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The Best Quarterbacks Of All Time

Who are the best quarterbacks of all time? That is a question that experts have been tackling since the NFL first started in the 1920s. Defining who the best quarterback of all time isn't easy since every fan has a different criteria that defines who is the best NFL quarterback. If you like championships, then famous quarterbacks like Joe Montana, Johnny Unitas, Tom Brady, Terry Bradshaw, Peyton Manning, and Bart Starr are clearly top 10 QBs. If you like gaudy numbers then you're more likely to be a fan of Dan Marino and Brett Favre as top ten choices. The top quarterbacks of all time are known for their excellent skills and leadership on the field. The quarterback position is the most important in football. The position entails being a coach on the field who can call and adjust plays on a whim and being able to dissect the defensive coverage by taking a peek at what they're showing, all while having the ability to avoid the oncoming pass rush and make accurate throws. Sounds easy right? These gentlemen, who are considered the best NFL quarterbacks of all time, have the rare ability to do all of these things in a matter of seconds. Vote for whoever you think should get the title of best quarterbacks in NFL history. If you see someone who is missing, feel free to add them to this ultimate list of the best NFL quarterbacks of all time.

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  1. 1

    Tom Brady

    7× Super Bowl champion (XXXVI, XXXVIII, XXXIX, XLIX, LI, LIII, LV) 5× Super Bowl MVP (XXXVI, XXXVIII, XLIX, LI, LV) 3× NFL Most Valuable Player (2007, 2010, 2017) 2× NFL Offensive Player of the Year (2007, 2010) NFL Comeback Player of the Year (2009) 3× First-team All-Pro (2007, 2010, 2017) 14× Pro Bowl (2001, 2004, 2005, 2007, 2009–2018) 4× NFL passing touchdowns leader (2002, 2007, 2010, 2015) 3× NFL passing yards leader (2005, 2007, 2017) 2× NFL passer rating leader (2007, 2010) NFL completion percentage leader (2007) Tom Brady's name is synonymous with greatness, as he's established himself as one of the most legendary quarterbacks in NFL history. Known for his uncanny ability to win under pressure, Brady has proven time and time again that he possesses unrivaled leadership skills and an unwavering determination to succeed. His pinpoint accuracy, exceptional arm strength, and remarkable downfield vision have allowed him to cement his status as a true icon in the sport. Stack those qualities on top of his impressive collection of records, awards, and championships, and it becomes clear that Tom Brady's legacy will endure for generations to come.

    69% upvoted
  2. 2

    Peyton Manning

    2× Super Bowl champion (XLI, L) Super Bowl MVP (XLI) 5× NFL Most Valuable Player (2003, 2004, 2008, 2009, 2013) 2× NFL Offensive Player of the Year (2004, 2013) NFL Comeback Player of the Year (2012) 7× First-team All-Pro (2003–2005, 2008, 2009, 2012, 2013) 14× Pro Bowl (1999, 2000, 2002–2010, 2012–2014) 3× NFL passing yards leader (2000, 2003, 2013) 4× NFL passing touchdowns leader (2000, 2004, 2006, 2013) 2× NFL completion percentage leader (2003, 2012) 3× NFL passer rating leader (2004–2006) NFL Hall of Fame The Sheriff, as he was often referred to, Peyton Manning revolutionized the position of quarterback with his extraordinary intelligence and ability to read defenses like no other. Manning demonstrated an incredible work ethic throughout his career, constantly analyzing opponents and adjusting his strategy to achieve success. Combining his relentless competitive spirit with his precise decision-making abilities, Manning was able to consistently dominate defenses and pick them apart with ease. With numerous MVP awards and two Super Bowl titles under his belt, Peyton Manning's storied career stands as a testament to the sheer force of will and determination required to reach the pinnacle of quarterback excellence.

    57% upvoted
  3. 3

    Aaron Rodgers

    Super Bowl champion (XLV) Super Bowl MVP (XLV) 3× NFL Most Valuable Player (2011, 2014, 2020) 3× First-team All-Pro (2011, 2014, 2020) 9× Pro Bowl (2009, 2011, 2012, 2014–2016, 2018–2020) 3x NFL passer rating leader (2011, 2012, 2020) 2× NFL passing touchdowns leader (2016, 2020) NFL completion percentage leader (2020) A master of the quarterback position, Aaron Rodgers combines innate football intelligence with remarkable physical gifts. His quick decision-making, pinpoint accuracy, and powerful arm have made him a nightmare for opposing defenses throughout his career. Off the field, Rodgers' cerebral approach and steadfast leadership help guide his team through even the most trying of circumstances. With a Super Bowl victory and multiple MVP awards to his name, Aaron Rodgers' place among the best quarterbacks of all time is unquestionable.

    57% upvoted
  4. 4

    Dan Marino

    NFL Most Valuable Player (1984) NFL Offensive Player of the Year (1984) NFL Comeback Player of the Year (1994) 3× First-team All-Pro (1984–1986) 9× Pro Bowl (1983–1987, 1991, 1992, 1994, 1995) 5× NFL passing yards leader (1984–1986, 1988, 1992) 3× NFL passing touchdowns leader (1984–1986) NFL passer rating leader (1984) NFL Hall of Fame Dan Marino's remarkable career is defined by his incredible arm strength and lightning-fast release, making him one of the most dangerous passers in NFL history. A true student of the game, Marino possessed an extraordinary football IQ, enabling him to dissect defenses with surgical precision. His competitiveness was evident in every snap, as he consistently rose to the occasion in high-pressure situations. Though he never won a Super Bowl, Marino's awe-inspiring talents and sheer determination make him one of the all-time greats at the quarterback position.​​​​​​​

    57% upvoted
  5. 5

    Brett Favre

    Super Bowl champion (XXXI) 3× NFL Most Valuable Player (1995–1997) NFL Offensive Player of the Year (1995) 3× First-team All-Pro (1995–1997) 3× Second-team All-Pro (2001, 2002, 2007) 11× Pro Bowl (1992, 1993, 1995–1997, 2001–2003, 2007–2009) 4× NFL passing touchdowns leader (1995–1997, 2003) 2× NFL passing yards leader (1995, 1998) NFL completion percentage leader (1998) NFL 1990s All-Decade Team NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team The embodiment of football grit and determination, Brett Favre was a force of nature on the field, showcasing an unparalleled passion for the game. Known for his rocket arm and uncanny ability to improvise, Favre often made jaw-dropping plays that left fans and opponents alike in awe. His wild, gunslinger-style of play made him a thrill to watch, and he had a knack for finding ways to win even when the chips were down. With his signature resilience and infectious enthusiasm, Brett Favre captured the hearts of football fans everywhere while smashing records and propelling his teams to success.

    57% upvoted
  6. 6

    Johnny Unitas

    Super Bowl champion (V) 3× NFL champion (1958, 1959, 1968) 3× NFL Most Valuable Player (1959, 1964, 1967) NFL Man of the Year (1970) 5× First-team All-Pro (1958, 1959, 1964, 1965, 1967) 3× Second-team All-Pro (1957, 1960, 1963) 10× Pro Bowl (1957–1964, 1966, 1967) 4× NFL passing yards leader (1957, 1959, 1960, 1963) 4× NFL passing touchdowns leader (1957–1960) 2× NFL passer rating leader (1958, 1965) NFL completion percentage leader (1967) NFL 1960s All-Decade Team NFL 50th Anniversary All-Time Team NFL 75th Anniversary All-Time Team NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team A cornerstone of football greatness, Johnny Unitas set the standard for what it meant to be a true leader on the gridiron. His unwavering poise and confidence in the face of adversity inspired his teammates to rally behind him, while his keen sense of timing and deft decision-making enabled him to orchestrate unforgettable game-winning drives. Unitas possessed a powerful arm and splendid downfield vision, leaving defenders scrambling to keep up with his precise darting passes. A pioneer among quarterbacks, Johnny Unitas remains a gold standard to which all aspiring signal-callers aspire.

    57% upvoted
  7. 7

    Steve Young

    3× Super Bowl champion (XXIII, XXIV, XXIX) Super Bowl MVP (XXIX) 2× NFL Most Valuable Player (1992, 1994) NFL Offensive Player of the Year (1992) 3× First-team All-Pro (1992–1994) 7× Pro Bowl (1992–1998) 4× NFL passing touchdowns leader (1992–1994, 1998) 6× NFL passer rating leader (1991–1994, 1996, 1997) 5× NFL completion percentage leader (1992, 1994–1997) NFL Hall of Fame Steve Young's incredible dual-threat capabilities made him one of the most exciting quarterbacks to watch in NFL history. With a strong arm and nimble legs, Young could beat defenses through the air or on the ground, making it nearly impossible for opponents to contain him. His football intelligence and competitive spirit allowed him to excel under pressure, often leading his team to thrilling come-from-behind victories. A Super Bowl champion, MVP, and Hall of Famer, Steve Young's exceptional skill set and indomitable will to win secured his place among the all-time greats.​​​​​​​

    57% upvoted
  8. 8

    Joe Montana

    4× Super Bowl champion (XVI, XIX, XXIII, XXIV) 3× Super Bowl MVP (XVI, XIX, XXIV) 2× NFL Most Valuable Player (1989, 1990) NFL Offensive Player of the Year (1989) NFL Comeback Player of the Year (1986) 3× First-team All-Pro (1987, 1989, 1990) 2× Second-team All-Pro (1981, 1984) 8× Pro Bowl (1981, 1983–1985, 1987, 1989, 1990, 1993) 2× NFL passing touchdowns leader (1982, 1987) 2× NFL passer rating leader (1987, 1989) 5× NFL completion percentage leader (1980, 1981, 1985, 1987, 1989) NFL 1980s All-Decade Team NFL 75th Anniversary All-Time Team NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team Joe Cool, as he was affectionately known, Joe Montana epitomized grace under pressure with his unmatched poise and calm demeanor in the game's most critical moments. With an uncanny ability to make the right decision at the right time, Montana led his teams to four Super Bowl championships and secured his status as one of the greatest quarterbacks in NFL history. His innate leadership, combined with his exceptional arm talent and flawless decision-making, made Montana a force to be reckoned with on the gridiron. A true icon of the sport, Joe Montana's contributions to the game will be celebrated for generations to come.

    55% upvoted
  9. 9

    Jim Kelly

    5× Pro Bowl (1987, 1988, 1990–1992) First-team All-Pro (1991) NFL passing touchdowns leader (1991) NFL passer rating leader (1990) NFL completion percentage leader (1990) NFL Hall of Fame Jim Kelly, the heart and soul of the Buffalo Bills throughout the 1990s, inspired a generation with his relentless grit, determination, and leadership. Known for his powerful arm and exceptional decision-making, Kelly was instrumental in guiding the Bills to an unprecedented four consecutive Super Bowl appearances. Though they never managed to secure a championship, Kelly's unwavering commitment to his team and the game earned him a place in the hearts of football fans everywhere. Inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2002, Jim Kelly's legacy as one of the all-time great quarterbacks remains unquestioned.​​​​​​​

    56% upvoted
  10. 10

    Bart Starr

    2× Super Bowl champion (I, II) 2× Super Bowl MVP (I, II) 5× NFL champion (1961, 1962, 1965–1967) NFL Most Valuable Player (1966) First-team All-Pro (1966) 3× Second-team All-Pro (1961, 1962, 1964) 4× Pro Bowl (1960–1962, 1966) 5× NFL passer rating leader (1962, 1964, 1966, 1968, 1969) 4× NFL completion percentage leader (1962, 1966, 1968, 1969) NFL 1960s All-Decade Team A true icon of the sport, Bart Starr's legacy is cemented by his remarkable leadership, poise under pressure, and unwavering dedication to winning. With a remarkable football mind and a keen understanding of how to exploit defenses, Starr consistently rose to the occasion in the season's most important moments. His achievements, including five NFL championships and two Super Bowl titles, speak volumes about his exceptional abilities as a quarterback. Bart Starr's place in history as one of the all-time greats is unquestionable, as his influence on the game continues to be felt today.

    55% upvoted