The quarterback position in the NFL is often the focal point of any team’s success, and when it comes to two of the most dynamic players in the league — Josh Allen and Lamar Jackson — the conversation around who has the edge as a superstar QB is both exciting and complex. Both players have already won an MVP award, both bring unique skill sets to the table, and both are considered among the top quarterbacks in the league today. But when it comes to breaking down who has the edge, there are several factors to consider: arm strength, mobility, leadership, consistency, and the ability to win games in clutch moments.
In this post, we’ll dive into the specifics of each quarterback’s skill set and assess which superstar has the edge in what areas. Let’s break it down.
### 1. **Arm Strength and Passing Ability**
When it comes to pure arm strength, Josh Allen arguably holds the edge. Known for his cannon of an arm, Allen has consistently displayed the ability to make throws at all levels of the field — whether it’s a deep bomb downfield or a precise sideline throw. His arm strength is a key reason why the Buffalo Bills offense has become so explosive, with Allen often finding wide receivers in tight windows or making deep throws that few quarterbacks in the league can match.
Allen has a powerful, athletic frame (6’5”, 237 pounds), and his arm strength allows him to make difficult throws under pressure. According to NFL Next Gen Stats, Allen has one of the highest average air yards per attempt, showcasing his ability to push the ball down the field consistently. This deep-ball accuracy is a hallmark of his game, making him a constant threat in the passing attack.
Lamar Jackson, on the other hand, is not known for the same level of raw arm strength. While Jackson’s arm is strong enough to make necessary throws, his skill set is built more around his athleticism and ability to make plays with his legs. Jackson’s deep ball accuracy has been a point of contention, but it’s important to note that his playing style and offensive system have been different. The Baltimore Ravens’ offense is structured around the run game and short to intermediate passes, with the occasional deep shot downfield.
**Edge: Josh Allen** — Allen’s elite arm strength gives him an advantage in passing situations, especially in terms of pushing the ball downfield. Jackson, however, is still more than capable of making the necessary throws within his system.
### 2. **Mobility and Running Ability**
This is where Lamar Jackson arguably has a clear edge. Jackson’s mobility is what sets him apart from almost every other quarterback in the league, and it’s been a huge factor in his success. He is the most electrifying running quarterback in NFL history, with a unique ability to evade tacklers and turn broken plays into huge gains. In 2019, Jackson became the first quarterback in NFL history to lead the league in rushing yards, and while he has evolved as a passer, his ability to run remains a deadly weapon.
Jackson’s agility, vision, and quickness allow him to operate outside of the pocket with ease, and he’s frequently able to pick up first downs or even break off long touchdown runs. His ability to break tackles and accelerate through defenses makes him a constant threat in the open field, and he’s arguably the best dual-threat quarterback in the NFL right now.
Allen is no slouch when it comes to mobility, either. While Jackson is more elusive and faster in open space, Allen is a load to bring down. Standing at 6’5” and 237 pounds, he can bulldoze defenders as well as scramble for big gains. His combination of speed and size allows him to excel in short-yardage situations, and he’s a powerful runner near the goal line. But when it comes to pure elusiveness and agility, Jackson is in a class of his own.
**Edge: Lamar Jackson** — While Josh Allen is an excellent runner and can bulldoze through defenders, Lamar Jackson’s speed, agility, and evasiveness give him the edge as the more dynamic and dangerous runner.
### 3. **Consistency and Development as a Passer**
Josh Allen has made incredible strides as a passer over the years, especially after a rough start to his career. Initially, Allen struggled with accuracy and decision-making, but under the guidance of offensive coordinator Brian Daboll, he transformed into one of the top quarterbacks in the league. His improvement in accuracy and his decision-making ability have been well-documented, making him a much more consistent passer. In 2020, Allen posted career highs in passing yards (4,544), touchdowns (37), and completion percentage (69.2%).
Lamar Jackson, while an MVP in 2019, has faced questions about his passing ability throughout his career. While he has shown tremendous growth as a passer, particularly in the 2020 and 2021 seasons, his mechanics, deep-ball accuracy, and overall consistency have been questioned at times. However, Jackson has also proven to be capable of making big throws in clutch situations and has the unique ability to win games in various ways. Jackson’s leadership, particularly in tough situations, has been a hallmark of his career.
Both quarterbacks have developed their passing games over time, but Allen’s strides have been more apparent in terms of raw passing consistency. His combination of deep-ball accuracy and ability to thread tight throws makes him one of the most dangerous passers in the league.
**Edge: Josh Allen** — While Lamar Jackson is certainly a capable passer, Josh Allen’s consistency and overall development as a passer give him an edge in this area.
### 4. **Clutch Performance and Leadership**
Both quarterbacks have shown the ability to perform under pressure and lead their teams when it matters most. Lamar Jackson has led the Ravens to multiple playoff appearances, including a dominant MVP season in 2019, where he broke several records and led the league in both passing and rushing touchdowns. Jackson’s ability to win games in a variety of ways, especially in the postseason, has earned him a reputation as a clutch performer. His ability to lead his team in comeback situations — whether through his legs or his arm — has been a key part of his success.
Josh Allen, too, has shown immense poise in clutch moments. In recent years, especially during Buffalo’s playoff runs, Allen has been a force to be reckoned with in high-pressure situations. His performance against the Kansas City Chiefs in the 2021 AFC Championship Game, where he led a back-and-forth battle with Patrick Mahomes, is a prime example of his clutch abilities. Allen’s leadership, combined with his ability to make key throws in critical moments, has placed him among the best in the league when it comes to performing under pressure.
**Edge: Tie** — Both quarterbacks have displayed excellent leadership and clutch performances in their careers. Allen’s ability to go toe-to-toe with the league’s elite quarterbacks in pressure situations is impressive, while Jackson’s resilience and ability to win in various ways give him equal merit.
### 5. **Overall Impact on the Game**
When it comes to overall impact, both Josh Allen and Lamar Jackson have transformed their respective offenses. Jackson’s ability to revolutionize the quarterback position with his dual-threat capabilities has led to an offensive shift in the NFL, with more teams now looking for quarterbacks who can be both passers and runners. His unique skill set has redefined the role of a quarterback, making him one of the most influential players in the league.
Allen, meanwhile, has been the face of a high-powered passing attack in Buffalo, and his development as one of the league’s top passers has transformed the Bills into perennial Super Bowl contenders. His ability to stretch the field, combined with his mobility and strength, makes him one of the most dangerous players in the league.
**Edge: Lamar Jackson** — While both players have made huge impacts, Jackson’s ability to change the way the quarterback position is played, combined with his electrifying style of play, gives him the edge.
### Conclusion
Ultimately, the decision of who has the edge between Josh Allen and Lamar Jackson comes down to personal preference and what qualities you value most in a quarterback. If you prioritize arm strength, passing consistency, and an elite ability to throw the ball downfield, Josh Allen likely takes the edge. However, if you value mobility, leadership, and the ability to revolutionize the position, Lamar Jackson holds a unique place in NFL history.
Both are MVP-caliber quarterbacks, and both are capable of leading their teams to Super Bowl victories. The NFL is lucky to have two such exciting and talented quarterbacks vying for greatness, and for fans, it’s a thrill to watch them both continue to develop.