After the Kansas City Chiefs defeated the Cincinnati Bengals in Week 2 of the 2024 season, defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo was caught on a microphone delivering high praise for the opposing quarterback.
Netflix’s new Quarterback series captured the moment when Spagnuolo approached Joe Burrow, telling him he viewed him as the league’s best quarterback behind Patrick Mahomes.
The comment has generated considerable discussion about where Burrow ranks among elite quarterbacks like Josh Allen and Lamar Jackson.
Former NFL receiver T.J. Houshmandzadeh was asked about Spagnuolo’s assessment during a recent appearance on FS1’s SPEAK.
“I do. I truly believe that. Why wouldn’t Spags believe that? Joe Burrow has a winning record against him. Josh Allen doesn’t. Lamar Jackson doesn’t either,” Houshmandzadeh said.
.@housh84 agrees with Coach Steve Spagnuolo calling Joe Burrow the 2nd best QB in the NFL:
“Why wouldn’t Spags believe that? Joe Burrow has a winning record against him. Josh Allen doesn’t. Lamar Jackson doesn’t either.” pic.twitter.com/LuyA6jfDd7
— Speak (@SpeakOnFS1) July 10, 2025
The numbers support that perspective. Since 2021, Burrow has faced Spagnuolo’s defense five times and emerged victorious in three of those matchups.
During those games, he accumulated 1,510 passing yards with 11 touchdowns against just three interceptions, demonstrating remarkable efficiency against one of the NFL’s most sophisticated defensive schemes.
Burrow’s 2024 campaign provided further evidence of his elite status.
After returning from wrist surgery, he started all 17 games and delivered MVP-caliber production with 4,918 passing yards, 43 touchdowns, and a 108.5 passer rating.
His performance earned him Comeback Player of the Year honors.
While Allen claimed the MVP award and Jackson continues to dazzle with his dual-threat abilities, Burrow’s pocket presence and composure under pressure set him apart.
His ability to elevate teammates in crucial moments has clearly impressed even opposing coaches like Spagnuolo.
