Sportsnaut has released its updated NFL quarterback rankings ahead of Week 9 of the 2026 season, with Cincinnati Bengals star Joe Burrow claiming the top spot after a historic performance, while Atlanta Falcons' Michael Penix Jr. suffered a dramatic drop following his worst career start.
Burrow's Record-Setting Day Secures No. 1
Burrow completed 38 of 48 passes for 462 yards and five touchdowns in a win over the Tennessee Titans, tying his career high for touchdowns in a game. However, he also threw three interceptions, all to safety Amani Hooker. Receivers Tee Higgins and Ja'Marr Chase each surpassed 140 receiving yards, underscoring the Bengals' explosive passing attack. The former No. 1 overall pick moved up from third last week to lead the rankings.
Penix Falls to 18th After Nightmare Outing
In stark contrast, Penix Jr. plummeted 11 places to 18th after completing just 8 of 24 attempts for 125 yards with a career-high four interceptions in a rainy loss. The third-year quarterback had been performing like a top-10 signal-caller since returning from last season's ACL tear, but the performance was described as "embarrassing" despite the difficult conditions.
Top 10 Roundup
Josh Allen remains second, leading the NFL with 20 total touchdowns (11 passing, 9 rushing) while guiding the Buffalo Bills to a 6-1 record. Jared Goff drops to third after throwing his first interception of the season against a stout Detroit Lions defense. Trevor Lawrence climbs to fourth with an efficient 10-of-14, 210-yard, three-touchdown outing. Brock Purdy falls to fifth after his first multi-turnover game of the season. Kirk Cousins (sixth), Caleb Williams (seventh), Patrick Mahomes (eighth), C.J. Stroud (ninth), and Jordan Love (tenth) round out the top tier.
Notable Struggles at the Bottom
Daniel Jones sits last at 32nd after a 19-of-28, 144-yard performance with two interceptions and three sacks in a 42-7 loss. Justin Herbert (31st) continues to lead the league in interceptions with 10. Tanner McKee (30th) and Jacoby Brissett (29th) also struggle, with Brissett losing his starting job to Gardner Minshew III. Rookie Cam Ward (28th) provided a bright spot with his first career 300-yard game despite an overtime loss.
