Top 5 quarterback draft classes of the last decade

Quarterback draft classes can end up shaping the NFL for years, sometimes even decades. Every year, teams go in hoping they’ve found their next franchise guy, but only a handful of classes really deliver on that hype. Since 2015, we’ve seen a pretty wide range of outcomes. Some drafts have produced MVP-level stars who change the way the game is played, while others have given us solid starters without much else. And then there are those rare classes that hit on both top-end talent and real depth, which is what separates the good from the truly great.

What makes this conversation even more fun is how quickly things can change. A class that looks stacked early on might fall off, while another quietly develops into something special over time. Player development, coaching situations, and team fit all play a huge role in how these careers turn out. That’s why looking back at these classes now gives us a much clearer picture than we had on draft night. You can really see which groups delivered, which ones underwhelmed, and which ones still have something to prove.

Visit extonnews.click for more information.

MORE: Former NFL quarterback Colin Kaepernick makes big announcement on social media

This ranking aims to look at the top quarterback draft classes since 2015, factoring in both peak performance and overall depth. From superstar-led groups to well-rounded classes loaded with talent, here’s how they stack up in reverse order.

5. 2017 QB draft class: Patrick Mahomes 

Dec 14, 2025; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes (15) throws a pass during the second half against the Los Angeles Chargers at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jay Biggerstaff-Imagn Images

The 2017 class ranks fifth, carried heavily by Patrick Mahomes alone. Mahomes completely changes how we look at this group with his MVPs and Super Bowls. Outside of him, though, there just isn’t much long-term starting talent here. That lack of depth really holds this class back compared to the others. It’s basically one superstar doing all the heavy lifting for the entire group.

4. 2016 QB draft class: Jared Goff, Carson Wentz, Jacoby Brissett, and Dak Prescott 

Feb 1, 2026; San Francisco, CA, USA; Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott (4) and Detroit Lions quarterback Jared Goff (16) during NFC practice at the Flag Fieldhouse Moscone Center South Building. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

This class has a good mix of starters and dependable players across the league. Goff and Prescott have been steady, leading playoff teams and putting up strong numbers. Wentz had a really high peak early on but couldn’t quite sustain that level. Brissett has been valuable as a fill-in starter and experienced backup option. Overall, it’s a solid group, just missing that consistent elite tier at the top.

MORE: ESPN analyst issues warning on Lamar Jackson’s Ravens future after 2026

3. 2020 QB draft class: Joe Burrow, Tua Tagovailoa, Justin Herbert, Jordan Love, and Jalen Hurts 

Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow (9) looks for hands to shake after the fourth quarter of the NFL Week 18 game between the Cincinnati Bengals and the Cleveland Browns at Paycor Stadium in Downtown Cincinnati on January 4, 2026. Credit: Sam Greene/The Enquirer / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

The 2020 class really stands out because it has both stars and depth. Burrow and Hurts have already made Super Bowl runs with Hurts even winning one, showing they can lead contenders. Herbert puts up big numbers every year, while Tua has thrived in the right system. Love’s breakout adds even more strength to an already deep group. It’s one of the most complete quarterback classes we’ve seen in a while.

2. 2024 QB draft class: Caleb Williams, Jayden Daniels, Drake Maye, and Bo Nix

Feb 8, 2026; Santa Clara, CA, USA; New England Patriots quarterback Drake Maye (10) against the Seattle Seahawks during Super Bowl LX at Levi’s Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

This class ranks high mostly because of its upside and early excitement. Williams came in with superstar expectations and the talent to back it up. Daniels brings electric playmaking, while Maye has the size and arm teams love. Nix adds experience and looks like a steady option at the next level. If things break right, this group could end up being even better than expected.

1. 2018 QB draft class: Baker Mayfield, Sam Darnold, Josh Allen, and Lamar Jackson 

Dec 29, 2019; Orchard Park, New York, USA; New York Jets quarterback Sam Darnold (right) and Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen (left) pose for a photo after a jersey exchange following the game at New Era Field. Mandatory Credit: Rich Barnes-Imagn Images

The 2018 class takes the top spot because it delivers both stars and staying power. Allen and Jackson have played at MVP levels and changed how the position looks. Mayfield and Darnold haven’t been perfect, but they’ve still been consistent starters, with Darnold’s recent Super Bowl victory adding depth to it. That mix of elite talent and solid depth really separates this group. It’s the kind of class teams hope for when they’re searching for a franchise quarterback.

MORE: Celebrities who attended Seahawks QB Sam Darnold’s lavish wedding

Conclusion

Looking back at these classes, it’s clear there’s no single formula for quarterback success. Some groups are defined by one all-time great, while others stand out because of their depth. The 2018 class sets the bar with both elite talent and staying power, but the 2020 group isn’t far behind. Meanwhile, the 2024 class still has time to rise or fall depending on how things develop. That’s what makes this so interesting. A few years from now, this ranking could look completely different as careers continue to unfold.

Read at source