Ranking AFC East Quarterbacks: Can Jets' Aaron Rodgers Overcome?

Ranking quarterbacks in the NFL is always challenging, especially in a team game where success depends heavily on the talent around them. True elites elevate their teams, turning potential into winning seasons. The AFC East features a mix of experienced veterans and emerging stars, making this year's quarterback rankings especially intriguing. At the center of attention is Aaron Rodgers, whose return could shift the balance in the division.

The Jets are entering the season with high expectations, eager to capitalize on Rodgers' experience and leadership to break their playoff drought. The team is building around Rodgers, whose return could be the spark needed to shift the balance in the AFC East. With a challenging opener against the San Francisco 49ers on September 9th, the Jets will need Rodgers at his best to start the season strong.

1. Josh Allen, Buffalo Bills
Josh Allen tops the AFC East quarterback rankings, primarily due to his unique blend of size, speed, and mobility, which sets him apart even from established elite like Aaron Rodgers on this list. Allen’s ability to make plays both through the air and on the ground is a key factor in his position. Despite some postseason struggles, Allen has led the Bills to consistent regular-season success, including four consecutive AFC East titles and three top-five MVP finishes.

However, Allen's ranking could fluctuate as he faces his first season without top target Stefon Diggs since 2020 and the departure of his secondary target Gabriel Davis. Additionally, Allen was recently voted as the "most overrated" player in the NFL by his peers, highlighting the scrutiny surrounding his performance. While his dual-threat ability has been pivotal, his turnover problems remain a concern. If he cannot elevate his new offensive weapons and cut down on mistakes, he could quickly fall behind Tua Tagovailoa or Rodgers in these rankings. His ability to adapt and maintain production under new circumstances will be crucial in determining if he can stay on top.

2. Tua Tagovailoa, Miami Dolphins
Tua Tagovailoa follows closely behind, with a strong chance to overtake Allen. Tagovailoa is coming off his best season in 2023, throwing for 4,624 yards and 29 touchdowns while leading Miami to back-to-back playoff appearances. However, the Dolphins' early exit in the Wild Card round last year puts them behind Allen and the Bills, who advanced to the Divisional Round before being knocked out by the Kansas City Chiefs—the eventual Super Bowl champions.

The Dolphins’ offense, featuring some of the fastest players in the NFL, such as Tyreek Hill, Jaylen Waddle, De'Von Achane, and Raheem Mostert, gives Tagovailoa the tools to compete for the top spot in the division. Tua's ranking is bolstered by the playmaking talent surrounding him, but his health and decision making remains critical factors. If he can stay healthy and continue to produce at a high level, he may challenge Allen for the top ranking, especially if Allen struggles with turnovers and fails to establish chemistry with his new receiving corps.

3. Aaron Rodgers, New York Jets
Aaron Rodgers ranks third in this list, a position largely influenced by age and the Achilles injury that prematurely ended his 2023 season after just three snaps with the Jets. If not for these factors, Rodgers would likely be at the top. Despite a disappointing 2022 season in Green Bay, Rodgers won back-to-back NFL MVPs in the two years prior, at ages 37 and 38, proving his elite status even in the later stages of his career.

Rodgers remains one of the most accomplished quarterbacks in the NFL, with four MVP awards, a Super Bowl title, and ten Pro Bowl selections. Rodgers enters 2024 as favorite for the Comeback Player of the Year. However, his ability to lead the Jets hinges on his recovery from injury and whether he can return to form at 40 years old. If he can, he could still provide a significant boost to a Jets franchise eager for success.

Related: Jets GM: 'We're A Team Ready to Win!'

4. Jacoby Brissett, New England Patriots
Jacoby Brissett rounds out the AFC East quarterback rankings as the starter for the New England Patriots. While Brissett brings experience and a steady presence, his career has often seen him as a bridge quarterback or backup rather than a long-term starter. Returning to New England on a one-year deal, Brissett is currently holding down the starting role, but rookie Drake Maye is waiting in the wings.

Brissett’s placement reflects his current role and history in the league. He will need to outperform expectations to hold his spot as the starter, especially with the Patriots looking toward the future with Maye.

With Aaron Rodgers aiming to prove his critics wrong and the Jets looking to climb the ranks in the AFC East, all eyes are on the upcoming season. As the Jets prepare for their Week 1 opener against the San Francisco 49ers on September 9th , the stage is set for Rodgers to redefine the narrative and potentially ascend to the top of this quarterback hierarchy.