SI’s 2026 NFL Preseason QB Rankings: Reigning MVP Matthew Stafford Is No. 3

Sports Illustrated has released its 2026 NFL preseason quarterback rankings, positioning reigning MVP Matthew Stafford at the number three spot. This ranking follows a season of significant individual success for Stafford, whose status as the current MVP underscores his position among the league's elite players. The coverage highlights a period of high performance for the quarterback, with discussions centering on his current standing and his trajectory within the league as the 2026 season approaches. Various media outlets are analyzing Stafford's current form and historical impact. Yahoo Sports emphasizes that his MVP season serves as definitive proof of his elite status in the NFL.

Similarly, Turf Show Times suggests that Stafford's second act could potentially be regarded as the best in the history of the NFL. Heavy.com reports that the former Lions quarterback continues to receive positive career news, reflecting a broad trend of professional acclaim across different sporting news platforms. Contextual coverage provides a look at the professional divide between Stafford's current team and his previous organization. Ramblin' Fan notes that the Detroit Lions are experiencing a painful reminder of Stafford's ascent with the Los Angeles Rams. This dynamic adds a layer of narrative tension to his success, as the team that once employed him watches his continued dominance from a distance.

The transition from the Lions to the Rams is framed as a pivotal shift that facilitated his rise to the top of the quarterback rankings. Observers will be monitoring Stafford's performance as the 2026 season begins to see if he can maintain his elite standing. The focus remains on whether his current momentum can translate into further accolades or a higher ranking than the third position currently assigned by Sports Illustrated. Future developments will likely center on how his performance compares to the two quarterbacks ranked above him in the preseason list, though specific names for those top two slots were not provided in the current coverage.