NFL Quarterback Analysis: Arm Strength and Beyond
In Alofoke Deportes, we delve into the analysis of the most outstanding NFL quarterbacks, exploring their specific skills beyond overall performance. Who really excels in key areas of the game? This season, we evaluate the best in seven distinct categories: arm strength, throwing accuracy, mechanics, decision-making, presence in the protection pocket, ability to run with the ball, and creativity in second-reaction situations.
Here are the rankings based on current performance and expectations for the 2025 season, considering the hierarchy of quarterbacks at this time. Only starters are included, based on what we observe on the field.
Arm Strength
- Josh Allen, Bills
- Patrick Mahomes, Chiefs
- Justin Herbert, Chargers
- Lamar Jackson, Ravens
- Matthew Stafford, Rams
- Baker Mayfield, Buccaneers
- Joe Burrow, Bengals
- Caleb Williams, Bears
- Michael Penix Jr., Falcons
- Jordan Love, Packers
The strength of the arm is not just about throwing long passes, but about the ability to throw the ball with precision in critical situations, such as in tight windows or at distances of 15 to 20 yards. A strong arm is needed to ensure that the ball arrives on time, especially in third-down and 12-yard-to-go situations, where defenders are covering the receiver.
Allen excels in this area, followed by Mahomes, Herbert, and Jackson, who demonstrate a superior level. Allen connected on 15 passes in tight windows of more than 10 yards last season, leading the league with nine of those passes at a distance of at least 20 yards.
Furthermore, the ability to shoot from unusual positions, without the need for perfect support, is crucial. The first four on the list master this skill, and players like Williams and Love also show flashes of this dexterity.
Burrow, although recognized for his precision and presence in the protection pocket, also deserves recognition for his arm strength. Stafford continues to demonstrate his ability to throw accurate side passes, while Mayfield stands out for his ability to throw the ball with force. Penix, despite having few professional starts, has shown a promising arm.
Players like Anthony Richardson Sr., Will Levis, and Joe Milton III were not included due to their lack of consistency or backup roles. Jayden Daniels, although talented, did not make the list due to space limitations.
Accuracy in the Launch
- Joe Burrow, Bengals
- Jayden Daniels, Commanders
- Lamar Jackson, Ravens
- Josh Allen, Bills
- Patrick Mahomes, Chiefs
- Matthew Stafford, Rams
- Tua Tagovailoa, Dolphins
- Brock Purdy, 49ers
- Baker Mayfield, Buccaneers
- Geno Smith, Raiders
Precision in the throw, the art of placing the ball accurately in any situation, is fundamental. The best quarterbacks can complete passes even when they shouldn’t, allowing their receivers to maximize gains. This skill demands conviction and confidence.
Burrow leads this category, with the lowest rate of deflected passes (11.0%), the fourth-highest completion percentage (70.6%), and the second-highest completion rate over expected (4.9%). Daniels, with an impressive completion rate of 69.0% as a rookie, demonstrates great skill in throwing away from defenders.
Jackson and Allen have significantly improved in this aspect, ranking among the top five. Tagovailoa secured a place in the top ten, leading the league in completion percentage (72.9%). Purdy, although his completion percentage decreased, continues to stand out for his accuracy. Smith, known for his perfect passes, also appears on the list.
Players like C.J. Stroud and Jared Goff were left out, despite their high accuracy, due to the competitiveness of the list.
The list continues with the analysis of mechanics, decision-making, presence in the protection pocket, the ability to run with the ball, and creativity in second-reaction situations, highlighting the most outstanding quarterbacks in each of these crucial areas.
