Ranking All Starting Quarterbacks From Least to Most Likeable

Being an NFL quarterback isn’t for the faint of heart. You’re constantly dodging 300-pound linemen who want to flatten you, dealing with relentless fan scrutiny over every single throw, and carrying the immense pressure of leading a franchise to glory. But beyond the touchdowns and stat sheets, there’s another factor that can make or break a QB’s reputation—how much people actually like them.

Some quarterbacks are beloved by fans and teammates alike, while others… well, let’s just say they have a little PR work to do. In the most unscientific ranking imaginable, we’re breaking down all 32 starting quarterbacks from the 2024 season purely based on likability. No deep film study, no advanced analytics—just straight-up vibes. Let’s dive in!

32. Deshaun Watson

Deshaun Watson
Wikipedia

Yeah, no explanation needed here. His off-field issues have made him one of the least liked QBs in the league. Will he even be able to play again? We’ll have to see.

31. Aaron Rodgers

Aaron Rodgers
Photo by Elvis Kennedy

Some people love his “deep thinker” persona. Others… not so much. His stance on various topics has made him divisive.

30. Will Levis

 Will Levis
Wikipedia

The whole “drinks mayo in coffee” thing was a rough start. Jury’s still out. His cannon arm and brash confidence could make him polarizing.

29. Kyler Murray

Kyler Murray
Openverse

The talent is there, but so are the questions about his leadership and dedication. His gaming habits have weirdly become a talking point.

28. Daniel Jones

Daniel Jones
Photo by All-Pro Reels

Despite not ending the season as a starting quarterback, he did play most of the year as one. However, it’s hard to be too likeable when you’re mostly associated with running 80 yards and tripping. His inconsistency doesn’t help.

27. Russell Wilson

Russell Wilson
Openverse

Used to be a fan favorite, but the corny social media moments have taken a toll. His play on the field will dictate whether he can win back fans.

26. Dak Prescott

Dallas Cowboys
Openverse

Cowboys fans love him. Cowboys haters… don’t. His leadership is undeniable, but inconsistent playoff performances hurt his standing.

25. Drake Maye

Drake Maye
Openverse

Drake Maye had a decent season, but it wasn’t like he blew the roof of the place. It’s clear he has a lot of potential, but his personality is still a bit of a mystery.

24. Derek Carr

Derek Carr
Photo by All-Pro Reels

Solid dude, but not exactly the most exciting QB on or off the field. He’s a respected veteran, but he doesn’t generate much buzz.

23. Caleb Williams

Caleb Williams
NFL on Fox on YouTube

The new kid on the block. It’s clear Williams is smart and hard-working, but there are already a lot of people who have varying opinions on him. Once we see more of his personality in the NFL, he could climb the rankings.

22. Bo Nix

Bo Nix
Openverse

Broncos fans weren’t sure what they were going to get with Bo Nix, but it’s clear he’s a star in the making. Not only did he lead Denver to a winning season, but he got them to the playoffs for the first time in 10 years. That’ll win you a lot of likability points.

21. Brock Purdy

Brock Purdy
CBS Sports on YouTube

Mr. Irrelevant turned franchise QB? It’s a Cinderella story everyone can get behind. However, fans haven’t really seen a whole lot of his personality just yet. 

20. Baker Mayfield

Baker Mayfield
Photo by Erik Drost

Once polarizing, but has settled into his underdog role and become more likeable. His fiery personality and willingness to bet on himself make him a compelling character.

19. Justin Herbert

Justin Herbert
Los Angeles Chargers on YouTube

Introverted and doesn’t really put himself out there much, but he has a sneakily funny sense of humor. His on-field talent is undeniable, but he remains a mystery off the field.

18. Geno Smith

Geno Smith
Photo by Keith Allison

His resurgence is one of the best stories in the league. After years of bouncing around, he’s finally proving himself as a legitimate starter.

17. Anthony Richardson

Anthony Richardson
Openverse

Big upside, big personality. Fans love his energy. His raw talent and explosive playstyle make him one of the most intriguing young QBs.

16. Bryce Young

Bryce Young
Openverse

Young, promising, and hasn’t done anything to make people dislike him yet. His cool demeanor under pressure suggests he has a bright future ahead.

15. Sam Darnold

Sam Darnold
Photo by AlexanderJonesi

Despite a rough playoff performance this year, Darnold really won over a lot of NFL fans this past season. While it’s clear he’s not a star quarterback, he’s incredibly easy to root for.

14. Gardner Minshew

Gardner Minshew
Photo by All-Pro Reels

The mustache. The jorts. The ultimate vibes guy. Even as a journeyman, he’s a cult hero. His fun-loving nature and eccentric personality make him one of the most entertaining players in the league.

13. Matthew Stafford

MatthewStafford
Wikipedia via Sewageboy

A veteran who’s been through the grind and still keeps it real. His Super Bowl win with the Rams cemented his legacy and made him even more respected.

12. Patrick Mahomes

Patrick Mahomes
Openverse

Love him or hate him, Mahomes is the face of the NFL. While he’s definitely polarizing, he does seem to be a fairly humble guy who loves his teammates, family, and the city he represents. 

11. Jared Goff

Jared Goff
Photo by All-Pro Reels

Low-key hilarious and thriving in Detroit’s underdog story. His ability to bounce back from being traded has endeared him to fans.

10. Jordan Love

Jordan Love
Openverse

People love an underdog story, and he’s handling the impossible task of following Aaron Rodgers with grace. His patience and perseverance are already paying off.

9. Trevor Lawrence

Trevor Lawrence
Photo by All-Pro Reels

Sunshine himself. Super talented, humble, but still finding his off-field personality. His steady progression in the league has made him a favorite among Jaguars fans.

8. C.J. Stroud 

C.J. Stroud
Openverse

Cool, calm, and collected, Stroud’s confidence without arrogance makes him one of the easiest QBs to root for. His success over the past 2 years, and ability to stay composed under pressure have earned him tons of respect.

7. Jayden Daniels

Jayden Daniels
Openverse

Jayden Daniels clearly won over a lot of people throughout his rookie season. His dual-threat ability has already drawn comparisons to some of the league’s best and his humble attitude proves he’s a hard worker.

6. Kirk Cousins

Kirk Cousins
Photo by Keith Allison

“You like that?!” Yes, Kirk. We do. His dad-joke energy and leadership skills make him hard not to appreciate. While he didn’t end the season as a starter — and his future looks uncertain — it’s really hard not to love Captain Kirk. 

5. Lamar Jackson

Lamar Jackson
Photo by All-Pro Reels

Electric on the field, hilarious on social media. Just an all-around good dude. His dedication to his team and city only adds to his likeability factor.

Read More: Every NFL Quarterback-Coach Duo, Ranked From Worst To Best

4. Joe Burrow

Joe Burrow
Openverse

Cool, confident, and charismatic, Burrow has the perfect blend of swagger and humility. Plus, his outfits alone could get him on this list. He also has that underdog-turned-superstar story that makes him even more lovable.

Read More: Ranking the 10 BEST Quarterbacks of the 2024 NFL Season

3. Tua Tagovailoa

Tua Tagovailoa
Miami Dolphins on YouTube

The most wholesome QB in the league. You just want to protect him from mean internet comments. His resilience through injuries and adversity makes him a truly inspiring player.

Read More: Every NFL Starting Quarterback, Ranked

2. Jalen Hurts

Jalen Hurts
Openverse

Composed, unbothered, and quietly dominant. Plus, his suit game is chef’s kiss. His leadership on and off the field makes him one of the most respected young quarterbacks.

Read More: Ranking the 30 Best NFL Quarterbacks Playing Now

1. Josh Allen

Josh Allen
Photo by All-Pro Reels

Big, goofy, and plays like a human wrecking ball. Fans love him, and his bromance with Mahomes is top-tier content. His willingness to put his body on the line for big plays makes him easy to root for.

Watch Now: Big plays. Fast takes. Check out TQR Shorts for the latest sports news with Zoe!

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