An unexpected quarterback takes the top spot in a former GM’s ranking of the 2020 NFL draft class for quarterbacks.

Recent impressive performances by Jordan Love have garnered praise from a former general manager. Rick Spielman, who served as the Vikings’ GM from 2012 to 2021, expressed his admiration for the 25-year-old quarterback. In a ranking of the 2020 NFL draft class quarterbacks for the next five years on CBS’ “With the First Pick” podcast, Spielman placed Love at the top, followed by Joe Burrow, Justin Herbert, Jalen Hurts, and Tua Tagovailoa.

Spielman’s ranking is surprising for several reasons. Jordan Love was selected second-to-last at the 26th overall pick in the 2020 NFL Draft, with only Jalen Hurts chosen after him at 53rd overall. Love also has the least starting experience among the mentioned quarterbacks, having sat behind Aaron Rodgers for his first three NFL seasons. In contrast, Burrow, Herbert, Hurts, and Tagovailoa have each played in 52 or more games over the last four seasons, compared to Love’s 27 starts.

Despite the accomplishments of the other quarterbacks, such as Super Bowl appearances, MVP considerations, and notable statistical achievements, Love stands out as the only one still in the playoffs. The Packers’ victory over the Cowboys in the wild-card round marked them as the first No. 7 seed to win a playoff game, and the youngest team to win in the postseason since the NFL/AFL merger in 1970.

With an upcoming matchup against the 49ers, a win for Love could further solidify his standing among the top quarterbacks from his draft class and in the league overall.