u/DewberrySix

Disclaimer: This analysis is NOT based on any single specific TV show incarnation, but rather my own deep dive into the core personality traits, psychological baggage, and tactical potential of the brothers across the general lore. It’s a character-driven and narrative study from an analytical perspective, rather than a definitive ranking of canon power levels. Let's keep the comments chill and focused on character psychology!

I feel like if Leonardo wasn't burdened with being the oldest and the leader, he’d be just like his Rise incarnation; the traditional leader role suppressed his true self. On the other hand, Raphael is inherently unfit to lead—it has nothing to do with his temper, it’s purely a matter of tactical intelligence (sorry). My personal ranking for their leadership potential has always been Leo first, Mikey second, and Raph dead last.

I don‘t think Donatello is a better fit than Mikey. Mikey actually understands team coordination and emotional balance. He only acts childish right now because his brothers overprotect him, and he knows Leo is always there to shoulder the burden.

Honestly, Mikey could potentially be an even better leader than Leo, he just wouldn’t be the conventional type, which might make the narrative tone feel slightly bizarre. It fits a gag comic but doesn't quite match the traditional TMNT vibe. Yet, that doesn't mean he's incompatible with serious, angsty storylines. If he took the mantle and realized the weight of responsibility, he wouldn’t be so playful anymore. On top of that, he would have to consciously deal with and mask his ADHD traits (which, ironically, Rise Leo sort of does too). At that point, wouldn't Mikey basically become just like Peter Parker?