Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes lands in a very unfamiliar spot on a list he's typically led throughout his career. His selection to the "NFL Top 100" program was warranted again, but his placement will leave many around the league with questions. Chiefs fans will likely have plenty to say in defense of Mahomes earning a ranking of No. 18 on this year's list. The three-time Super Bowl MVP is returning after his 2025 campaign was cut short due to a severe knee injury. Last year's rankings ranked the Chiefs star quarterback No. 5, as voters were discouraged by the idea of Mahomes returning to form after knee surgery.
No. 18 on the NFL Top 100 Players of 2026…@Chiefs QB Patrick Mahomes! @NFLFilmspic.twitter.com/dP6n5bF6Uc — NFL (@NFL) August 18, 2026 Mahomes finished the 2025 season with 22 touchdown passes and 11 interceptions in 14 games before the knee injury. He also rushed for 422 yards and five touchdowns. He was named an alternate on the AFC Pro Bowl team before his season ended early. He is practicing with the team and hopes to play in Week 1 against the Denver Broncos. Produced by NFL Films and the X Original Series, the new season of NFL Top 100 features short-form episodes revealing the league's top players as voted on exclusively by current NFL players. Episodes debut on weekdays on X through Friday, September 4, and will air later on NFL+, as well as other NFL-owned-and-operated social media platforms. This article originally appeared on Chiefs Wire: Chiefs QB Patrick Mahomes ranks 18th on the 2026 'NFL Top 100'