Kansas City Chiefs defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo recently declared Joe Burrow the NFL’s second-best quarterback, placing him directly behind Patrick Mahomes. This statement, made in July 2025, sparked considerable discussion across the league and renewed scrutiny of Josh Allen’s current standing among the NFL’s elite quarterbacks. The recognition of Burrow as the runner-up emphasizes a shift in perception regarding Allen’s role and impact on the highest level of competition.
Burrow’s elevation to this status gained further weight through endorsements by knowledgeable insiders. Former Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver T.J. Houshmandzadeh supported Spagnuolo’s viewpoint, citing Burrow’s winning record against the Chiefs’ defense under Spagnuolo. Houshmandzadeh highlighted that neither Allen nor Lamar Jackson have a winning record against the Chiefs, indirectly underscoring Allen’s struggles in critical matchups.
“Why wouldn’t Spags believe that? Joe Burrow has a winning record against him. Josh Allen doesn’t. Lamar Jackson doesn’t either.”
—T.J. Houshmandzadeh, Former Bengals Wide Receiver
Josh Allen’s Quest for the Top Quarterback Status
This latest public affirmation of Joe Burrow’s prowess brings into question whether Josh Allen still belongs to the NFL’s elite quarterback tier. Allen has long been known for his blend of raw talent, leadership, and dynamic playmaking ability, notably as the catalyst for Buffalo Bills’ many comeback victories. Despite accumulating impressive statistics—including over 4,300 passing yards and 44 touchdowns last season—his postseason performance continues to be a sticking point among fans and analysts.
In contrast to Burrow’s calm and effective playoff presence, Allen’s teams have repeatedly fallen short in January, including a Divisional Round exit that once again saw the Bills miss opportunities for deeper postseason success. While Allen’s regular seasons have proven his ability to put up productive numbers, the inability to secure a Super Bowl appearance continues to impact his respect within elite quarterback conversations.
Comparing the Recent Playoff Success of Top QBs
Joe Burrow’s playoff resume includes two AFC Championship game appearances and a Super Bowl showing, achievements that distinguish him in the current landscape. Alongside Burrow, other quarterbacks such as Lamar Jackson—with an MVP award and an AFC title game run—and Patrick Mahomes—already considered a Hall of Fame caliber player—maintain clear footholds in the league’s upper echelon.
Josh Allen, meanwhile, has yet to secure a similar signature postseason breakthrough despite flashes of brilliance throughout his career. This ongoing lack of defining victories has fueled the debate over his classification as an elite quarterback.
The Impact of Team Changes and Perception on Allen’s Status
Allen’s journey has been complicated by several internal team challenges, including the departure of offensive coordinator Brian Daboll in 2022, which has been viewed as a significant setback. Additionally, the drama surrounding wide receiver Stefon Diggs and a perceived weakness in supporting receiver depth have placed further pressure on Allen’s production. Nevertheless, Allen’s individual statistics have remained robust amid these disruptions.
Despite this durability, the shifting narrative surrounding Allen’s standing emphasizes a subtle but growing perception that, while admired for his talent and toughness, he does not yet command the same reverence or fear as Burrow or Mahomes. Spagnuolo’s remarks underscore this evolving view, suggesting Allen’s position at the summit of NFL quarterbacks is less secure than before.
What Spagnuolo’s Comments Mean for Josh Allen’s Future
Steve Spagnuolo’s endorsement of Joe Burrow as second-best quarterback resonates beyond mere opinion from another coach. Having built one of the NFL’s most dominant defenses and faced nearly every elite quarterback in recent years, his perspective carries considerable weight. Along with Houshmandzadeh’s remarks, it sends a clear message about how Allen’s impact is measured against his peers.
For Allen, this means that despite consistent individual excellence, his recognition as a true elite quarterback hinges on clearing the persistent barriers in the playoffs and solidifying his postseason legacy. Until the Bills overcome their January struggles and Allen leads the team deeper into the postseason or to a championship, his elite status will continue to be examined and debated.
Allen’s Continuing Challenge to Prove Himself in the NFL’s Upper Tier
The ongoing debate highlights Allen’s familiar predicament: the need to reconcile his regular season accomplishments with a stronger postseason presence. While Allen remains a formidable force capable of spectacular performances, his inability to break through when it matters most keeps his place in the conversation precarious.
The focus will remain on the coming seasons, as fans, coaches, and analysts watch whether Allen can elevate his game under playoff pressure and redefine his legacy. Until then, Joe Burrow’s reputation and steady rise represent a shifting quarterback hierarchy that questions whether Allen still belongs among the league’s very best.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Joe Burrow a millionaire?
A. As of September 2024, Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow has a net worth of $50 million. This wealth comes from his NFL contract and deals with companies such as Nike and Bose. In 2023, he signed a contract extension worth $275 million, which placed him among the top earners in the league.
Q. Does Joe Burrow like Harry Potter?
A. I still dislike horror films. I’m not a fan of haunted houses or similar things. I couldn’t watch shows like Harry Potter, Lord of the Rings, or House. Instead, I preferred cartoons like SpongeBob, and channels like Disney and Nickelodeon. There’s absolutely nothing wrong with enjoying Disney Channel.
Q. Is Joe Burrow underpaid?
A. Joe Burrow plays as a quarterback for the Cincinnati Bengals. In 2023, he signed a new five-year contract for $275 million. This deal made him the NFL’s highest-paid player at that time.