Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes is preparing for a bounce-back campaign after enduring the least productive statistical year of his professional career, yet a recent ranking from his peers suggests some doubt has crept into the league about whether he can reclaim his earlier form.
The two-time MVP is recovering from a torn ACL that ended his 2025 season early. He has received medical clearance for unrestricted practice sessions but was held out of the Chiefs’ opening preseason contest as a safety measure. Mahomes has expressed confidence that he will operate at his usual level once the regular season begins.
NFL.com released the latest portion of its annual Top 100 list on Tuesday, covering players ranked from No. 20 through No. 11. The list, compiled through votes cast by NFL players themselves, placed Mahomes at No. 18. That mark represents the first time in several years he has finished outside the top 15.
“Statistically speaking, Mahomes had his worst season since becoming the Chiefs starter in 2018, which has translated to his lowest ranking amid his eighth season on the list,” the rankings noted.
“However, the equity he’s amassed within the NFL is evident as he lands in the top 20.”
The ranking marks a notable decline for the veteran signal-caller and stands as the lowest position he has occupied since he assumed the starting role in his second NFL season. He previously claimed the No. 1 spot in both 2021 and 2023 and consistently landed inside the top five during the 2019, 2020, 2024 and 2025 rankings.
Even as the Chiefs offense encountered difficulties last season, Mahomes compensated in part by increasing his mobility.
“Before he was sidelined with a torn ACL, Mahomes had already rushed for career bests in yards, touchdowns and yards per game (30.1),” the report noted. “He also eclipsed 3,500 passing yards for an incredible eighth consecutive year and though his six QB wins were his lowest, it’s notable the Chiefs were 0-3 when he didn’t start, including losses to a pair of three-win squads.”
The drop means Mahomes now sits behind several other quarterbacks who could contend for league MVP honors this year. Buffalo’s Josh Allen, the Los Angeles Rams’ Matthew Stafford and New England’s Drake Maye have not yet appeared on the unfolding list, which continues to be released in stages as the season draws closer.
Despite the slide in the player-voted rankings, Mahomes continues to draw strong support from those closest to him inside the Chiefs organization. Center Creed Humphrey spoke highly of the quarterback’s unique abilities and presence.
“It feels like every week, when we go back and watch the film after a game, there are two or three plays where you watch and say ‘I don’t even know how that’s possible.’ The best there is,” Humphrey said. “Seeing his leadership and competitive drive, it’s incredible.”
The coaching staff has likewise maintained full confidence in Mahomes. Team officials have indicated he remains on schedule to open the season under center, even after missing the first preseason outing last weekend.
Mahomes’ history of producing highlight-reel plays and guiding the Chiefs through high-pressure situations has built a reservoir of respect across the league. That long-term track record appears to have helped him remain inside the top 20 despite the statistical downturn and injury setback of a year ago.
As training camp continues and the regular season nears, attention will focus on how quickly Mahomes regains his full mobility and decision-making sharpness. The ranking serves as a reminder that even established stars can experience shifts in perception after a difficult stretch.
For now, the focus inside the Chiefs facility remains on preparation. Mahomes has made clear he intends to erase the memory of last season’s challenges and return to the high standard that defined most of his career.
