An online exchange among fans and an NFL analyst has sparked a debate over whether quarterback Patrick Mahomes’ capabilities and legacy are superior to Aaron Rodgers’. 

“I don't think Mahomes has passed Peyton Manning yet in terms of overall career. Could argue he hasn't passed (Aaron) Rodgers yet either,” Brett Kollmann wrote in his July 14 X post. “But I do want to submit a question to the class - what is the threshold Patrick has to hit to become the unquestioned #2 all time?”

Kollmann, the co-host of the Bootleg Football Podcast, was replying to another fan who was weighing in on Mahomes’ retirement. 

“Mahomes could retire today a top 4 QB all-time. So uh yeah. This run crowns him over just about anyone that's ever played the game,” Cole DeRuse, founder of HBTC media, said. 

The conversation started on July 13 when a fan weighed in on the 30-year-old Mahomes’ form after his season-ending injury last year. They asked whether his last few performances are good enough to place him over Ben “Big Ben” Roethlisberger, the former Pittsburgh Steelers QB. 

“Quick question chat, let’s assume Pat Mahomes is who we saw last year and never gets back to that form.. is a great 6 year run enough to crown him over the likes of Big Ben?” the question that started this thread read. 

The list of Pro Football Reference’s highest passing yards by QB in a season goes something like this: 

1. Peyton Manning: 5,477 yards in 2013. 
2. Drew Brees: 5,476 yards in 2011
3. Tom Brady:  5,316 yards in 2021
4. Patrick Mahomes: 5,250 yards in 2022
5. Tom Brady: 5,235 yards in 2011. 

Rodgers ranks No. 58 on the list that took 250 quarterbacks into account. He is the oldest active quarterback in the NFL, but has won just one Super Bowl title. It was in 2011 with the Green Bay Packers, and this season marks his 22nd NFL season. 

With three Super Bowl championships and two MVP awards, Mahomes, under head coach Andy Reid, revived the franchise after his debut. 

Pitting Mahomes against Roethlisberger, who was a frequent on the PRF list, sets the stage for a fitting competition. However, the comparison between Mahomes and Rodgers is lopsided. Kollmann’s take has little to no backing if stats and championships were the criteria for judgment. 

However, if MVP awards were accounted for, Rodgers, with four, triumphs over Mahomes, who has won it twice. Even then, Rodgers ties with Manning. The Chiefs quarterback, however, remains formidable despite his detrimental leg injury.

ESPN notes Patrick Mahomes as the second-best quarterback going into this season

On July 13, ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler released the list of the best quarterbacks to watch for in 2026. Based on the opinions of NFL scouts, coaches, and executives, Patrick Mahomes is No.2 on the list. 

Last year, he came first and switched places with the Buffalo Bills’ Josh Allen. Fowler wrote that no QB has gained respect the way Mahomes has after Tom Brady retired. 

“His 267 touchdown passes tie for second all-time for a quarterback's first nine seasons, trailing Peyton Manning (275),” he wrote. “And he’s third in passing yards (35,939) for any nine-year start.”

Mahomes sustained an ACL and LCL tear in his left knee towards season end. His return in Week 1 is not guaranteed. What do you think of this debate? 

Read more at the Kansas City Chiefs Community! 

Written by

Akanksha Biradar