Ranking the Top 20 NFL Quarterbacks of All Time

When evaluating the NFL’s top quarterbacks of all time, several factors must be considered, including statistical performance, championship success, and impact on the game.

Tom Brady and Joe Montana are frequently cited as the best due to their multiple Super Bowl victories and clutch performances in critical moments. However, a comprehensive analysis requires examining quarterbacks from different eras and playing styles.

Peyton Manning’s strategic approach to the game, characterized by his ability to read defenses and make pre-snap adjustments, contrasts with Brett Favre’s improvisational skills and durability.

Johnny Unitas, a pioneer of the modern passing game, set standards that influenced subsequent generations of quarterbacks.

Statistical comparisons across eras can be challenging due to rule changes and evolving offensive strategies. For instance, passing yards and touchdowns have generally increased over time, making it necessary to contextualize a quarterback’s performance within their era.

Key metrics for evaluation include:

  1. Passing yards and touchdowns
  2. Completion percentage
  3. Passer rating
  4. Wins and playoff success
  5. MVP awards and Pro Bowl selections
  6. Longevity and consistency

Additionally, intangible factors such as leadership, adaptability, and performance under pressure contribute to a quarterback’s overall ranking.

The debate over the greatest quarterbacks of all time remains ongoing, with new talent continually emerging to challenge established legacies.

Tom Brady: A Legacy Defined

Tom Brady’s standing as a notable quarterback in the NFL can be attributed to several factors.

His career longevity and consistent performance since entering the league in 2000 are significant aspects of his legacy. Brady’s thorough preparation and comprehensive understanding of football strategies have contributed to his success.

Brady’s ability to adapt to different offensive systems and coaching styles has been a key element of his career. This adaptability extends to his capacity to perform effectively against evolving defensive schemes in the NFL.

His sustained high-level performance in various team environments demonstrates his versatility as a player.

Beyond his on-field achievements, Brady has influenced NFL culture in other ways. His strict dietary and fitness regimens have gained attention and influenced other players’ approaches to health and conditioning.

Brady’s leadership style, characterized by a strong competitive drive and supportive attitude towards teammates, has been associated with team cohesion and success.

These combined factors – long-term performance, adaptability, off-field influence, and leadership – have contributed to Brady’s reputation in professional football.

His career provides a case study in sustained excellence in the NFL, offering insights into the qualities that can lead to long-term success in professional sports.

Joe Montana: Clutch Performer

Joe Montana’s reputation as a clutch performer is based on his ability to perform effectively under pressure.

His performance in critical moments, particularly during playoff games and Super Bowls, demonstrates this capability. A notable example is the 1989 Super Bowl XXIII, where Montana threw a game-winning touchdown pass to John Taylor with 34 seconds remaining.

Montana’s playoff record provides statistical evidence of his clutch performance. He won four Super Bowl titles with the San Francisco 49ers, actively contributing to these victories.

His postseason quarterback rating of 95.6 further supports his effectiveness in high-stakes situations.

Montana’s success in pressure situations can be attributed to both physical skills and mental composure.

His ability to read defenses and maintain focus during crucial moments contributed to his success in orchestrating game-winning drives.

It is important to note that while Montana’s clutch performances are widely recognized, the concept of “clutch” in sports is subject to debate among analysts and researchers.

Some argue that consistent high-level performance is more valuable than isolated moments of brilliance in high-pressure situations.

Montana’s career exemplifies the importance of maintaining composure and executing effectively in high-pressure situations in professional sports, particularly in the quarterback position in American football.

Peyton Manning: Strategic Genius

Peyton Manning’s strategic approach to football set him apart from many of his contemporaries. His pre-snap routines involved reading defensive formations and adjusting plays accordingly, often resulting in successful offensive outcomes.

This ability to analyze and adapt at the line of scrimmage became a hallmark of his playing style.

Manning’s preparation methods were notably thorough. He devoted significant time to studying game film, analyzing opposing teams’ defensive patterns and tendencies.

This level of preparation contributed to his effectiveness on the field and his reputation as one of the most analytically-minded quarterbacks in NFL history.

As a team leader, Manning’s influence extended beyond play-calling. He actively mentored teammates and set high standards through his own performance and work ethic.

His in-game adaptability was particularly noteworthy, allowing him to adjust strategies as needed during crucial moments.

Manning’s career statistics support his reputation for strategic play. He accumulated over 71,000 passing yards and received multiple MVP awards.

These achievements reflect not only his physical abilities but also his deep understanding of football strategy and tactics.

Manning’s strategic acumen is a key factor in discussions about the greatest quarterbacks in NFL history.

His approach to the game demonstrated that success in football relies not only on physical skill but also on intellectual capacity and preparation.

Johnny Unitas: Old-School Legend

Johnny Unitas was a significant figure in American football history, known for his contributions to the development of the quarterback position. He played in an era characterized by less complex strategies and fewer technological aids compared to modern football.

Unitas was notable for his ability to call plays independently, without relying on coaches’ input during the game.

This skill demonstrated his deep understanding of football strategy and his ability to read defenses effectively. His approach to the game influenced the evolution of the quarterback role in subsequent decades.

One of Unitas’ most significant records was his streak of consecutive games with a touchdown pass, which stood for 52 years before being broken in 2012.

This achievement underscores his consistency and skill as a passer over an extended period.

Unitas was known for his durability and ability to play through injuries, a trait that was more common and expected in his era of professional football.

His leadership style and on-field demeanor were characterized by calmness and composure, attributes that became highly valued in quarterbacks.

While Unitas’ playing style and the football environment of his time differed significantly from today’s game, his impact on the sport is still recognized.

Many of the fundamental skills he exemplified, such as reading defenses and making quick decisions, remain crucial for modern quarterbacks, despite the increased complexity of offensive systems and defensive schemes in contemporary football.

Brett Favre: Gunslinger Supreme

Brett Favre’s career as a quarterback was characterized by a bold playing style and exceptional arm strength.

His tenure, primarily with the Green Bay Packers, demonstrated a combination of power and improvisation in his gameplay.

Favre’s statistical achievements include three MVP awards, 11 Pro Bowl selections, and becoming the first quarterback to reach 500 touchdown passes.

His durability was evident in his streak of 297 consecutive game starts, an NFL record for quarterbacks.

Known for his ability to lead fourth-quarter comebacks, Favre’s performance often resulted in turning potential losses into victories.

His enthusiastic demeanor on the field was notable, frequently celebrating with teammates after successful plays.

Favre’s approach to the game was marked by a willingness to take risks, often attempting difficult passes that other quarterbacks might avoid.

This style of play, while sometimes leading to interceptions, also produced many memorable plays and contributed to his reputation as an exciting player to watch.

His career spanned 20 seasons, during which he set numerous NFL records, including most career passing yards and touchdowns at the time of his retirement.

Favre’s impact on the quarterback position influenced subsequent generations of players, promoting a more aggressive passing style in the NFL.

Dan Marino: The Passing Master

Dan Marino, a notable quarterback in NFL history, was renowned for his exceptional passing skills and precision in the game. His career was marked by significant achievements, particularly in the passing game.

Marino’s 1984 season stands out as a landmark in NFL records. He set new standards with 5,084 passing yards and 48 touchdowns, records that remained unbroken for decades. This performance demonstrated the potential of a pass-oriented offense in the NFL.

One of Marino’s distinguishing characteristics was his quick release and decision-making ability. These skills, combined with his arm strength, allowed him to effectively navigate defenses and execute plays with high efficiency.

Throughout his career, Marino accumulated numerous accolades, including nine Pro Bowl selections. His induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame further solidifies his status as one of the sport’s elite quarterbacks.

It is worth noting that despite his individual accomplishments, Marino didn’t secure a Super Bowl victory during his career. However, this fact doesn’t significantly detract from his overall impact on the game and his reputation as a highly skilled passer.

Marino’s career statistics and gameplay analysis support the assessment that he was a highly proficient quarterback, particularly in terms of passing ability. His performances consistently demonstrated a high level of skill in reading defenses and delivering accurate passes, contributing to his reputation as a master of the passing game.

John Elway: Resilient Leader

John Elway, recognized as a resilient leader in professional football, led his team through numerous challenging situations during his career.

He faced significant setbacks, including three Super Bowl losses early on, but continued to perform at a high level. A notable example of his leadership occurred during the 1986 AFC Championship game against the Cleveland Browns, where Elway orchestrated a 98-yard drive that became known as “The Drive.”

This event demonstrated his ability to perform under pressure and make critical plays when needed.

Elway’s career was characterized by his proficiency in fourth-quarter comebacks, which became a consistent feature of his gameplay.

His performance in Super Bowl XXXII at age 37 is particularly noteworthy, as he led the Denver Broncos to victory against the Green Bay Packers and earned his first Super Bowl MVP award.

After retiring as a player, Elway transitioned to a front office role with the Broncos, where he continued to influence the team’s direction and strategy.

This transition demonstrates that his leadership abilities extended beyond his on-field contributions.

Elway’s legacy in professional football is based on both his athletic performance and his leadership qualities.

His career serves as an example of perseverance and adaptability in professional sports, as he overcame early setbacks to achieve significant success later in his playing career and in his post-playing role as an executive.

Drew Brees: Record Breaker

Drew Brees’ career in the NFL was characterized by numerous record-breaking achievements, particularly in passing statistics.

Despite not possessing the typical physical stature associated with elite quarterbacks, Brees excelled in several key areas:

  1. Career passing yards: Brees accumulated 80,358 yards, surpassing previous record holders like Peyton Manning and Brett Favre.

  2. Pass completions: He completed 7,142 passes, the highest in NFL history.

  3. Touchdown passes: Brees threw 571 touchdown passes, placing him among the top performers in this category.

A significant milestone in Brees’ career occurred in 2018 during a game against the Washington Redskins.

He broke Peyton Manning’s previous record of 71,940 career passing yards with a 62-yard touchdown pass.

Brees’ 20-season tenure in the NFL was marked by consistent high-level performance and statistical dominance.

His retirement in 2021 left a legacy of records that serve as benchmarks for future quarterbacks.

The longevity and consistency of Brees’ career, coupled with his statistical achievements, underscore his impact on the sport and his place among the most prolific passers in NFL history.

His records remain significant benchmarks in evaluating quarterback performance in the league.

Aaron Rodgers: Precision and Mobility

Aaron Rodgers has established himself as a prominent figure in NFL history through his distinctive playing style.

Rodgers is known for his accuracy, both from within the pocket and when mobile. This combination of precision and mobility has redefined expectations for quarterbacks, demonstrating that movement doesn’t necessarily compromise throwing accuracy.

Statistically, Rodgers’ career quarterback rating ranks among the highest in NFL history, indicating a high level of efficiency in his play.

His quick release is a notable aspect of his game, often complicating defensive strategies. Rodgers’ decision-making process is rapid, frequently resulting in significant plays that can alter the course of a game.

When faced with a collapsing pocket, Rodgers has shown an ability to extend plays effectively.

His footwork and field vision are key components of this skill. These attributes allow him to adapt to changing situations on the field and maintain offensive momentum.

Rodgers’ playing style combines traditional pocket passing with the ability to create opportunities outside of standard offensive structures.

This versatility has contributed to his success and reputation in the NFL. His approach to quarterback play represents an evolution in the position, blending elements of precision passing with the advantages of mobility.

Steve Young: Dual-Threat Strategy

Steve Young’s career as a quarterback was characterized by his dual-threat capabilities, combining effective passing with significant rushing ability.

This approach allowed Young to expand the traditional role of a quarterback, creating additional offensive options and challenges for opposing defenses.

Young’s mobility served multiple purposes on the field. It enabled him to evade pressure from defensive lines, extend plays, and gain yardage on designed runs or improvised scrambles.

This versatility often forced defenses to allocate resources to contain his running threat, potentially opening up passing opportunities.

Statistically, Young’s dual-threat strategy produced notable results. He holds several NFL records that reflect his balanced skill set, including the most rushing touchdowns by a quarterback (43) at the time of his retirement.

His career passer rating of 96.8 and rushing average of 5.9 yards per carry further illustrate his effectiveness in both aspects of the game.

Young’s playing style influenced the evolution of the quarterback position. His success demonstrated that mobility could be a significant asset for a quarterback, rather than merely a fallback option.

This approach has since been adopted and adapted by subsequent generations of quarterbacks, contributing to the increased emphasis on quarterback mobility in modern NFL offenses.

The impact of Young’s dual-threat strategy extended beyond his individual performance. It required defenses to develop new strategies to counter mobile quarterbacks, leading to tactical innovations on both sides of the ball.

This legacy continues to shape how teams approach quarterback play and defensive schemes in professional football.

Roger Staubach: Mr. Clutch

Roger Staubach, known as “Mr. Clutch,” was a significant figure in the Dallas Cowboys’ success during the 1970s. His reputation for late-game comebacks contributed to this nickname.

Staubach led the Cowboys to two Super Bowl victories, demonstrating consistent leadership throughout his career.

Staubach’s ability to perform under pressure was a defining characteristic of his playing style. He maintained composure in high-stakes situations, often executing successful plays when the team was trailing with little time remaining.

This skill was particularly evident in close games and playoff scenarios.

One of Staubach’s most notable moments occurred during the 1975 playoffs against the Minnesota Vikings. He completed a long touchdown pass in the final seconds, which became known as a “Hail Mary” pass. This play is often cited as an example of Staubach’s clutch performance and has become part of NFL lore.

Staubach’s career statistics and achievements support his reputation as a reliable quarterback in crucial moments. His overall win-loss record, playoff performances, and individual accolades provide quantitative evidence of his impact on the Cowboys’ success during his tenure.

The “Mr. Clutch” moniker has endured beyond Staubach’s playing career, influencing how his legacy is perceived in NFL history.

His performances in critical situations have become a benchmark for evaluating quarterback play under pressure in subsequent generations.

Terry Bradshaw: Steely Winner

Terry Bradshaw was a prominent NFL quarterback for the Pittsburgh Steelers during the 1970s. He led the team to four Super Bowl victories in a six-year span, establishing himself as one of the most successful quarterbacks in league history.

Bradshaw’s strong arm and determination were key factors in the Steelers’ offensive success during a highly competitive era in professional football.

Bradshaw’s performance under pressure was a defining characteristic of his playing style. He demonstrated proficiency in critical third-down situations and long-distance passes.

In Super Bowl XIII, Bradshaw threw for 318 yards and four touchdowns, exemplifying his ability to perform well in high-stakes games.

Although Bradshaw faced challenges early in his career, he showed significant improvement over time. Initially prone to errors, he developed into a formidable quarterback, earning two Super Bowl MVP awards and four Pro Bowl selections.

His career trajectory illustrates a notable progression from an inconsistent player to one of the most respected quarterbacks in the NFL.

Bradshaw’s legacy in professional football is marked by his achievements and his impact on the game. His four Super Bowl wins and individual accolades contribute to his standing as a significant figure in NFL history.

Bradshaw’s career demonstrates the importance of perseverance and adaptability in achieving long-term success in professional sports.

Troy Aikman: Precision Passer

Troy Aikman was a key figure in the Dallas Cowboys’ success during the early 1990s. As the team’s quarterback, he played a significant role in their offensive strategy and overall performance.

Under Aikman’s leadership, the Cowboys won three Super Bowl championships in a four-year span, establishing themselves as a dominant force in the NFL during that period.

Aikman’s playing style was characterized by accuracy and efficiency. He developed a strong on-field rapport with wide receiver Michael Irvin, which contributed to the team’s offensive success.

Aikman’s ability to perform under pressure is evidenced by his playoff record of 11 wins and 4 losses.

While Aikman’s regular season statistics may not appear impressive by contemporary standards, it’s important to consider the context of the era in which he played.

The NFL at that time had different offensive trends compared to the modern game, with less emphasis on passing. Despite this, Aikman maintained a career completion percentage of over 61%, demonstrating his consistent accuracy.

Aikman’s postseason performance was particularly notable, as indicated by his quarterback rating of 88.3 in playoff games.

This statistic suggests that he maintained a high level of play during crucial matches.

In evaluating Aikman’s career, it’s essential to consider both his individual statistics and his impact on team success.

His contributions to the Cowboys’ championship victories and his efficient playing style make him a significant figure in NFL history.

Otto Graham: Early Era Icon

Otto Graham is widely recognized as a prominent figure among top NFL quarterbacks from the early era. His career achievements provide substantial evidence for this reputation.

During a period when running plays were predominant, Graham’s proficiency in passing was notable. He led the Cleveland Browns to ten consecutive championship games from 1946 to 1955, winning seven of them. This record remains unmatched in modern NFL history.

Graham’s abilities extended beyond his throwing skills. He demonstrated resilience and versatility, often playing through injuries in an era with minimal protective equipment.

His accolades include three NFL Championships and four All-American Football Conference titles, indicative of his significant impact on the sport.

Graham’s five-time selection as first-team All-Pro attests to his consistent high-level performance. His career passer rating of 86.6 is particularly noteworthy when compared to the lower averages typical of his era.

Graham’s contributions to the sport were influential in the development of the modern passing game, combining elements of courage, innovation, and consistent excellence.

The factual data and statistical evidence support Graham’s status as a pioneering figure in professional football. His achievements and playing style laid a foundation for future developments in quarterback play and offensive strategies.

Bart Starr: Ice Bowl Hero

Bart Starr’s performance in the 1967 NFL Championship, known as the Ice Bowl, demonstrated his ability to perform under extreme conditions.

The game was played in Green Bay, Wisconsin, with temperatures at -15°F and wind chill reaching -48°F. These severe weather conditions presented significant challenges for both teams.

The game against the Dallas Cowboys was tied at 17 late in the fourth quarter.

With 16 seconds remaining and no timeouts, the Packers faced a third down situation near the goal line. Starr made the tactical decision to call a quarterback sneak, a high-risk play given the circumstances. He executed the play successfully, scoring the winning touchdown behind blocks from Jerry Kramer and Ken Bowman.

This play is considered significant in NFL history for several reasons:

  1. It showcased Starr’s decision-making abilities under pressure.
  2. It demonstrated his physical toughness in extreme weather conditions.
  3. It led to a crucial victory in a championship game.

Starr’s performance in this game is often cited as a key moment in his career, which included five NFL championships. His ability to lead his team to victory in challenging circumstances contributed to his reputation as an effective quarterback and leader.

This game, along with his overall career achievements, has led many analysts to rank Starr among the top quarterbacks in NFL history.

Fran Tarkenton: Scrambling Pioneer

Fran Tarkenton significantly influenced the quarterback position through his ability to evade defenders and extend plays. His mobility in the pocket became a defining characteristic of his playing style.

During his 18-season career with the Minnesota Vikings and New York Giants, Tarkenton developed a technique that allowed him to avoid tackles and create opportunities from potentially negative situations.

Tarkenton’s approach involved moving between tackles, avoiding sacks, and converting potential losses into gains. In an era dominated by pocket passers, his agility and adaptability on the field represented a departure from conventional quarterback play.

Tarkenton’s effectiveness wasn’t limited to his running ability; he also possessed strong passing skills. Upon retirement, he held several major quarterback records, indicating the success of his unconventional style.

Tarkenton’s impact extended beyond his statistical achievements. He demonstrated that quarterback mobility could be a valuable asset in offensive strategy, influencing the evolution of the position.

His style of play influenced subsequent generations of quarterbacks, encouraging the integration of athleticism into the role. Tarkenton’s approach contributed to expanding the skill set associated with the quarterback position.

The legacy of Tarkenton’s playing style can be observed in contemporary quarterback play, where mobility and the ability to extend plays have become valued attributes.

His contributions to the development of the quarterback role highlight the ongoing evolution of offensive strategies in American football.

Warren Moon: Passing Pioneer

Warren Moon’s career significantly impacted the quarterback position in professional football. Initially overlooked by the NFL, Moon established himself in the Canadian Football League, winning five consecutive Grey Cups.

This success led to his eventual entry into the NFL.

In the NFL, Moon accumulated over 49,000 passing yards and 291 touchdowns. His arm strength and accuracy made him a formidable competitor.

Moon’s performance often elevated his team’s overall gameplay, contributing to their success.

Moon’s influence extended beyond his statistical achievements. As an African American quarterback, he faced and overcame racial barriers in professional football.

His success helped pave the way for increased diversity in the quarterback position.

Moon’s induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame recognizes both his on-field performance and his role in breaking barriers in professional football.

His career demonstrated that quarterback talent isn’t limited by race, contributing to a more inclusive environment in the sport.

The impact of Moon’s career is evident in the increased representation of diverse quarterbacks in professional football today.

His legacy serves as a testament to the importance of equal opportunity in sports and the potential for individuals to excel when given the chance.

Len Dawson: Super Bowl IV MVP

Len Dawson played a significant role in shaping the NFL’s quarterback landscape during his era. His performance in Super Bowl IV was particularly notable, as he led the Kansas City Chiefs to victory and earned the Super Bowl MVP title.

In the 1970 matchup against the Minnesota Vikings, Dawson demonstrated his effectiveness as the Chiefs’ offensive leader.

The final score of 23-7 in favor of the Chiefs reflected Dawson’s ability to manage the game efficiently. His statistics for the game included completing 12 of 17 passes for 142 yards.

While these numbers may not appear exceptional by modern standards, they were impactful within the context of the game and era. Dawson’s performance contributed to changing perceptions about the AFL’s competitiveness relative to the NFL.

Prior to this Super Bowl, the AFL was generally considered inferior to the NFL in terms of talent and quality of play.

Dawson’s success in Super Bowl IV helped elevate the status of the AFL and demonstrated that its players could compete at the highest level.

This victory was particularly significant as it occurred shortly before the AFL-NFL merger, which took place later in 1970.

The impact of Dawson’s MVP performance extended beyond individual accolades, influencing broader perceptions of league parity and competitiveness.

His leadership and execution in a high-stakes game contributed to his lasting legacy in NFL history.

Kurt Warner: Late Bloomer Success

Kurt Warner’s career trajectory demonstrates the potential for late-emerging talent in professional sports. Warner became a starting NFL quarterback at age 28, significantly later than most successful players in the position.

His professional football career began with the St. Louis Rams in 1999 when he replaced an injured Trent Green.

Warner’s 1999 season was statistically impressive. He threw for 4,353 yards and 41 touchdowns, leading the Rams to a Super Bowl victory and earning the NFL Most Valuable Player award.

This performance established him as a formidable quarterback despite his late start in the league.

Warner’s career achievements include leading two different NFL teams to the Super Bowl, a relatively uncommon accomplishment that speaks to his adaptability and skill.

His success challenges conventional assumptions about athletic peak performance and career timelines in professional sports.

The Warner case study suggests that talent development and career success in athletics may not always follow predictable patterns.

It indicates that opportunities, combined with skill and perseverance, can lead to significant achievements even when they occur later than is typically expected in a professional sports career.

Warner’s induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2017 further solidifies his place among the most accomplished quarterbacks in NFL history, despite his unconventional career path.

His story provides a data point for discussions about talent identification, development, and the potential for late-career success in professional sports.

Ben Roethlisberger: Big Play Ability

Ben Roethlisberger’s career as an NFL quarterback was marked by his ability to make significant plays, particularly in high-pressure situations.

Roethlisberger, often referred to as “Big Ben,” was known for his performance in late-game scenarios when his team, the Pittsburgh Steelers, were trailing. His effectiveness in these situations was a key component of his playing style.

Roethlisberger’s skill in extending plays was a notable aspect of his game. His physical size and strength allowed him to evade tackles and move outside the pocket, creating opportunities for downfield passes even when the initial play had broken down.

This ability presented challenges for opposing defenses and often resulted in substantial gains for his team.

Statistical evidence supports Roethlisberger’s reputation for big plays. Over his career, he accumulated impressive numbers in various categories, including passing yards and touchdowns.

However, his performance in critical moments, particularly in playoff games and Super Bowls, is considered equally significant in evaluating his career.

Roethlisberger led the Steelers to two Super Bowl victories, demonstrating his capacity to perform at a high level in the most important games.

This success in championship situations is a key factor in discussions about his place among top NFL quarterbacks.

When assessing Roethlisberger’s career, it’s important to consider both his statistical achievements and his performance in crucial game situations.

His ability to produce significant plays when under pressure was a defining characteristic of his playing style and contributed substantially to his team’s success over his tenure with the Steelers.

Conclusion

You’ve journeyed through the legacy of the NFL’s finest quarterbacks, exploring each legend’s unique contributions to the sport. From Tom Brady’s unmatched drive to Joe Montana’s clutch prowess and Peyton Manning’s strategic acumen, these athletes represent the pinnacle of football excellence. Their stories aren’t just about statistics and awards; they’re about the moments that lifted spirits and defined generations. Carry these stories with you, celebrating their triumphs as your inspiration and guide.