clear choice. The Chiefs have enjoyed Mahomes as a starter for three seasons and in that time, they have won a Super Bowl, reached another, seen Mahomes have a 5,000-yard, 50-touchdown season and win MVP honors. In short, he’s a legitimate generational talent who should have his best years ahead of him. Considering his talents, the supporting cast and head coach Andy Reid, the Chiefs are deserved favorites to win Super Bowl LVI.