Quarterback Tiers
At any level of play there are different tiers that Quarterbacks are categorized in based on their ability and performance. Here is a list and description of the Quarterback tiers for the High School, College, and Professional Level according to trustworthy sources from NFL executives.
Tier 1
A Tier 1 Quarterback can carry his team each week. The team wins because of him. He expertly handles pure-passing situations. He has no real holes in his game.
— Patrick Mahomes, Josh Allen, Lamar Jackson
Tier 2
A Tier 2 Quarterback can carry his team sometimes but not as consistently. He can handle pure-passing situations in doses and/or possesses other dimensions that are special enough to elevate him above Tier 3.
— CJ Stroud, Jared Goff, Jalen Hurts, Brock Purdy, Jordan Love
Tier 3
A Tier 3 Quarterback is a legitimate starter but needs a heavier running game and/or defensive component to win. A lower volume drop back offense suits him best.
— Tua Tagovailoa, Trevor Lawrence, Kyler Murray, Baker Mayfield, Geno Smith, Russell Wilson, Derek Carr
Tier 4
A Tier 4 Quarterback could be an unproven player or a veteran who ideally would not start all games.
— Justin Fields, Gardner Minshew, Daniel Jones, Anthony Richardson, Will Levis, Bryce Young, Sam Darnold