Patrick Mahomes has held a 99 overall rating in Madden for five straight years, establishing himself as the game’s undisputed top quarterback. That streak ended Thursday when a shocking demotion caused NFL fans to question everything they thought they knew about how greatness gets measured.
Why Did EA Sports Drop Chiefs QB Patrick Mahomes to a 95 Rating?
Over the past seven years, no quarterback has been as dominant and respected in the NFL as Kansas City Chiefs QB Patrick Mahomes. His three Super Bowl titles, two MVPs, and continued dominance over the AFC back that up, which has always been reflected in his annual Madden rating.
Since Madden 20, Mahomes consistently held a 99 overall rating, but that streak ended this year. He was given just a 95, placing him behind Josh Allen and Lamar Jackson, who both received 99, and Joe Burrow, rated at 97. As expected, fans didn’t take it well, calling the ranking “extremely disrespectful.”
95 is extremely disrespectful https://t.co/DVaaNJ3vPf
— Ale (@percaholicccc) July 31, 2025
Another fan commented, “Never thought I’d see the day where Patrick Mahomes became the most underrated QB in the league, but here we are.” That reaction reflects the drop in Mahomes’ numbers over the past two seasons, contrasting his earlier years when he regularly put up eye-popping stats.
Never thought I’d see the day where Patrick Mahomes became the most underrated qb in the league but here we are https://t.co/WYfVm9gDBv
— James (@JamesMMA10) July 31, 2025
The numbers tell the story behind EA’s decision. In 2023, Mahomes threw for 4,183 yards and 27 touchdowns with 14 interceptions. Last season, those numbers dipped to 3,928 yards, 26 touchdowns, and 11 interceptions, which likely factored into EA’s decision to lower his rating.
How Do the Top-Rated Quarterbacks Compare to Mahomes’ Championships?
One fan pointed out the glaring issue with the current rankings. The top three quarterbacks in the Madden ratings, Allen, Jackson, and Burrow, have yet to win a Super Bowl. Mahomes has already won three.
Of that group, only Burrow has even reached the big game, losing to the Rams in the 2021 season. Allen and Jackson have both been stopped by Mahomes in the AFC title game.
0 Super Bowl winning Quarterbacks in the top 3. Make it make sense. Madden has gone downhill https://t.co/bXGFo23ekc
— Jeffrey Cassell (@The_Mango_Peach) July 31, 2025
However, based on 2024 alone, Jackson, Allen, and Burrow all had statistically better seasons. Each made a strong case for MVP, with Allen ultimately winning the award and Jackson earning First Team All-Pro honors. Mahomes’ greatest strength remains his ability to elevate in the playoffs, even in down years.
Another fan wrote, “Mahomes being 4th best don’t sit right with me.” Given his career accomplishments, the frustration is understandable. But entering 2025, the quarterbacks above him are in better form and have earned their spots.
Mahomes being 4th best dont sit right with me
— james (@futtywap) July 31, 2025
That said, a 95 rating may still feel too low for someone many consider the second-greatest quarterback of all time behind Tom Brady. The reaction might have been more balanced if he had been rated on par with Burrow at 97.
Mahomes 95 is too low
— All Goats FF 🏈 (@AllGoatsFF) July 31, 2025
Madden 26 is set to launch on August 14, giving fans their first chance to see if Mahomes can prove the ratings wrong on the virtual field. For now, the debate rages on about whether recent performance should outweigh championship pedigree in determining who deserves the top spot.
