Best Quarterbacks of All Time: Ranking the Legends of the NFL
When you think of football, one of the first positions that come to mind is undoubtedly the quarterback. This pivotal role has shaped the success of many legendary NFL teams. Throughout the years, a select group of quarterbacks has etched their names into the annals of history, not only because of their individual talent but also their ability to lead their teams to greatness. But who exactly are the best quarterbacks of all time?
In this article, we’ll delve deep into the career achievements, statistics, and impact of the top quarterbacks in NFL history. From Super Bowl victories to MVP awards, these players have redefined the game and left a lasting legacy. Let’s break down the best quarterbacks of all time, exploring the criteria that define greatness and ranking the very best.
How Are the Best Quarterbacks of All Time Ranked?
Ranking the best quarterbacks of all time in the NFL isn’t an easy task, as there are many factors to consider. However, we’ll focus on key metrics to determine each quarterback’s standing:
Career Statistics
Passing yards, touchdown-to-interception ratio, and passer rating provide valuable insights into a quarterback’s consistency and skill.
Super Bowl Victories
Championship wins are often the ultimate measure of success for NFL quarterbacks.
Individual Awards
MVPs, Pro Bowl selections, and All-Pro honors reflect the respect a quarterback commands among peers and coaches.
Longevity and Impact
A quarterback's influence on the game, including their ability to evolve with changing eras and remain at the top of their game, is crucial.
Clutch Performances
Playoff success and the ability to perform under pressure are essential traits for any quarterback considered among the best.
With these criteria in mind, let’s dive into the list of the best quarterbacks of all time.
Tom Brady: The Greatest of All Time
Career Stats and Achievements:
- Super Bowl Titles: 7
- Career Passing Yards: 89,214
- Career Touchdowns: 649
- MVP Awards: 3 (2007, 2010, 2017)
- Pro Bowls: 15
Tom Brady’s name is synonymous with success in the NFL. With an unprecedented seven Super Bowl victories, Brady holds the record for the most championships by any player in NFL history. His longevity and consistency have made him arguably the best quarterback of all time.
Brady’s impact on the game cannot be overstated. He redefined what it meant to be a quarterback, winning Super Bowls in multiple decades and with different teams, the New England Patriots and Tampa Bay Buccaneers. His ability to perform in clutch moments, especially in the postseason, sets him apart from others.
Why He's the GOAT
Brady’s career has been marked by his leadership, adaptability, and mental toughness. His success wasn’t just about physical talent, but about making the right decisions in key moments, leading his team to victory time and time again.
Joe Montana: The King of Clutch
Career Stats and Achievements:
- Super Bowl Titles: 4
- Career Passing Yards: 40,551
- Career Touchdowns: 273
- MVP Awards: 2 (1989, 1990)
- Pro Bowls: 8
Joe Montana was the epitome of a quarterback who could deliver in big moments. With four Super Bowl titles and an undefeated Super Bowl record, Montana is often regarded as the best quarterback of all time in the NFL for his ability to perform in clutch situations.
Montana’s postseason performances were legendary, making him one of the most respected quarterbacks in the history of the game. His precision, poise, and leadership earned him the nickname “Joe Cool.”
Montana's Influence
Montana set a standard for postseason excellence, and his legacy continues to influence future generations of quarterbacks. His performance in Super Bowls, including his 1989 victory against the Denver Broncos, is often cited as one of the best performances ever in a title game.
Peyton Manning: The Architect of Offenses
Career Stats and Achievements:
- Super Bowl Titles: 2
- Career Passing Yards: 71,940
- Career Touchdowns: 539
- MVP Awards: 5 (2003, 2004, 2008, 2009, 2013)
- Pro Bowls: 14
Peyton Manning is widely regarded as one of the greatest quarterbacks due to his football IQ and ability to orchestrate offenses. Over his career, Manning led both the Indianapolis Colts and Denver Broncos to significant success, culminating in two Super Bowl wins.
Manning’s career statistics are impressive, and his five MVP awards are the most by any player in NFL history. His ability to read defenses and change plays at the line of scrimmage revolutionized the quarterback position.
Manning’s Legacy
Manning’s preparation and cerebral approach to the game made him a model for future quarterbacks. His best quarterbacks of all time stats speak for themselves, but it was his innovative mindset that truly set him apart from his peers.
Brett Favre: The Iron Man
Career Stats and Achievements:
- Super Bowl Titles: 1
- Career Passing Yards: 71,838
- Career Touchdowns: 508
- MVP Awards: 3 (1995, 1996, 1997)
- Pro Bowls: 11
Brett Favre’s career is one of both remarkable highs and poignant lows, but his longevity and passion for the game are unmatched. Favre played for an incredible 20 seasons, earning three MVP awards and leading the Green Bay Packers to a Super Bowl victory in 1997.
Favre’s arm strength and ability to make difficult throws were legendary, but it was his resilience and record for consecutive starts (297) that earned him the title of the NFL’s Iron Man.
Favre’s Impact on the Game
Favre’s fearless style of play and his unrelenting drive made him a fan favorite. His remarkable durability and ability to perform consistently at a high level left a lasting legacy on the quarterback position.
Johnny Unitas: The Pioneer
Career Stats and Achievements:
- Super Bowl Titles: 1
- Career Passing Yards: 40,239
- Career Touchdowns: 290
- MVP Awards: 3 (1957, 1964, 1967)
- Pro Bowls: 10
Johnny Unitas is considered the father of modern quarterbacking. Playing in an era where the game was very different, Unitas helped pave the way for the future of the NFL. He led the Baltimore Colts to two NFL championships and was a key figure in shaping the passing game as we know it today.
His innovative use of the two-minute drill and ability to perform in critical moments laid the foundation for the great quarterbacks that followed.
Unitas’ Legacy
Unitas’ influence on the game extended far beyond his time on the field. His leadership and innovative style of play revolutionized the quarterback position, making him a pivotal figure in NFL history.
The Top 10 Best Quarterbacks of All Time
While Brady, Montana, Manning, Favre, and Unitas certainly occupy spots at the top of the list, several other quarterbacks have earned their place in the top 10 best quarterbacks of all time. These include:
Dan Marino
Known for his powerful arm, Marino revolutionized passing stats in the 1980s and 1990s.
Aaron Rodgers
With his pinpoint accuracy and ability to make plays under pressure, Rodgers is a modern legend.
Drew Brees
The all-time leader in passing yards, Brees changed the game with his accuracy and consistency.
Steve Young (honorable mention)
Known for his dynamic dual-threat ability, Steve Young was one of the most complete quarterbacks of his era. With three Super Bowl titles (two as a backup and one as a starter), an MVP award, and remarkable statistics, Young’s impact on the game is undeniable. His blend of passing accuracy and mobility set him apart from many of his contemporaries, making him a true legend in NFL history.
Stats, Achievements, and Legacy
Each of these quarterbacks has impacted the NFL in their own unique way. Whether it’s Marino’s early dominance, Rodgers’ ability to throw on the run, or Brees’ precision passing, each of these players has helped define the quarterback position.
Ranking the Best Quarterbacks of All Time
While ranking the best quarterbacks of all time is a subjective endeavor, the players we’ve mentioned have made indelible marks on the NFL. From the seven Super Bowl victories of Tom Brady to Joe Montana’s perfect Super Bowl record, these players embody what it means to be a great quarterback.
The list is not just about numbers, but about the legacy these quarterbacks have created. Whether it’s Super Bowl victories, MVP awards, or game-changing performances, each quarterback on this list has earned their place in history.
Now, it’s your turn! Who do you think is the best quarterback of all time? Share your thoughts in the comments below and explore more NFL content here on the site!
