When it comes to the NFL, few positions are as iconic—or as pressure-packed—as quarterback. Over the decades, we've seen some truly legendary figures take the field, making jaw-dropping plays, leading their teams to victory, and setting records that will stand for generations. From the cool under pressure "Joe Cool" to the gunslinging "Favre," these quarterbacks have left an indelible mark on the game. So, grab your foam finger and get ready to dive into the huddle as we rank the greatest quarterbacks of all time. Ready, set, hike!
50. Drew Bledsoe
Drew Bledsoe was born in Ellensburg, Washington, and grew up playing multiple sports, including football, basketball, and baseball. He played college football at Washington State University, where he quickly made a name for himself as a strong-armed quarterback. Drafted first overall by the New England Patriots in 1993, Bledsoe helped revitalize the franchise. His most notable achievement was leading the Patriots to Super Bowl XXXI. Despite injuries shortening his career, Bledsoe still ranks among the top 20 in career passing yards.
After retiring, he turned to winemaking with his Doubleback Winery in Washington. Known for his cannon arm, Bledsoe revitalized New England football and now owns a successful winery.
49. Doug Williams
Doug Williams, hailing from Zachary, Louisiana, made history as the first African American quarterback to win a Super Bowl. He played college football at Grambling State under legendary coach Eddie Robinson, where he developed into an exceptional passer. Drafted by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 1978, Williams' career took off when he joined the Washington Redskins, leading them to a victory in Super Bowl XXII and earning MVP honors. Post-retirement, Williams has had a successful career in coaching and front office roles within the NFL.
Doug Williams, a Louisiana native and Grambling State star, became the first Black quarterback to win a Super Bowl, leading the Redskins to glory in 1988. He's since transitioned into coaching and executive roles.
48. Dave Krieg
Dave Krieg’s football journey began in the small town of Iola, Wisconsin. After walking on at Milton College, Krieg went undrafted but signed with the Seattle Seahawks in 1980. Known for his resilience and ability to perform under pressure, Krieg spent 19 seasons in the NFL, playing for six teams, including the Seahawks, Chiefs, and Lions. He retired with over 38,000 passing yards and 261 touchdowns. Since retiring, Krieg has remained active in the football community and is a regular guest at Seahawks alumni events.
Undrafted out of tiny Milton College, Dave Krieg became a reliable NFL quarterback, especially with the Seahawks. Over 19 seasons, he accumulated over 38,000 passing yards, earning him a spot among the greats.
47. Bert Jones
Born in Ruston, Louisiana, Bert Jones grew up in a football family; his father, Dub Jones, was an NFL halfback. Bert followed in his father’s footsteps, playing college ball at LSU before being drafted second overall by the Baltimore Colts in 1973. Known for his rocket arm, Jones earned the NFL MVP award in 1976, leading the Colts to three consecutive AFC East titles. Although injuries shortened his career, Jones left a lasting legacy as one of the game's great deep passers.
Bert Jones, the "Ruston Rifle," had NFL bloodlines and a cannon for an arm. The 1976 MVP led the Colts to multiple division titles, though injuries cut his promising career short.
46. Bob Griese
Hailing from Evansville, Indiana, Bob Griese excelled in both football and baseball at Purdue University. Drafted by the Miami Dolphins in 1967, Griese became the cornerstone of a team that achieved the NFL’s only perfect season in 1972. Known for his intelligent play and leadership, Griese led the Dolphins to back-to-back Super Bowl victories. A six-time Pro Bowler and Hall of Famer, Griese retired in 1980 and later enjoyed a successful broadcasting career, calling games for college football.
Bob Griese, from Indiana to the NFL, quarterbacked the Dolphins through their perfect 1972 season. A Hall of Famer and two-time Super Bowl champ, Griese later became a respected football broadcaster.
45. Ken Stabler
Ken "The Snake" Stabler was born in Foley, Alabama, and became a star at the University of Alabama under coach Bear Bryant. Drafted by the Oakland Raiders in 1968, Stabler was known for his cool demeanor and clutch performances. He led the Raiders to a Super Bowl victory in 1977 and was named NFL MVP in 1974. Stabler’s career also included stints with the Houston Oilers and New Orleans Saints. Post-retirement, he became a popular radio broadcaster and was posthumously inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2016.
Ken Stabler, the "Snake" from Alabama, was a clutch performer who led the Raiders to a Super Bowl win and earned MVP honors. His legacy lives on with his Hall of Fame induction.
44. Joe Theismann
Joe Theismann was born in New Brunswick, New Jersey, and made his mark at Notre Dame before heading to the Canadian Football League. In 1974, Theismann joined the Washington Redskins, where he became known for his leadership and quick release. He led the Redskins to a Super Bowl XVII victory and was named NFL MVP in 1983. Unfortunately, Theismann’s career ended abruptly with a devastating leg injury in 1985. After retiring, he transitioned into a successful career as a television sports analyst.
Joe Theismann, from Notre Dame to the Redskins, led his team to a Super Bowl win and an MVP title. His career ended early due to injury, but he thrived as a sports analyst.
43. Roman Gabriel
Born in Wilmington, North Carolina, Roman Gabriel was a multi-sport athlete at NC State before being drafted by the Los Angeles Rams in 1962. Known for his durability and strong arm, Gabriel became the first Asian-American starting quarterback in NFL history. He was named NFL MVP in 1969 and led the Rams to several playoff appearances. Gabriel later played for the Philadelphia Eagles, continuing his success. After retiring, Gabriel worked as a coach and remained involved in various sports endeavors.
Roman Gabriel, NC State star and the NFL's first Asian-American starting QB, led the Rams and Eagles with his strong arm. A 1969 MVP, Gabriel later pursued coaching and sports-related ventures.
42. Phil Simms
Phil Simms, born in Springfield, Kentucky, played college football at Morehead State University. Drafted seventh overall by the New York Giants in 1979, Simms became known for his toughness and accuracy. He led the Giants to two Super Bowl victories, earning MVP honors in Super Bowl XXI with a record-setting performance. After a 15-year career, Simms retired in 1993 and transitioned into broadcasting, where he became a well-respected NFL analyst. His son, Chris Simms, also played quarterback in the NFL.
Phil Simms, the Giants' durable and accurate leader, won two Super Bowls and an MVP award. Post-retirement, he became a respected NFL analyst, continuing the Simms football legacy with his son Chris.
41. Mark Brunell
Mark Brunell, a native of Santa Maria, California, played college football at the University of Washington, where he led the Huskies to a national championship. Drafted by the Green Bay Packers in 1993, Brunell found his stride with the Jacksonville Jaguars, leading the team to multiple playoff appearances in their early years. A three-time Pro Bowler, Brunell was known for his mobility and clutch play. After retiring, he turned to coaching and mentoring young quarterbacks, as well as investing in business ventures.
Mark Brunell, Washington Huskies star, became the face of the Jaguars' early success with his mobility and leadership. A three-time Pro Bowler, he now focuses on coaching and business ventures.
40. Tony Romo
Tony Romo, born in San Diego, California, and raised in Burlington, Wisconsin, went undrafted out of Eastern Illinois University but signed with the Dallas Cowboys in 2003. Known for his improvisational skills and strong arm, Romo became the Cowboys’ starting quarterback in 2006 and went on to break numerous franchise records, including career passing yards and touchdowns. Although he never led the team to a Super Bowl, Romo was a four-time Pro Bowler. After retiring in 2017, he became a highly acclaimed NFL broadcaster.
Tony Romo, an undrafted gem from Eastern Illinois, became the Cowboys' all-time leader in passing yards and touchdowns. Post-retirement, he's gained fame as a top NFL broadcaster.
39. Rich Gannon
Rich Gannon was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and played college football at the University of Delaware. Drafted by the New England Patriots in 1987, Gannon found success later in his career with the Oakland Raiders. Known for his quick decision-making and mobility, Gannon led the Raiders to a Super Bowl appearance in 2003 and was named NFL MVP in 2002. A four-time Pro Bowler, Gannon retired in 2004 and transitioned into a successful career as an NFL commentator and analyst.
Rich Gannon, a Delaware alum, found his stride with the Raiders, earning NFL MVP honors in 2002. A four-time Pro Bowler, he now shares his football insights as a commentator and analyst.
38. Cam Newton
Cam Newton, born in Atlanta, Georgia, and a standout at Auburn University, was drafted first overall by the Carolina Panthers in 2011. Known for his unique combination of size, speed, and arm strength, Newton revolutionized the quarterback position. He won the NFL MVP award in 2015, leading the Panthers to a Super Bowl appearance. Newton holds numerous records for rushing touchdowns by a quarterback. Though his career has seen ups and downs, he remains a dynamic player, currently a free agent in 2024.
Cam Newton, the 2015 NFL MVP and Panthers' top pick, is known for his athleticism and record-breaking rushing TDs. A dynamic presence on and off the field, he's currently a free agent.
37. Randall Cunningham
Randall Cunningham, a Los Angeles native, was a multi-sport star at UNLV before being drafted by the Philadelphia Eagles in 1985. Cunningham was a trailblazer for dual-threat quarterbacks, combining elite athleticism with a powerful arm. He was a four-time Pro Bowler and led the Eagles and later the Minnesota Vikings to multiple playoff appearances. Cunningham retired with over 29,000 passing yards and 4,900 rushing yards. After football, he became a pastor and remains a beloved figure in NFL history.
Randall Cunningham, a pioneer for dual-threat QBs, electrified the NFL with his arm and legs. A four-time Pro Bowler, he now serves as a pastor, leaving a lasting legacy in football.
36. Carson Palmer
Carson Palmer, born in Fresno, California, was a star quarterback at USC, winning the Heisman Trophy in 2002. Drafted first overall by the Cincinnati Bengals in 2003, Palmer quickly became one of the league's top passers. He also played for the Oakland Raiders and Arizona Cardinals, leading the latter to the NFC Championship in 2015. Known for his strong arm and leadership, Palmer retired in 2017 with over 46,000 passing yards. He now enjoys a quiet life in Idaho, focusing on family and philanthropy.
Carson Palmer, a Heisman-winning QB from USC, excelled with the Bengals and Cardinals, retiring with over 46,000 passing yards. Now in Idaho, he focuses on family life and philanthropy.
35. Philip Rivers
Philip Rivers, hailing from Decatur, Alabama, played college football at NC State before being drafted fourth overall by the New York Giants in 2004, though he was immediately traded to the San Diego Chargers. Known for his fiery competitive spirit and durability, Rivers started 240 consecutive games, ranking fifth all-time in passing yards and touchdowns. Rivers retired in 2021 after a brief stint with the Indianapolis Colts and transitioned into coaching high school football, continuing his passion for the game.
Philip Rivers, NC State standout and Chargers legend, ranks among the all-time passing leaders. Known for his durability, Rivers now channels his love for football into coaching high school teams.
34. Boomer Esiason
Boomer Esiason, born in East Islip, New York, made a name for himself at the University of Maryland before being drafted by the Cincinnati Bengals in 1984. Known for his strong arm and leadership, Esiason led the Bengals to a Super Bowl appearance in 1989 and was named NFL MVP in 1988. He also played for the Jets and Cardinals before retiring in 1997. Since then, Esiason has enjoyed a successful broadcasting career and is a prominent advocate for cystic fibrosis research.
Boomer Esiason, a Maryland alum, led the Bengals to a Super Bowl and won the 1988 MVP. Retiring in 1997, he's now a prominent broadcaster and cystic fibrosis research advocate.
33. Matt Ryan
Matt Ryan, born in Exton, Pennsylvania, played college football at Boston College and was drafted third overall by the Atlanta Falcons in 2008. Nicknamed "Matty Ice" for his cool demeanor under pressure, Ryan led the Falcons to Super Bowl LI and won the NFL MVP award in 2016. He holds numerous franchise records, including career passing yards and touchdowns. Though now with the Indianapolis Colts, Ryan's legacy as one of the most consistent and reliable quarterbacks of his era is secure.
Matt Ryan, "Matty Ice," led the Falcons to a Super Bowl and won the 2016 MVP. Known for his consistency, Ryan's legacy includes numerous franchise records and a reputation for clutch play.
32. Steve McNair
Steve McNair, born in Mount Olive, Mississippi, was a standout at Alcorn State, setting multiple NCAA records before being drafted third overall by the Houston Oilers in 1995. Known for his toughness and dual-threat ability, McNair led the Tennessee Titans to a Super Bowl appearance in 2000 and shared the NFL MVP award in 2003. A three-time Pro Bowler, McNair retired in 2007 with over 31,000 passing yards and 3,500 rushing yards. Tragically, McNair’s life was cut short in 2009.
Steve McNair, Alcorn State legend and NFL MVP, led the Titans to a Super Bowl and was known for his toughness. He retired in 2007 with impressive passing and rushing stats.
31. Y. A. Tittle
Yelberton Abraham Tittle, known as Y.A., was born in Marshall, Texas, and starred at LSU before being drafted by the Detroit Lions in 1948. Tittle found his greatest success with the New York Giants, leading them to three NFL Championship appearances in the early 1960s. Known for his accurate passing and leadership, Tittle won MVP honors in 1963. He retired in 1964 with over 33,000 passing yards and was later inducted into the Hall of Fame. Tittle became a successful insurance executive after football.
Y.A. Tittle, LSU alum and 1963 MVP, led the Giants to multiple championship games. Retiring in 1964 with 33,000+ passing yards, he later found success in the insurance industry.
30. Sid Luckman
Sid Luckman, born in Brooklyn, New York, was a college football star at Columbia University before being drafted by the Chicago Bears in 1939. Luckman revolutionized the quarterback position with his mastery of the T-formation, leading the Bears to four NFL Championships in the 1940s. A three-time MVP, Luckman was known for his passing accuracy and leadership. He retired in 1950 with over 14,000 passing yards and was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1965. After football, he had a successful business career.
Sid Luckman, a Columbia star, revolutionized quarterbacking with the T-formation, leading the Bears to four NFL titles. A three-time MVP, he later thrived in business, leaving a lasting football legacy.
29. Ken Anderson
Ken Anderson, born in Batavia, Illinois, played college football at Augustana College before being drafted by the Cincinnati Bengals in 1971. Known for his accuracy and intelligence, Anderson led the NFL in passing four times and guided the Bengals to their first Super Bowl appearance in 1982. He won the NFL MVP and Comeback Player of the Year awards in 1981. After retiring in 1986, Anderson became a respected coach, serving in various capacities, including quarterbacks coach and offensive coordinator.
Ken Anderson, from tiny Augustana College to NFL MVP, led the Bengals to their first Super Bowl. Renowned for his accuracy, he later became a respected coach, mentoring quarterbacks and offenses.
28. Len Dawson
Len Dawson, born in Alliance, Ohio, played college football at Purdue before being drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers in 1957. Dawson found his greatest success with the Kansas City Chiefs, leading them to victory in Super Bowl IV and earning MVP honors. Known for his poise and accuracy, Dawson retired in 1975 with over 28,000 passing yards. He was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1987. After football, Dawson enjoyed a long and successful broadcasting career, becoming a beloved figure in Kansas City.
Len Dawson, Purdue alum and Super Bowl IV MVP, led the Chiefs to their first championship. A Hall of Famer, Dawson transitioned into a successful broadcasting career, remaining a Kansas City icon.
27. Donovan McNabb
Donovan McNabb, born in Chicago, Illinois, was a multi-sport star at Syracuse University before being drafted second overall by the Philadelphia Eagles in 1999. McNabb became the face of the Eagles franchise, leading them to five NFC Championship games and a Super Bowl appearance in 2005. Known for his mobility and strong arm, McNabb retired in 2011 with over 37,000 passing yards and 3,400 rushing yards. Since retiring, McNabb has worked as a television and radio analyst, sharing his football insights.
Donovan McNabb, Syracuse standout and Eagles legend, led his team to five NFC Championships and a Super Bowl. Known for his mobility, McNabb now shares his expertise as a TV and radio analyst.
26. Eli Manning
Eli Manning, born in New Orleans, Louisiana, is the youngest son of NFL legend Archie Manning and brother to fellow quarterback Peyton Manning. Eli carved his own path in football, starring at Ole Miss before being drafted first overall by the San Diego Chargers in 2004 and then traded to the New York Giants. Manning spent his entire 16-year career with the Giants, leading them to two Super Bowl victories, both times earning Super Bowl MVP honors. Eli is known for his durability and clutch performances in the playoffs, cementing his legacy as one of the greatest to ever play.
Eli Manning, a New Orleans native and part of a football dynasty, led the Giants to two Super Bowl wins. Known for his clutch plays and durability, he remains a Giants legend.
25. Kurt Warner
Kurt Warner’s journey to NFL greatness is one of the most remarkable stories in sports. Born in Burlington, Iowa, Warner went undrafted out of Northern Iowa and famously worked as a grocery store stocker before getting his break in the NFL with the St. Louis Rams in 1998. Warner led the Rams to a Super Bowl victory in 1999, earning MVP honors. He later played for the Giants and Cardinals, leading the latter to a Super Bowl appearance in 2008. Warner’s story and achievements have inspired many, and he was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2017.
Kurt Warner, once a grocery store worker, became an NFL MVP and Super Bowl champion with the Rams. His Cinderella story and strong leadership earned him a place in the Hall of Fame.
24. Russell Wilson
Born in Cincinnati, Ohio, and raised in Richmond, Virginia, Russell Wilson was a multi-sport star before deciding to focus on football. He played college football at NC State and Wisconsin before being drafted by the Seattle Seahawks in the third round of the 2012 NFL Draft. Wilson quickly became a star, leading the Seahawks to back-to-back Super Bowls, winning in 2014. Known for his mobility and leadership, Wilson has set numerous records, including being the fastest quarterback to reach 100 wins. He now plays for the Denver Broncos, continuing to build his legacy.
Russell Wilson, a dual-sport athlete in college, led the Seahawks to a Super Bowl win and now plays for the Broncos. Known for his speed and leadership, he continues to shine in the NFL.
23. Joe Namath
Joe Namath, famously known as “Broadway Joe,” was born in Beaver Falls, Pennsylvania, and played college football at Alabama. Drafted by both the NFL and AFL in 1965, Namath chose the New York Jets, where he would become a cultural icon. He famously guaranteed a Super Bowl victory in 1969, delivering on that promise with a win over the Colts, earning MVP honors. Namath’s swagger and deep passing game made him a household name, and though he retired in 1977, his influence on the game remains profound.
Joe Namath, aka “Broadway Joe,” brought swagger to the NFL, leading the Jets to a historic Super Bowl win in 1969. His iconic guarantee and on-field success made him a legend.
22. Dan Fouts
Dan Fouts, born in San Francisco, California, was a record-setting quarterback at the University of Oregon before being drafted by the San Diego Chargers in 1973. Fouts became the centerpiece of the Chargers' high-powered "Air Coryell" offense, leading the NFL in passing yards for four consecutive seasons (1979-1982). A six-time Pro Bowler, Fouts revolutionized the passing game with his quick release and deep throws. Though he never won a Super Bowl, Fouts’ impact on the game and his numerous passing records earned him a Hall of Fame induction in 1993.
Dan Fouts, the leader of the Chargers’ “Air Coryell” offense, was a prolific passer in the late ‘70s and early ‘80s. Though without a Super Bowl, his influence on the game is undeniable.
21. Ben Roethlisberger
Born in Lima, Ohio, Ben Roethlisberger starred at Miami University (Ohio) before being drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers in the first round of the 2004 NFL Draft. “Big Ben” quickly made a name for himself, leading the Steelers to two Super Bowl victories (2005 and 2008). Known for his size, toughness, and ability to extend plays, Roethlisberger became one of the most feared quarterbacks of his era. He retired in 2022, leaving behind a legacy that includes over 64,000 passing yards and 418 touchdowns.
Ben Roethlisberger, known as “Big Ben,” led the Steelers to two Super Bowl titles. His toughness and playmaking ability made him one of the best of his generation, retiring in 2022.
20. Otto Graham
Otto Graham, born in Waukegan, Illinois, was a multi-sport star at Northwestern University, excelling in basketball and football. After a brief stint in the Navy during World War II, Graham joined the Cleveland Browns in 1946 and became the most dominant quarterback of his era. Leading the Browns to ten straight championship appearances and seven titles, Graham set numerous records, including the highest career winning percentage for a starting quarterback. He retired in 1955 and was later inducted into the Hall of Fame.
Otto Graham, a multi-sport star, led the Browns to seven championships in ten years. His winning percentage and dominance in the 1940s and ‘50s earned him a Hall of Fame spot.
19. Sammy Baugh
Sammy Baugh, born in Temple, Texas, is considered one of the NFL’s first true superstars. A versatile athlete, Baugh excelled at baseball and football at TCU before being drafted by the Washington Redskins in 1937. Known as “Slingin’ Sammy,” Baugh revolutionized the passing game, leading the NFL in passing yards six times. He also excelled as a punter and defensive back. Baugh’s contributions to the game were so significant that he was one of the inaugural inductees into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1963.
Sammy Baugh, aka “Slingin’ Sammy,” changed the game with his passing skills. A standout for the Redskins, he was one of the first inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1963.
18. Bart Starr
Bart Starr, born in Montgomery, Alabama, is best known as the steady hand behind the Green Bay Packers’ dynasty of the 1960s. After a collegiate career at Alabama, Starr was drafted by the Packers in 1956. He led the team to five NFL championships, including the first two Super Bowl victories. Starr was known for his calm leadership and clutch performances, especially in the famous “Ice Bowl.” After retiring in 1971, Starr became a coach and later a beloved ambassador for the game.
Bart Starr, the leader of the Packers’ 1960s dynasty, won five NFL titles and two Super Bowls. Known for his poise and leadership, he became a coaching legend after retiring.
17. Fran Tarkenton
Fran Tarkenton, born in Richmond, Virginia, was known for his scrambling ability and improvisational skills that revolutionized the quarterback position. After starring at the University of Georgia, Tarkenton was drafted by the Minnesota Vikings in 1961. He spent 18 seasons in the NFL with the Vikings and New York Giants, retiring in 1978 as the league’s all-time leader in passing yards and touchdowns. Tarkenton’s innovative playstyle paved the way for future generations of mobile quarterbacks.
Fran Tarkenton, the NFL’s original dual-threat quarterback, set passing records with the Vikings and Giants. His creativity and mobility revolutionized the position, influencing many future stars.
16. Terry Bradshaw
Terry Bradshaw, born in Shreveport, Louisiana, was a standout at Louisiana Tech before being drafted first overall by the Pittsburgh Steelers in 1970. Bradshaw’s strong arm and leadership led the Steelers to four Super Bowl victories in the 1970s, earning him two Super Bowl MVP awards. Known for his toughness and clutch performances, Bradshaw retired in 1983 and transitioned into a successful career as a TV analyst and entertainer. His contributions to the game were recognized with a Hall of Fame induction in 1989.
Terry Bradshaw, a four-time Super Bowl champion with the Steelers, was known for his strong arm and leadership. After retiring, he became a beloved TV personality and Hall of Famer.
15. Jim Kelly
Jim Kelly, born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, was a multi-sport star in high school before focusing on football at the University of Miami. Drafted by the Buffalo Bills in 1983, Kelly initially chose to play in the USFL but joined the Bills in 1986. Kelly led the Bills to an unprecedented four consecutive Super Bowl appearances in the early 1990s, although they fell short each time. Known for his toughness and leadership, Kelly retired in 1996 and has since been active in charitable causes.
Jim Kelly, who led the Bills to four straight Super Bowls, is celebrated for his toughness and leadership. After retiring, he’s focused on philanthropy and raising awareness for cancer research.
14. Roger Staubach
Roger Staubach, known as “Captain America,” was born in Cincinnati, Ohio, and starred at the U.S. Naval Academy, winning the Heisman Trophy in 1963. After fulfilling his military service, Staubach joined the Dallas Cowboys in 1969, leading them to two Super Bowl victories and earning Super Bowl MVP honors in 1972. Known for his poise and ability to perform in clutch situations, Staubach retired in 1979 and became a successful businessman, further cementing his legacy as a true American hero.
Roger Staubach, aka “Captain America,” led the Cowboys to two Super Bowl wins after a successful college and military career. His poise and leadership made him an NFL legend.
13. Warren Moon
Warren Moon, born in Los Angeles, California, took a unique path to NFL stardom. After going undrafted in 1978, Moon headed to the Canadian Football League (CFL), where he became a star, winning five Grey Cups. He finally joined the NFL in 1984 with the Houston Oilers, where his strong arm and accuracy made him one of the league’s top quarterbacks. Moon became the first African American quarterback inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2006, leaving a lasting impact on the sport.
Warren Moon, after dominating the CFL, joined the NFL in 1984, becoming a star with the Oilers. Known for his strong arm, he made history as the first Black quarterback in the Hall of Fame.
12. Troy Aikman
Troy Aikman, born in West Covina, California, was a standout quarterback at UCLA before being drafted first overall by the Dallas Cowboys in 1989. Aikman led the Cowboys to three Super Bowl victories in the 1990s, earning Super Bowl MVP honors in 1992. Known for his accuracy, toughness, and leadership, Aikman retired in 2000 with over 32,000 passing yards. Since retiring, Aikman has become one of the most respected voices in football as a television analyst for NFL broadcasts.
Troy Aikman, a three-time Super Bowl champion with the Cowboys, was known for his accuracy and leadership. After retiring, he became a top NFL analyst, sharing his insights with fans.
11. Steve Young
Steve Young, born in Salt Lake City, Utah, was an outstanding athlete at BYU before starting his professional career in the USFL. Young joined the NFL with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 1985 but found success after being traded to the San Francisco 49ers, where he backed up Joe Montana before becoming the starter. Young led the 49ers to a Super Bowl victory in 1994, earning MVP honors. Known for his dual-threat ability, Young retired in 1999 and became a successful broadcaster and philanthropist.
Steve Young, after backing up Joe Montana, led the 49ers to a Super Bowl win in 1994. Known for his passing and running ability, he became a successful analyst after retiring.
10. Johnny Unitas
Johnny Unitas, born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, was known for his incredible work ethic and grit. After a rocky start to his career, Unitas found a home with the Baltimore Colts in 1956, where he revolutionized the passing game. Unitas led the Colts to three NFL championships, including the historic 1958 NFL Championship Game, often referred to as "The Greatest Game Ever Played." He retired in 1973, leaving behind numerous passing records and a legacy as one of the toughest quarterbacks to ever play.
Johnny Unitas, known for his toughness, led the Colts to three NFL titles and revolutionized the passing game. His legacy includes numerous records and an indelible impact on the sport.
9. Drew Brees
Drew Brees, born in Austin, Texas, overcame early doubts about his size to become one of the most prolific passers in NFL history. After starring at Purdue, Brees was drafted by the San Diego Chargers in 2001 before signing with the New Orleans Saints in 2006. Brees led the Saints to their first Super Bowl victory in 2009, earning MVP honors. Known for his accuracy and consistency, Brees retired in 2020 as the NFL’s all-time leader in passing yards and touchdowns.
Drew Brees, despite early doubts, became a record-setting passer with the Saints, leading them to a Super Bowl win in 2009. His accuracy and leadership have made him a true legend.
8. Patrick Mahomes
Patrick Mahomes, born in Tyler, Texas, is the son of former MLB pitcher Pat Mahomes, and he initially pursued both baseball and football at Texas Tech. Mahomes was drafted by the Kansas City Chiefs in 2017, and by his second season, he had taken the league by storm, winning MVP and leading the Chiefs to an AFC Championship. In 2020, Mahomes led the Chiefs to a Super Bowl victory, and his unique playstyle and arm strength have made him one of the most exciting players in the NFL today.
Patrick Mahomes, son of a former MLB player, led the Chiefs to a Super Bowl win early in his career. His arm strength and creativity make him one of the NFL’s brightest stars.
7. Brett Favre
Brett Favre, born in Gulfport, Mississippi, played college football at Southern Miss before being drafted by the Atlanta Falcons in 1991. Favre was traded to the Green Bay Packers in 1992, where he became a legend. Known for his gunslinger mentality, Favre led the Packers to a Super Bowl victory in 1996 and became the first player to win three consecutive MVP awards. Favre retired in 2010 with numerous passing records, including the most career touchdown passes at the time.
Brett Favre, a Mississippi native, became a legend with the Packers, winning three MVPs and a Super Bowl. His gunslinger style and toughness defined his Hall of Fame career.
6. Dan Marino
Dan Marino, born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, was a star at the University of Pittsburgh before being drafted by the Miami Dolphins in 1983. Marino quickly became one of the league’s most feared passers, setting numerous records, including becoming the first quarterback to throw for over 5,000 yards in a season. Although Marino never won a Super Bowl, his quick release and ability to read defenses made him one of the greatest quarterbacks of all time. Marino retired in 1999 and was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2005.
Dan Marino, a Pittsburgh native, set passing records with the Dolphins, becoming the first to surpass 5,000 yards in a season. Despite never winning a Super Bowl, he remains an all-time great.
5. Aaron Rodgers
Aaron Rodgers, born in Chico, California, played college football at Cal before being drafted by the Green Bay Packers in 2005. After sitting behind Brett Favre, Rodgers took over in 2008 and led the Packers to a Super Bowl victory in 2010. Known for his incredible arm talent and football IQ, Rodgers has won four MVP awards and is considered one of the most talented quarterbacks in NFL history. As of 2024, Rodgers continues to play, now with the New York Jets.
Aaron Rodgers, a California native, led the Packers to a Super Bowl win and has won four MVPs. Known for his arm talent, he remains one of the NFL’s top quarterbacks, now with the Jets.
4. Peyton Manning
Peyton Manning, born in New Orleans, Louisiana, is the son of NFL quarterback Archie Manning and older brother to Eli Manning. After a stellar college career at Tennessee, Peyton was drafted first overall by the Indianapolis Colts in 1998. Manning won two Super Bowls, one with the Colts and one with the Denver Broncos, and set numerous records, including five MVP awards and the most career touchdown passes at the time of his retirement in 2016. Manning has since become a successful television personality and entrepreneur.
Peyton Manning, a Louisiana native, won two Super Bowls and five MVPs during his career with the Colts and Broncos. He’s now a successful TV personality and entrepreneur after retiring in 2016.
3. John Elway
John Elway, born in Port Angeles, Washington, was a star at Stanford before being drafted first overall by the Baltimore Colts in 1983, only to be traded to the Denver Broncos. Elway became known for his strong arm and ability to lead game-winning drives, taking the Broncos to five Super Bowls, winning two. Elway retired in 1999 and later became an executive with the Broncos, helping them win another Super Bowl in 2015. His legacy as one of the greatest quarterbacks is secure.
John Elway, after leading the Broncos to five Super Bowls and winning two, became an executive, adding another Super Bowl to his resume. Known for his arm strength, he’s an NFL legend.
2. Joe Montana
Joe Montana, born in New Eagle, Pennsylvania, was known for his calm demeanor and clutch performances. After starring at Notre Dame, Montana was drafted by the San Francisco 49ers in 1979. Montana led the 49ers to four Super Bowl victories, earning MVP honors three times. His pinpoint accuracy and ability to perform under pressure earned him the nickname “Joe Cool.” Montana retired in 1994 after a brief stint with the Kansas City Chiefs and remains one of the most beloved figures in NFL history.
Joe Montana, “Joe Cool,” led the 49ers to four Super Bowl wins with his calm under pressure and accuracy. His legacy as one of the greatest is unquestioned, with four rings and three MVPs.
1. Tom Brady
Tom Brady, born in San Mateo, California, defied all odds after being drafted 199th overall by the New England Patriots in 2000. Brady went on to become the most successful quarterback in NFL history, winning seven Super Bowls—six with the Patriots and one with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Known for his unmatched work ethic and leadership, Brady holds numerous records, including the most career touchdown passes and wins by a quarterback. Brady retired in 2023, leaving behind a legacy as the greatest of all time.
Tom Brady, a sixth-round pick, became the most successful quarterback ever with seven Super Bowl wins. Known for his work ethic and leadership, he retired in 2023 as the GOAT.