- Ranking the seven best NFL quarterbacks of all time, led by Tom Brady.
- Joe Montana retired with a perfect 4-0 record in Super Bowls.
- Aaron Rodgers is the only active QB on the list.
The NFL gridiron has been graced by some of the most talented and impactful athletes in the history of sports. These quarterbacks showcased incredible leadership and moments of glory on the field to etch their names into the annals of NFL history.
Check out my list of the best NFL quarterbacks of all time.
7 Best NFL Quarterbacks of All Time
Rank | Name | Team(s) Played For |
---|---|---|
1 | Tom Brady | New England Patriots, Tampa Bay Buccaneers |
2 | Joe Montana | San Francisco 49ers, Kansas City Chiefs |
3 | Peyton Manning | Indianapolis Colts, Denver Broncos |
4 | Aaron Rodgers | Green Bay Packers, New York Jets |
5 | Johnny Unitas | Baltimore Colts, San Diego Chargers |
6 | Dan Marino | Miami Dolphins |
7 | Brett Favre | Green Bay Packers, New York Jets, Minnesota Vikings |
1. Tom Brady
No conversation about the greatest NFL quarterbacks can begin without mentioning Tom Brady. Seven Super Bowl titles, five Super Bowl MVPs, and countless league records. Brady’s longevity, consistency, and ability to perform under pressure set him apart as the greatest of all time.
It’s no wonder New England and Tampa Bay typically had solid football odds to win the Super Bowl when Brady was behind center.
2. Joe Montana
“Joe Cool” was the definition of poise under pressure. With four Super Bowl titles and three Super Bowl MVPs, Montana was the master of the comeback and the symbol of quarterbacking excellence in the 1980s and early 1990s. His precision passing and leadership were the cornerstones of the San Francisco 49ers dynasty.
Joe Montana to Dwight Clark in the 1981 NFC Championship.
The Catch. 40 years ago today. (Jan. 10, 1982) pic.twitter.com/VRDS3SGfYO
— NFL Legacy (@NFLLegacy) January 10, 2022
He threw the pass forever memorialized in NFL lore as “The Catch” and was a part of one of the largest blowouts in Super Bowl history as his San Francisco 49ers defeated the Denver Broncos 55-10 in Super Bowl XXIV.
3. Peyton Manning
Peyton Manning redefined the quarterback position with his unmatched football intellect and on-field aura. Chants of “Omaha, Omaha” will be heard on the gridiron for years to come because of “The Sheriff.”
Highlighted by two Super Bowl victories and five NFL MVP awards, Manning’s career was a testament to his ability to read NFL defences and put his players in the best position to succeed.
4. Aaron Rodgers
The only active player on our list, Aaron Rodgers’ extraordinary arm talent, paired with an unbelievable football mind made him an all-time great.
Known for his passing accuracy and high football IQ, Rodgers’ career is highlighted by a Super Bowl victory and four NFL MVP awards, making him one of the most skilled quarterbacks to ever grace the gridiron.
5. Johnny Unitas
Johnny Unitas set the standard for what it meant to be an NFL quarterback in the 1950s and 60s.
His record of 47 consecutive games with a touchdown pass stood for over 50 years. Unitas’ toughness, arm strength and leadership made him a legend for the Baltimore Colts. He led the Colts to victory in “The Greatest Game Ever Played” and Super Bowl V.
6. Dan Marino
Known for his quick release and powerful arm, Marino put up modern passing stats in the early 1980s. Even today, he’s known as one of the NFL’s purest passers. Despite never winning a Super Bowl, record-setting performances throughout his career cemented his status as one of the best quarterbacks in NFL history.
7. Brett Favre
Brett Favre’s career was defined by his astonishing durability, toughness, and gunslinger attitude. No. 4’s personality made him a fan favourite on and off the field.
His record for consecutive starts speaks to his incredible resilience, while his Super Bowl win and three straight MVP awards highlight his ability to make the impossible look ordinary.