The ongoing discussion about the NFL’s elite quarterbacks has intensified following comments made by Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Ja’Marr Chase. In a recent appearance on the “Up And Adams Show,” Chase expressed his belief that his teammate, quarterback Joe Burrow, deserves a rating of 99 in the popular video game “Madden 26.” This statement has reignited the debate over Burrow’s standing compared to other top quarterbacks, particularly Josh Allen of the Buffalo Bills.
According to EA Sports, Burrow ranks behind Allen and Lamar Jackson in the game’s player ratings. While both Allen and Jackson are members of the exclusive 99 club, Burrow follows closely with a rating of 97, while Patrick Mahomes sits at 95. Chase’s comments highlight his admiration for Burrow’s skillset, noting, “Honestly, I feel like he has it all,” pointing to Burrow’s timing, accuracy, and field awareness.
Chase elaborated on the differences between Burrow and Allen, stating, “When you turn on Joe’s tape, it’s different from Josh Allen’s tape, completely different.” He emphasized that opposing teams game plan against the Bengals’ offensive weapons rather than Burrow himself. This distinction underscores the unique playing styles of both quarterbacks, who were both contenders for the NFL MVP award in 2024, which Allen ultimately won for the first time in his career.
Burrow and Chase have developed a formidable partnership since their days at Louisiana State University (LSU), and their continued success in the NFL further solidifies their status as elite talents. Chase’s statistics from the 2024-25 season are impressive, showcasing his abilities with 127 receptions, 1,708 yards, and 17 touchdowns, as reported by ESPN.
The contrasting styles of Burrow and Allen add depth to this ongoing debate. Standing at 6 feet 5 inches and weighing 237 pounds, Allen is known for his versatility. He can dominate both the passing and running game, utilizing his physicality and strong arm. Conversely, Burrow exemplifies a more traditional quarterback approach, skillfully dissecting defenses with precision passing and a high football IQ.
This discussion raises the question of what criteria define an elite quarterback. While both players consistently produce remarkable statistics and lead their teams, their differing styles and strengths contribute to the complexity of their comparison. As Chase noted, the focus of defensive game plans often centers around the Bengals’ receiving threats, such as Chase and teammate Tee Higgins, rather than Burrow alone. In contrast, Allen’s capability to excel regardless of his supporting cast highlights his unique skill set.
Ultimately, the debate surrounding Burrow and Allen may remain unresolved until one of them secures a Super Bowl title, a coveted achievement that has eluded both quarterbacks thus far. As the NFL season progresses, fans and analysts alike will continue to dissect the nuances of their performances and contributions to their respective teams.
In the ever-evolving landscape of professional football, discussions like these reflect both the passion of the fans and the high stakes of the game. As Chase’s comments resonate through the NFL community, they remind us of the competitive spirit that defines the league, fueling debates that are as engaging as the games themselves.
