By James Parker, 9/28/2024
The quarterback (QB) position is arguably the most critical role in American football. Over the decades, we’ve witnessed some phenomenal talents who have not only redefined the game but also left an indelible mark on NFL history. Here’s a countdown of the top 10 quarterbacks of all time.
10. Terry Bradshaw
Pittsburgh Steelers’ quarterback Terry Bradshaw prepares to throw a pass to one of his fellow teammates.
Image Credit: Getty Images
- Teams: Pittsburgh Steelers (1970–1983)
- Accolades: 4× Super Bowl Champion, 2× Super Bowl MVP, Pro Football Hall of Fame Inductee
Bradshaw led the Steelers to four Super Bowl victories in six seasons, showcasing exceptional leadership and clutch performance in big games.
9. Roger Staubach
DALLAS, TX – NOVEMBER 23: Quarterback Roger Staubach #12 of Dallas Cowboys runs with the ball against the San Francisco 49ers during an NFL football game at Texas Stadium November 23, 1972 in Dallas, Texas. Staubach played for the Cowboys from 1969-79.
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- Teams: Dallas Cowboys (1969–1979)
- Accolades: 2× Super Bowl Champion, Super Bowl MVP, 6× Pro Bowl
Known as “Captain America,” Staubach was a pioneer of the dual-threat quarterback, combining passing prowess with rushing ability.
8. Drew Brees
SAN DIEGO, CA – OCTOBER 02: Drew Brees #9 of the New Orleans Saints warms up ahead of a game against the San Diego Chargers at Qualcomm Stadium on October 2, 2016 in San Diego, California.
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- Teams: San Diego Chargers (2001–2005), New Orleans Saints (2006–2020)
- Accolades: Super Bowl Champion, Super Bowl MVP, 13× Pro Bowl
Brees holds numerous NFL records, including career passing yards and completions, and is renowned for his accuracy and leadership.
7. Dan Marino
MIAMI, FL – SEPTEMBER 16: Quarterback Dan Marino #13 of the Miami Dolphins rolls out to pass against the Buffalo Bills during an NFL football game September 16, 1990 at Joe Robbie Stadium in Miami, Florida. Marino played for the Dolphins from 1983-99.
Image Credit: Getty Images
- Teams: Miami Dolphins (1983–1999)
- Accolades: NFL MVP, 9× Pro Bowl, Pro Football Hall of Fame Inductee
Despite never winning a Super Bowl, Marino’s passing records and impact on the game secure his place among the greats.
6. John Elway
SAN DIEGO, CA – JANUARY 25: John Elway #7 of the Denver Broncos turns to hand the ball off to a running back against the Green Bay Packers during Super Bowl XXXII on January 25, 1998 at Qualcomm Stadium in San Diego, California. The Broncos won the Super Bowl 31-24.
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- Teams: Denver Broncos (1983–1998)
- Accolades: 2× Super Bowl Champion, Super Bowl MVP, NFL MVP
Elway’s comeback victories and rocket arm made him one of the most exciting quarterbacks to watch.
5. Aaron Rodgers
EAST RUTHERFORD, NEW JERSEY – SEPTEMBER 19: Aaron Rodgers #8 of the New York Jets reacts as he throws a pass as he warms up prior to an NFL football game between the New York Jets and the New England Patriots at MetLife Stadium on September 19, 2024 in East Rutherford, New Jersey.
Image Credit: Getty Images
- Teams: Green Bay Packers (2005–2022), New York Jets (2023–Present)
- Accolades: Super Bowl Champion, Super Bowl MVP, 4× NFL MVP
Rodgers is known for his incredible arm strength, accuracy, and ability to make impossible throws look easy. In 2023, he was traded to the New York Jets, marking a new chapter in his illustrious career.
4. Brett Favre
EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ – OCTOBER 11: Brett Favre #4 of the Minnesota Vikings gestures as he walks off the field after the game against the New York Jets on October 11, 2010 at the New Meadowlands Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey.The Jets defeated the Vikings 29 to 20.
Image Credit: Getty Images
- Teams:
- Atlanta Falcons: 1991
- Green Bay Packers: 1992–2007
- New York Jets: 2008
- Minnesota Vikings: 2009–2010
- Accolades: Super Bowl Champion, 3× NFL MVP, 11× Pro Bowl
Favre’s ironman streak and gunslinger mentality made him one of the most durable and exciting players in NFL history. He holds the record for the most consecutive starts by an NFL player.
3. Joe Montana
This 30 October 94 file photo shows Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Joe Montana (19) preparing to pass against the rush of Buffalo Bills Bruce Smith (78) in Buffalo, NY. Montana is widely expected to announce his retirement from professional football 18 April in San Francisco. Montana led the San Francisco 49ers to four Super Bowl victories in the 1980s.
Image Credit: Getty Images
- Teams: San Francisco 49ers (1979–1992), Kansas City Chiefs (1993–1994)
- Accolades: 4× Super Bowl Champion, 3× Super Bowl MVP, 2× NFL MVP
“Joe Cool” was the epitome of poise under pressure, leading multiple game-winning drives in crucial moments.
2. Peyton Manning
OAKLAND, CA – DECEMBER 16: Peyton Manning #18 of the Indianapolis Colts looks to pass against the Oakland Raiders during an NFL football game on December 16, 2007 at the Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum in Oakland, California. Manning played for the Colts from 1998-2011.
Image Credit: Getty Images
- Teams: Indianapolis Colts (1998–2011), Denver Broncos (2012–2015)
- Accolades: 2× Super Bowl Champion, 5× NFL MVP, 14× Pro Bowl
Manning’s football IQ and ability to read defenses revolutionized the quarterback position.
1. Tom Brady
DETROIT, MICHIGAN – DECEMBER 26: Tom Brady #12 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers looks on before the game against the Detroit Lions at Ford Field on December 26, 2020 in Detroit, Michigan.
Image Credit: Getty Images
- Teams: New England Patriots (2000–2019), Tampa Bay Buccaneers (2020–2022)
- Accolades: 7× Super Bowl Champion, 5× Super Bowl MVP, 3× NFL MVP
Brady’s unparalleled success, longevity, and clutch performances make him the greatest quarterback of all time.
Honorable Mentions
- Steve Young
- Bart Starr
- Fran Tarkenton
Conclusion
The debate over the greatest quarterbacks is always evolving, but these legends have cemented their legacy through outstanding achievements and contributions to the game. Whether it’s Super Bowl rings, MVP awards, or record-breaking performances, each has left a unique mark on NFL history.
What’s Your Take?
Did your favorite quarterback make the list? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
Author Bio: James Parker is a sports enthusiast and freelance writer with a passion for football history. Born and raised in Cleveland, Ohio, James grew up immersed in football culture. Attending Cleveland Browns games with his father sparked his lifelong fascination with the sport. He pursued a degree in Journalism at Northwestern University’s Medill School of Journalism, where he graduated with honors. During his college years, James covered college football for the university newspaper, honing his skills in sports writing and analysis.