Orlovsky QB Rankings: Stafford Leads Two Categories
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- Dan Orlovsky released his annual rankings, evaluating the top 10 starting NFL quarterbacks across seven traits (arm strength, ball placement, mechanics, decision-making, pocket presence, second-reaction creativity, rushing ability) based on tape study heading into the 2026 season.
- Matthew Stafford topped both the ball placement and mechanics lists, with Orlovsky highlighting how Stafford's tight upper-lower body connection enables no-look throws that defenses can't read until release.
- Josh Allen claimed the No. 1 spot for arm strength, credited with consistent zip on throws from uncomfortable positions via wrist flicks.
- Drake Maye earned the No. 1 ranking for pocket presence after leading the NFL with an 82.5 QBR inside the pocket, a 74.9% completion rate from the pocket, and 9.2 yards per attempt — all league bests.
- Joe Burrow dropped from first to fourth in ball placement after injuries cost him more than half of the 2025 season, with Orlovsky factoring in 'time on task' as the reason for the slide.
- Baker Mayfield was singled out for having 'the most slept-on arm in the NFL,' ranking No. 6 in arm strength, while Sam Darnold cracked the top 10 in two categories — ball placement (No. 3) and pocket presence (No. 3).
- Daniel Jones placed a surprising No. 3 in mechanics, with Orlovsky citing his consistent sound mechanics powering Indianapolis's varied RPO system in 2025.
Why it matters: Matthew Stafford topped both the ball placement and mechanics lists, while Joe Burrow dropped from first to fourth in ball placement after injuries cost him more than half of the 2025 season, and Drake Maye's No. 1 pocket presence ranking — backed by an 82.5 QBR inside the pocket — marks him as the rankings' biggest riser heading into 2026.
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