ESP Ranks Jalen Hurts as the NFL’s Second-Best Quarterback: Here’s Why

In the ever-heated debate over NFL quarterback rankings, few opinions stir the pot quite like those of analyst ESP (Evan Spencer Parker), a rising star in the world of football commentary known for his sharp takes and unapologetic confidence. So when ESP revealed his Top 5 NFL Quarterbacks for the 2025 season, fans and pundits alike were floored by one bold placement: Jalen Hurts at No. 2 overall, ahead of some of the league’s most decorated names.

What followed was an onslaught of questions, hot takes, and social media firestorms. But ESP didn’t back down—in fact, he welcomed the challenge and laid out exactly why Hurts deserved the lofty ranking.

The Full Top 5 (According to ESP)

Before diving into the rationale, here’s how ESP’s rankings shook out:

1. Patrick Mahomes – Kansas City Chiefs

2. Jalen Hurts – Philadelphia Eagles

3. Joe Burrow – Cincinnati Bengals

4. Josh Allen – Buffalo Bills

5. Lamar Jackson – Baltimore Ravens

While few were surprised to see Mahomes at No. 1, Hurts’ spot at second drew the most attention—particularly over Burrow and Allen, who have both had deep playoff success and consistent statistical production. But for ESP, Hurts’ value goes beyond the box score.

Leadership and Intangibles

“People want to talk about arm strength, passing yards, and MVPs,” ESP said during his live segment on Gridiron Weekly. “But they overlook the one thing that separates good quarterbacks from great ones: leadership under pressure. And Hurts is elite in that category.”

ESP emphasized that Hurts’ maturity, poise, and mental toughness set him apart.

“Since entering the league, Jalen Hurts has been doubted at every turn—Benched at Alabama, overlooked in the draft, questioned after his rookie year. But he just keeps working, keeps leading, and keeps winning. That’s the guy I want running my team.”

Dual-Threat Dominance

Another key factor in Hurts’ high placement: his ability to impact the game through both the air and the ground.

“Jalen Hurts isn’t just mobile—he’s strategically mobile,” ESP explained. “He doesn’t run because he’s panicking. He runs because he’s reading the defense and manipulating the game. There are very few QBs who can both throw a 40-yard strike in stride and pick up a game-changing 3rd-and-7 with his legs.”

In the 2024 season, Hurts accounted for over 4,000 combined passing and rushing yards and 37 total touchdowns. According to ESP, that kind of balanced production is what separates Hurts from the pack.

“Put it like this,” ESP added. “If you take away Mahomes, there’s no QB who stresses a defense the way Hurts does—play after play, quarter after quarter.”

Football IQ and Decision Making

Another area where ESP gives Hurts the edge is football intelligence.

“He doesn’t get enough credit for how smart he is on the field,” ESP said. “He’s constantly diagnosing defenses, changing protections, and executing reads that some quarterbacks can’t even recognize. He doesn’t turn the ball over recklessly. He protects possessions and makes winning plays.”

Analysts often laud quarterbacks like Burrow or Herbert for their cerebral play, but ESP contends that Hurts belongs in that same conversation—if not ahead.

“Hurts is processing the field at a very high level. And he does it while being a physical threat every down.”

Off-Field Impact

ESP also highlighted Hurts’ impact beyond the gridiron.

“Look at the locker room, the city, the fanbase—everyone buys in to Jalen Hurts. That matters. That kind of respect doesn’t come from flashy plays; it comes from work ethic, accountability, and consistency. He’s the kind of guy that transforms a culture.”

Hurts’ influence in Philadelphia has been profound, from leading deep playoff runs to inspiring young athletes across the country with his calm demeanor and commitment to excellence.

Final Thoughts: A QB Built for the Future

Ultimately, ESP believes Hurts represents the evolution of the modern quarterback—physically gifted, mentally sharp, emotionally mature.

“If I’m building a team and Mahomes is off the board, I’m taking Jalen Hurts—no hesitation,” ESP concluded. “He’s proven he can lead, win, adapt, and grow. He’s only getting better, and anyone who doesn’t have him in their Top 3 simply isn’t watching close enough.”

While the debate over quarterback rankings will never truly end, one thing is certain: Jalen Hurts is no longer under the radar. And thanks to ESP’s bold endorsement, his place among the NFL’s elite may finally be getting the recognition it deserves.