The history of the NFL is dotted with remarkable quarterbacks who have left an indelible mark on the sport. These quarterbacks are not only exceptional athletes but also strategic minds who have orchestrated some of the most memorable moments in football history.
From their precise passes to their leadership on and off the field, the greatest NFL quarterbacks have set records, won championships, and become icons of the game.
Take a look at the lives and careers of these extraordinary individuals who have forever shaped the landscape of American football.
30. Rich Gannon


Rich Gannon, a former NFL quarterback, played for 17 seasons (1987-2004). His notable tenure was with the Oakland Raiders, earning him remarkable achievements.
Gannon was drafted by the New England Patriots in 1987 and played for various teams, including the Vikings, Redskins, Chiefs, and Raiders.
Under coach Jon Gruden, Gannon excelled with four Pro Bowl selections (1999-2002) and the 2002 NFL MVP title.
He led the Raiders to Super Bowl XXXVII, known for his intelligence, accuracy, and leadership on the field.
29. Jim Zorn
Jim Zorn is a former NFL quarterback known for his time with the Seattle Seahawks during their early years. He was admired for his mobility and strong arm.
Zorn was undrafted out of college but signed with the expansion Seattle Seahawks, becoming the teamโs starting quarterback and playing there from 1976 to 1984.
After his playing career, Zorn transitioned to coaching roles, including becoming the head coach of the Washington Redskins in 2008.
Despite limited success as a head coach, he remains respected for his contributions to the NFL as both a player and a coach.


28. Drew Bledsoe
Drew Bledsoe, a former NFL quarterback, was the top pick in the 1993 draft, chosen by the New England Patriots. He played a pivotal role in revitalizing the Patriots in the 1990s, known for his strong arm.
While his injury led to Tom Bradyโs rise in 2001, Bledsoeโs AFC Championship Game performance was crucial in sending the Patriots to a Super Bowl win.
He played for the Bills and Cowboys before retiring in 2006, leaving a lasting impact on the NFL both for his records and mentoring of young quarterbacks.
Bledsoeโs post-football venture into winemaking also highlights his diverse interests.


27. Carson Palmer
Carson Palmer, a former NFL quarterback, played for 15 seasons and was born on December 27, 1979.
Noted for his strong arm and leadership, he was the first overall pick in the 2003 NFL Draft by the Cincinnati Bengals. He excelled with the Bengals, earning two Pro Bowl selections.
Traded to the Oakland Raiders in 2011, he continued to impress. Joining the Arizona Cardinals in 2013, Palmer achieved three more Pro Bowl selections and led the team to the NFC Championship game in 2015.
Known for accuracy and reading defenses, he retired after the 2017 season, leaving a lasting impact on the league.


26. Donovan McNab
Donovan McNabb, a former NFL quarterback, played for 13 seasons and was born on November 25, 1976. Known for his athleticism, he was selected second overall in the 1999 NFL Draft by the Philadelphia Eagles.
McNabbโs dynamic skills as a dual-threat quarterback led the Eagles to several playoffs, including a Super Bowl appearance in 2004. He was admired for his strong arm, leadership, and clutch performances.
McNabb earned six Pro Bowl selections and holds franchise records.
His impactful career extended to the Washington Redskins and Minnesota Vikings before retiring in 2011, leaving a lasting legacy in the NFL.


25. Warren Moon
Warren Moon, a former NFL quarterback, enjoyed a remarkable 17-season career. Born on November 18, 1956, he initially played in the CFL due to limited opportunities for Black quarterbacks in the NFL.
Joining the Houston Oilers in 1984, Moon showcased his exceptional passing skills and football intelligence. With a strong arm and leadership qualities, he earned nine Pro Bowl selections and became one of the leagueโs premier quarterbacks.
Moon played for various teams before retiring in 2000.
His Pro Football Hall of Fame induction in 2006 celebrated his significant impact on the game and his journey as a trailblazer for Black quarterbacks in the NFL.


24. Dan Fouts
Dan Fouts, a former NFL quarterback born on June 10, 1951, gained fame primarily with the San Diego Chargers. He played a pivotal role in the โAir Coryellโ offense, known for his accurate passing and leadership.
Fouts set passing records and earned six Pro Bowl selections during his Chargers tenure. His influence extended to popularizing the passing game in the NFL.
After retiring in 1987, Fouts had a successful broadcasting career.
Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1993, his legacy as a quarterback who redefined the passing game remains significant.


23. Philip Rivers
Philip Rivers, a former NFL quarterback, had a notable career, born on December 8, 1981. Most associated with the San Diego Chargers and later the Indianapolis Colts, Rivers was known for his passionate play and strong passing abilities.
With eight Pro Bowl selections and impressive stats, he left a lasting impact on the Chargers despite not winning a Super Bowl.
Rivers played his final season with the Colts in 2020, transitioning to a coaching role afterward.
His competitive spirit and dedication mark his legacy in the NFL.


22. Eli Manning
Eli Manning, a former NFL quarterback born on January 3, 1981, is celebrated for his impactful 16-season career, primarily with the New York Giants.
Notable for his clutch performances, Manning secured two Super Bowl victories against the New England Patriots, earning MVP awards for both games.
His consistency, leadership, and franchise records marked his Giants tenure. Beyond football, Manningโs philanthropy and sportsmanship were noteworthy.
His 2020 retirement marked the end of a significant era for the Giants. Manningโs legacy is shaped by his Super Bowl wins, impact on the Giants, and contributions to NFL history.


21. Steve McNair
Steve McNair, a former NFL quarterback born on February 14, 1973, had an impactful career primarily with the Tennessee Titans. Known for his toughness and dual-threat abilities, he played a pivotal role in the Titansโ 1999 Super Bowl run.
McNairโs 11-season tenure included three Pro Bowl selections and a notable partnership with Derrick Mason. His legacy is marked by his grit, leadership, and contributions to the NFL.
Tragically, he passed away in 2009, leaving behind a lasting impact on the sport.


20. Kurt Warner
Kurt Warner, a quarterback who achieved great success, had a notable Super Bowl record with one championship win and one loss. In addition to his Super Bowl triumph, he earned the prestigious title of Super Bowl MVP.
Warnerโs career was not without its challenges as he faced instances where injuries, team decisions, and the emergence of young talents affected his opportunities.
The Rams, Giants, and Cardinals made quarterback changes that prevented Warner from fully capitalizing on his prime years.


19. Ben Roethlisberger
At the peak of his career, Ben Roethlisberger showcased his prowess by leading the NFL in passing yards, specifically an impressive 5,129 yards in 2018.
His accomplishments extend beyond statistical achievements, as he boasts two Super Bowl victories and a third Super Bowl appearance as a starting quarterback.
Notably, Roethlisberger has maintained a remarkable level of success in the passing game, consistently averaging over 290.3 passing yards per game since turning 30, further solidifying his reputation as a top-tier quarterback.


18. Russell Wilson
Despite being in the league for a relatively short time since 2012, Russell Wilson has already established himself as a Seattle Seahawk legend. He has consistently showcased his exceptional skills and has made a significant impact on the franchise.
Notably, since 2016, Wilson leads all quarterbacks in passing yards outside the tackle box, an impressive feat of mobility and playmaking ability. Additionally, he has also rushed for over 2,000 yards himself, displaying his dual-threat capabilities.
Wilsonโs contributions have led the Seahawks to two Super Bowl appearances, and his passer rating surpasses 100, emphasizing his efficiency and effectiveness as a quarterback.
]


17. Terry Bradshaw
Terry Bradshaw, renowned for his 13-year tenure as the quarterback for the Pittsburgh Steelers, is a figure often subject to differing opinions regarding his skill level.
While some may perceive him as a mediocre quarterback, it is undeniable that Bradshawโs legacy is fortified by his remarkable achievement of winning four Super Bowl championships.
Notably, Bradshaw holds the distinction of being the top quarterback to have attempted at least 40 passes in a single Super Bowl game while averaging over 11.1 yards per attempt.


16. Sid Luckman
During his illustrious 12-year career as a Chicago Bear from 1939 to 1950, Sid Luckman left an indelible mark on the franchise, winning four NFL titles.
As the Bearsโ quarterback, Luckman achieved an outstanding 98-32-3 record, establishing himself as a driving force behind the teamโs success. Luckmanโs exceptional performances were highlighted by leading the league in passing yards, passer rating, and touchdown passes on three separate occasions.
Particularly astonishing was his remarkable average of 10.9 yards per throw during the 1943 season.
Even more impressive was his astounding 19.9 yards per completion during that same season, a testament to his ability to connect on deep passes and make big plays downfield.


15. Steve Young
Steve Young, often hailed as the 20th-century triple-threat quarterback, possessed exceptional skills in running, throwing, and throwing on the move. Although it took him five seasons to secure the starting position with the San Francisco 49ers from 1987 to 1999, Youngโs undeniable talent propelled him to great heights.
He led the 49ers to a Super Bowl victory and earned the distinction of leading the NFL in passer rating an impressive six times.
Additionally, Young was honored with two MVP awards. A remarkable feat in his career was being the only quarterback in history to lead the league in passer rating for four consecutive seasons, from 1991 to 1994.


14. Troy Aikman
Troy Aikman undoubtedly deserves recognition for his contributions during his career with the Dallas Cowboys from 1989 to 2000. Aikman was known for his strength, composure, and quick release, allowing him to make timely throws.
However, Aikmanโs statistics might not fully reflect his abilities, primarily due to the Cowboysโ emphasis on a run-heavy offensive strategy during the 1990s. The teamโs commitment to the running game often limited Aikmanโs passing opportunities and statistical output.
Nevertheless, Aikmanโs impact is better reflected in his impressive 11-4 playoff record, showcasing his ability to perform and lead the team in crucial postseason games.


13. Bart Starr
Despite being ranked below Aaron Rodgers and Brett Favre in certain discussions, Bart Starrโs contributions as a quarterback should not be underestimated. With a remarkable 9-1 record in postseason play, Starr demonstrated his ability to perform under pressure and deliver in crucial moments.
Notably, Starr holds the record for the highest postseason passer rating with a minimum of 150 pass attempts, an impressive mark of 104.8. He exhibited great success in throwing during deep third and one situations, showcasing his skill and precision in critical moments.
One of his defining moments came in the 1966 NFL Championship Game, where he threw four touchdowns without an interception. However, Starr is often remembered for his iconic quarterback sneak in the 1967 Ice Bowl, a play that exemplified his determination and resilience.


12. Brett Favre
Brett Favreโs career was characterized by remarkable consistency and his ability to excel on the field, regardless of the team he played for, be it the Atlanta Falcons, Green Bay Packers, New York Jets, or Minnesota Vikings.
Favreโs prowess as a player extended beyond his exceptional quarterbacking skills, as he was widely regarded as one of the best players in the league. His throwing arm was often described as laser-like, capable of making incredible throws.
Favreโs accomplishments include winning three MVP awards and being the first quarterback to throw 35 touchdowns in a season for three consecutive years.


11. Sammy Baugh
Sammy Baugh, a legendary quarterback who played for the Washington Redskins from 1937 to 1952, left an indelible mark on the game during a time when offensive statistics were considerably different.
Notably, as a rookie, Baughโs performance in the 1937 NFL Championship Game stood out with three touchdowns and 335 yards, which was exceptional given the eraโs average yardage per game. Baugh earned the nickname โSlinginโ Sammyโ for his accurate and powerful arm.
His completion rate of 70.3% in 1945 and throwing for 3,000 yards in 1947 were remarkable achievements, especially when compared to the league average of 45% during the same year.


10. Aaron Rodgers
Aaron Rodgers, a highly accomplished quarterback, has enjoyed significant success throughout his career. Despite having one Super Bowl victory,
Rodgers has been honored with two MVP awards and consistently maintained a passer rating over 100, showcasing his exceptional efficiency and skill.
His regular season record of 100-57-1 is impressive, and his touchdown-to-interception ratio of 4.23 to 1 demonstrates his ability to make smart decisions and protect the football.
However, it is true that Rodgers has not led the Green Bay Packers back to the Super Bowl in recent years.


9. John Elway
John Elway, renowned for his exceptional career with the Denver Broncos, achieved great success as a quarterback. He led the Broncos to back-to-back Super Bowl victories in 1997 and 1998, solidifying his legacy as a champion.
Elway holds the distinction of being the first quarterback in NFL history to start in five Super Bowls, a testament to his consistency and ability to perform on the biggest stage.
Known for his remarkable athleticism, Elway possessed both speed and a strong arm, making him a dual-threat on the field.
One of his notable accomplishments is retiring with the second-most game-winning drives since the 1950s era, with an impressive total of 40.


8. Roger Staubach
Roger Staubachโs impact as a quarterback is truly remarkable. In his first season as a full-time starter, he achieved an undefeated 13-0 record, leading his team to a Super Bowl victory while maintaining a passer rating of over 100.
Throughout his career, Staubach demonstrated incredible consistency and success, boasting the second-highest winning percentage among quarterbacks with a remarkable .746% over 100 starts.
In his eight highly successful seasons, Staubach started in four Super Bowls, won two championships, and led the league in passer rating four times.


7. Dan Marino
Dan Marinoโs 1984 season was truly exceptional and is often regarded as one of the greatest individual seasons by a quarterback in NFL history. Even when adjusting for the era, Marinoโs statistics remain impressive.
Jack Andrade of the NFL Network Researcher noted that Marinoโs performance in 1984, when adjusted for the era, would equate to a quarterback throwing for an astonishing 5,668 yards and 58 touchdowns in 2018.
However, in reality, Marino still achieved remarkable numbers, throwing for 48 touchdowns and surpassing 5,000 passing yards, a feat that had never been accomplished before.
Additionally, what made Marinoโs season even more remarkable was the fact that he was sacked just 13 times throughout the entire year, further highlighting his ability to deliver accurate and efficient passes despite facing limited pressure.


6. Drew Brees
Drew Brees may not possess the physical stature or athleticism of some other quarterbacks, but his consistency and record-breaking performances speak for themselves.
Brees stands out as one of the most prolific passers in NFL history, as evidenced by his incredible feat of throwing for over 5,000 yards in a single season on five different occasions, a record unmatched by any other quarterback.
Furthermore, Brees has led the league in passing yards for a remarkable seven seasons, solidifying his reputation as a premier passer.
Despite not always receiving the same level of recognition as some of his peers, Brees has carved out a remarkable legacy marked by consistency, statistical achievements, and the ability to lead his teamโs offense with precision and skill.


5. Otto Graham
Otto Grahamโs career is nothing short of remarkable, particularly considering his incredible consistency and success in reaching the Championship Game in each of his 10 seasons.
It is worth noting that four of those appearances came during his time in the All-America Football Conference, which was a rival league to the NFL at the time.
Despite an era when the passing game was not as prevalent, Grahamโs statistics are impressive. With an average of nine yards per attempt, he consistently moved the ball down the field effectively, essentially averaging a first down every play.
Graham achieved a highly impressive 99.1 passer rating and maintained a 2-1 touchdown-to-interception ratio, highlighting his efficiency and ability to make plays.


4. Johnny Unitas
Johnny Unitas, despite experiencing challenges off the field later in his life, left an enduring legacy for his on-field performances. With the exception of one season as a San Diego Charger in 1973, Unitas spent his entire career as a Baltimore Colt from 1956 to 1972.
He led the Colts to three NFL Championships in 1958, 1959, and 1968, but could only secure one Super Bowl victory in 1971.
However, Unitasโ career record of 124-65-4 is highly impressive, showcasing his ability to win games consistently. He was recognized as one of the leagueโs top quarterbacks, being named to the Pro Bowl in 10 out of his 12 seasons.


3. Peyton Manning
Peyton Manningโs career was indeed remarkable, with notable stints as an Indianapolis Colt and a Denver Bronco. While he began his career in Indianapolis, Manningโs impact and legacy extend far beyond his time with the Colts.
One of Manningโs defining traits was his exceptional football intelligence and ability to read and dissect defenses at the line of scrimmage.
Known for his pre-snap adjustments and play-calling, Manning had a unique command of the game and the ability to exploit opposing defenses. His mastery of audibles and changing the play at the line of scrimmage became a hallmark of his playing style.
Despite his throws sometimes being described as โwobbly,โ Manningโs skill and accuracy were undeniable. He was voted league MVP an impressive five times throughout his career, a testament to his excellence and impact on the game.


2. Joe Montana
Joe Montanaโs career is etched in NFL history, characterized by his precision and clutch performances. His accurate throws, notably highlighted in John Taylor and Jerry Rice highlight videos, played a crucial role in his success.
Montana earned the distinction of being a four-time Super Bowl champion, winning Super Bowls XVI, XIX, XXIII, and XXIV. In three of those victories, he was also named Super Bowl MVP, underlining his exceptional performances on the grandest stage.
With a touchdown-interception ratio of 273-139, Montanaโs ability to protect the football while finding the end zone was evident. While he played a brief period with the Kansas City Chiefs, Montanaโs legacy is primarily associated with the San Francisco 49ers.
During his time with the 49ers, Montana led the team to numerous successes, including his two MVP seasons in 1989 and 1990.


1. Tom Brady
Tom Bradyโs status as a legendary quarterback is unquestionable, with a plethora of achievements and records to his name.
His list of accolades is indeed impressive, with six Super Bowl championships (XXXVI, XXXVIII, XXXIX, XLIX, LI, and LIII) and four Super Bowl MVP awards (XXXVI, XXXVIII, XLIX, and LI) highlighting his success on the grandest stage.
Bradyโs consistency and excellence are further exemplified by his 14 Pro Bowl selections and three First-Team All-Pro honors. He has also led the league in passing touchdowns four times, passing yards three times, and earned two NFL Offensive Player of the Year awards.
These achievements underline his ability to perform at an elite level for an extended period. Bradyโs longevity and sustained success have elevated him to the status of an NFL legend.


Please SHARE this with your friends and family.