Cam Newton criticizes Josh Allen's No. 1 QB ranking with Mahomes comparison

Cam Newton has blasted Josh Allen's new ranking as the NFL's top quarterback, arguing Patrick Mahomes' Super Bowl pedigree makes him the clear No. 1. The former MVP's criticism comes after Allen was voted the league's best QB in a survey of NFL executives, coaches and scouts.

What did Cam Newton say?

Newton, speaking on the 4th&1 podcast, questioned Allen's leadership after Buffalo's playoff loss to Denver. 'Josh Allen ain’t the reason why his team lost the last game against Denver,' he said. 'If you’re talking about the top of the list, you’re supposed to be the reason why we win, not why we lose.'

The former Panthers star called Allen his 'favorite player to watch' but argued he avoids blame. 'He don’t get the blame like everybody else can,' Newton said. 'You would have thought Josh Allen had Patrick Mahomes resume.'

Why does Mahomes have the edge?

Newton pointed to Mahomes' three Super Bowl titles as proof of his superiority. Allen, now 30, has never reached the Super Bowl. 'How do you win an MVP and you’re not First-team All-Pro?' Newton asked. 'Somebody has to say this.'

Mahomes' playoff success contrasts sharply with Allen's struggles. The Chiefs star has won three rings in five Super Bowl appearances, while Allen has just one playoff win in four seasons.

What's next for Allen?

Allen will look to silence critics in the 2026 season. The Bills open their campaign on September 10 against the New York Jets. With a new offensive coordinator and a revamped receiving corps, Allen has a chance to prove he belongs at the top of the QB rankings.

But Newton's comments highlight the pressure on Allen to deliver in the playoffs. Until he wins a Super Bowl, critics like Newton will continue to question his status as the NFL's best quarterback.