The National Football League is currently saturated with elite talent at the quarterback position, yet a significant number of these star players remain without a Super Bowl appearance. This paradox sets the stage for compelling narratives as the 2026 season kicks off.
Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen, the 2024 league MVP, has repeatedly faltered in the AFC championship game against Kansas City Chiefs signal-caller Patrick Mahomes. Allen has faced elimination in the conference title games of 2020 and 2024, following a memorable 2021 divisional playoff comeback where Mahomes orchestrated a 44-yard, 13-second drive to force overtime. Although Allen avoided Mahomes last season, the Bills were defeated early by rookie Bo Nix and the Denver Broncos, extending a franchise drought that dates back to four consecutive Super Bowl losses in the 1990s.
On the West Coast, Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert faces similar postseason struggles. Despite being ranked among the league’s top ten quarterbacks, Herbert has yet to secure a playoff win. Critics pointed to his performance against the Houston Texans last year, where he threw four interceptions, though the team also navigated a challenging injury list.
Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow offers a contrasting trajectory. He guided Cincinnati to the 2022 Super Bowl in just his second season and has historically troubled Mahomes in playoff matchups. However, his recent years have been marred by significant injuries, including a torn wrist ligament in 2023 and turf toe in 2025.
Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson, a two-time MVP, also looks to improve upon his 3-5 career playoff record.
Franchise changes during the offseason aim to tip the scales for these contenders. The Bengals bolstered their previously weak defense by trading for defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence II. The Chargers appointed offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel, while the Bills replaced head coach Sean McDermott with offensive coordinator Joe Brady. Additionally, the Ravens acquired edge rusher Trey Hendrickson after their attempt to sign Maxx Crosby fell through. As these strategic moves take effect, the league watches to see which quarterback will finally overcome the ultimate hurdle.
Wait, Bo Nix eliminated the Bills last season? Rookie quarterback drama in Denver—love it!
Lamar Jackson’s playoff record haunts me. Two MVPs and still no ring? The pressure is immense.
Dexter Lawrence for Bengals is huge. Burrow finally has the defensive piece to make another run.
Finally, someone acknowledges Herbert’s playoff drought! Coaching change better help him break through this year.
Joe Brady at Bills feels like a gamble. Can he really fix the Afc championship curse against Mahomes?