Quarterback Rankings You Didn’t Ask For: AFC North Edition

The AFC North has long been one of the most competitive divisions in football. Between star quarterbacks, bruising defenses, and tough weather late in the season, it’s always a grind. This year is no different, and the quarterback play will play a huge role in who comes out on top. Here’s how I rank the division’s QBs right now — and remember, you didn’t ask for it.

4. Joe Flacco – Cleveland Browns

Joe Flacco will forever have respect for his Super Bowl run with the Ravens, but at this stage of his career, he’s more of a placeholder than a franchise cornerstone. He showed flashes of his old self last season, but consistency is hard to come by. Flacco can still win games and steady the offense, but I don’t believe he’ll ever be the deciding factor for the Browns. More likely, he’s a bridge until Cleveland figures out who their quarterback of the future is.

3. Aaron Rodgers – Pittsburgh Steelers

Rodgers finds himself in a very different chapter of his career. After tearing his Achilles in year one with the Jets, he returned last year and played fairly well — but it was clear he’s lost a step. Once known for controlling defenses with his mobility and improvisation, Rodgers now has to stay in the pocket more often. The arm talent and football IQ are still there, but the clock is ticking. This could very well be his last ride in the NFL.

2. Lamar Jackson – Baltimore Ravens

This is where things get tough. The gap between Lamar and Burrow is razor-thin. Lamar Jackson is one of the most dangerous players in football, capable of breaking a defense with either his arm or his legs. He’s matured into a quarterback who knows when to push for extra yards and when to slide for another play. The Ravens are always in the mix as long as Lamar is healthy, and he’ll continue to be a nightmare for defensive coordinators across the league.

1. Joe Burrow – Cincinnati Bengals

Joe Burrow takes the top spot for me. His calm, confident control of the game is unmatched, and when he’s healthy, he has all the tools to lead Cincinnati deep into the playoffs. The one concern is his tendency to start seasons slow and the constant pressure he faces behind a shaky offensive line. Even so, Burrow’s poise, accuracy, and ability to elevate his offense make him not only the best QB in the AFC North, but also a regular contender in the MVP conversation alongside Lamar Jackson and Josh Allen.

Final Thoughts

The AFC North is stacked with talent, and while these rankings could easily shift as the season plays out, the battle between Burrow and Lamar for the top spot is going to be fun to watch. Rodgers’ last chapter and Flacco’s placeholder role only add more intrigue to what’s already one of the NFL’s toughest divisions.

Article by Ryan Burhite