30. Jevon Kearse
A first-round pick by the Titans in 1999, Kearse wasted no time cementing himself as one of the top pass rushers in the league. In his rookie season, Kearse registered 14.5 sacks, eight pass deflections, and a league-high nine forced fumbles. He was named Rookie of the Year and finished second in Defensive Player of the Year voting. His speed, size and explosiveness earned him the nickname “The Freak”. While his career didn’t span a lengthy amount of time, Kearse’s impact was surely felt. He was widely regarded as one of the most feared pass rushers of his era.
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29. Myles Garrett
Just six years into his career, Myles Garrett has already accomplished so much and continues to get better. 2022 was the best season to date for Garrett. The former No. 1 overall pick finished fifth in Defensive Player of the Year voting after recording 16.0 sacks over 16 games. Garrett ranks second in sacks (67.5) since 2018. He’s been named a Pro Bowler and All-Pro selection in each of the four seasons that he’s been fully healthy. The Cleveland edge rusher is the type of superstar that you can build an entire defense around. And, he’s still in the heart of his prime.
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28. T.J. Watt
Not many expected T.J. Watt to be this good. The former Wisconsin Badger was the 30th overall selection in the 2017 NFL Draft — being selected behind several other pass rushers. The hybrid linebacker/end showed flashes as a rookie, but really broke out as a sophomore in 2018 when he collected 13.0 sacks en route to a Pro Bowl nod. He finished third, second, and finally first in Defensive Player of the Year voting from ’19-21 — collecting 52.0 sacks and 15 forced fumbles over 46 games. Watt’s ability lies in his versatility. He’s perfectly comfortable dropping back and helping in pass coverage, but is an absolute terror when running down hill and corralling quarterbacks.
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27. Clay Matthews Jr.
Following in his father’s footsteps, Clay Matthews Jr. was also a first-round pick edge rusher out of USC. While Senior enjoyed the longer career, it was Junior who arguably had the greater impact. By Year 2, Matthews Jr. had become one of the most feared defensive playmakers in the league. In 2010, he finished with 13.5 sacks and 25 QB hits on his way to an All-Pro nod and a second-place finish in Defensive Player of the Year voting. He helped the Packers win the Super Bowl, starting all four playoff matchups and collecting 3.5 sacks. Matthews Jr. finished with six Pro Bowl honors.
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26. Merlin Olsen
A member of the “Fearsome Foursome,” Olsen spent his entire career with the Los Angeles Rams. Olsen played 15 seasons in the NFL, and was named a Pro Bowler on 14 occasions — only Tom Brady has more Pro Bowl nods. As a defensive tackle, Olsen stood out for his ability to rush the passer. Lining up alongside Deacon Jones, Lamar Lundy and Rosey Grier, the Rams’ defensive line terrorized opposing offenses and completely took over games. Olsen was named a Hall of Famer in 1982, and enjoyed a successful career off the field as an actor (Little House on the Prairie, Father Murphy).
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25. Richard Dent
An unsung hero from the 1985 Chicago Bears, Dent was a key cog for arguably the greatest defense in league history. Dent was drafted in 1983, but operated as a reserve throughout much of his rookie season. In Year 2, Dent exploded for 17.5 sacks despite starting in only 10 games. ’85 marked the first year Dent was a locked-in starter, and he delivered by leading the league with 17.0 sacks and seven forced fumbles. The Bears finished the season first in all major defensive categories. In the playoffs, Dent was a wrecking ball registering 6.0 sacks in Chicago’s three wins.
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24. Rickey Jackson
New Orleans Saints all-time great pass rusher Rickey Jackson often times gets overlooked. That might be because Jackson was a member of the highly-decorated 1981 draft class which featured six defensive players who would go on to make the Hall of Fame — including Lawrence Taylor, Mike Singletary and Howie Long. Jackson’s numbers are right up there with his peers. The 2010 Hall of Fame inductee finished his career with 136.0 sacks and 40 forced fumbles. Jackson was a member of the famed “Dome Patrol” Saints defense which is regarded as the best linebacking group in league history.
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23. John Abraham
John Abraham was drafted in 2000 and was a productive pass rusher all the way until his final season. Abraham was named a First-Team All-Pro in 2001 for the Jets under Herm Edwards. He registered double-digit sack totals eight times in his career — including his final two healthy seasons in 2012 and ’13. Abraham was an unusual player as he combined speed and agility within a 6-foot-4, 270-pound frame. He wasn’t simply bull rushing offensive linemen. Abraham utilized an array of counters — including a wicked spin move — to gain access into opposing backfields.
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22. John Randle
A fearless pass rusher who played with an edge, Randle defied expectations at each stage of his NFL career. After going undrafted due to his relatively small stature for the position, the Vikings signed Randle in 1990. Randle played eleven years with the Vikings, notching seven Pro Bowls and six All-Pro nods. What Randle lacked in size he made up for in suddenness and burst. No offensive lineman could keep the shifty Randle in front of them, and he ended his career with 137.5 sacks.
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21. Robert Mathis
A year after the Colts drafted Dwight Freeney in the first round, it’s hard to imagine the team realized it would be getting another premier pass rusher all the way in the fifth round. Robert Mathis was selected 138th overall out of Alabama A&M in 2003. Mathis was more a rotational piece for his first few years, entering the game in obvious passing situations to give the Colts a different look. However, in Year 6, the league began to take notice of the Indy edge rusher. He would go on to make five Pro Bowls from ’08-13. A 32-year-old Mathis enjoyed a dominant 2013 campaign which saw him collect a league-high 19.5 sacks only to finish second in Defensive Player of the Year voting (Luke Kuechly).
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20. Cameron Jordan
After 12 seasons in the league, teams still have to account for Cameron Jordan whenever he’s on the field. Jordan has been a one-man wrecking crew for a Saints defense that was quietly among the league’s best groups over the last several seasons. Since 2012, Jordan has recorded 114.5 sacks — the most in the league over that span. As a traditional 4-3 end, Jordan has the ability to disrupt both the pass and run game. His ability to play both is what makes game-planning for the near 290-pound edge rusher so difficult. Jordan has made seven Pro Bowls and was an All-Pro First-Team selection in 2017.
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19. Alan Page
Vikings legend Alan Page made history in 1971 when he became the first primarily defensive player to win the NFL Most Valuable Player trophy. At that time, the only players to win MVP were quarterbacks and running backs. Page made his case undeniable by dominating the line of scrimmage all season long. In 15 seasons with the Vikings, Page helped the team capture four conference titles and a league championship. He was a member of the popular “Purple People Eaters” defensive line which was known for getting after opposing quarterbacks. Page ended his career with 148.5 sacks and a spot in the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
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18. Dwight Freeney
Dwight Freeney was a game-changer from the moment he stepped into the NFL. As a defensive end, Freeney’s speed was unmatched for the position. Using a sharp first-step, Freeney could blow by offensive linemen before they could even get their hands on him. He quickly became one of the league’s premier pass rushers, and collected 51.0 sacks over his first four seasons. In 2006, Freeney helped the Colts win Super Bowl XLI as he recovered a fumble in the win.
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17. Terrell Suggs
His teammates Ray Lewis and Ed Reed often drew more praise, but Terrell Suggs was an All-Pro talent in his own right. Suggs completed the first 16 years of his career with the Ravens, becoming a stalwart for a franchise which has become synonymous with the defensive side of the ball. Suggs won Defensive Rookie of the Year in 2003 after starting in just one game all year and finishing with 12.0 sacks. When his Baltimore run had ended, Suggs finished with 132.5 sacks, 33 forced fumbles, a Defensive Player of the Year trophy (2011) and a Super Bowl championship. He collected one more Super Bowl ring in his final year as a member of the 2019 Kansas City Chiefs.
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16. Jason Taylor
A Hall of Fame inductee in 2017, Jason Taylor was an elite athlete who utilized his length and burst to wreck havoc on opposing defenses. The Dolphin legend finished his career with 139.5 sacks over 15 seasons. His most prolific year came in 2002 when registered a league-high 18.5 sacks and finished second in Defensive Player of the Year voting. While some thought Taylor peaked in that season, he silenced all critics by putting up another monster year in ’06. Starring for a stacked Miami defense, Taylor collected 13.5 sacks, nine forced fumbles, 11 deflected passes, and scored twice on defense on his way to a Defensive Player of the Year trophy.
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15. Simeon Rice
Simeon Rice entered the league with a ton of hype, and surely lived up to it. In his rookie year, Rice tied the NFL record with 12.5 sacks by a first-year player. He was named a Pro Bowler on three occasions. In 2002, Rice was named a First-Team All-Pro after collecting 15.5 sacks. He later helped the Buccaneers win the Super Bowl that year when he collected two sacks in the championship game. Rice was an ironman (missed just two games in 10 years) who always seemed to play his best on the biggest stage.
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14. Jared Allen
A fourth-round pick who ended up being a four-time All-Pro. Allen entered the league with little fanfare, but gained some notoriety after finishing his rookie season with 9.0 sacks. Allen’s career didn’t really take off until he joined the Vikings in 2008. From ’08-13, Allen played in 96 games and registered 85.5 sacks. In 2011, Allen set a career-high with 22.0 sacks — just 0.5 short of Michael Strahan’s record — and won Defensive Player of the Year. His sudden burst off the line and endless motor made him impossibly difficult to contend with.
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13. Jack Youngblood
Pro Football Hall of Famer Jack Youngblood is among the greatest players to ever don a Rams uniform. Youngblood played the entirety of his 14-year career with the Rams, and was a consistent force on the defensive side. For six-straight seasons from 1974-79, Youngblood was named an All-Pro each year and collected 79.0 sacks in 88 games. He ended his career with 151.5 sacks and is a member of the NFL’s All-1970s Team.
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12. Von Miller
It was evident from Miller’s first season that he would eventually become one of the league’s premier defenders. The No. 2 overall pick in a stacked 2011 NFL Draft, Miller won Defensive Rookie of the Year and was a named a Second-Team All-Pro in his first year with the Broncos. He was regularly in the discussion as one of the top edge rushers, but cemented himself as an all-time great in Super Bowl 50 when he won MVP honors.
Had he retired following that game, Miller very likely would have already done enough to be a Hall of Famer. He’s played six more seasons since then (notching 63.5 additional sacks) and won another Super Bowl as a member of the Los Angeles Rams. When he does finally decide to hang up his cleats, Miller has a one-way ticket to Canton, Ohio.
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11. Derrick Thomas
Derrick Thomas cannot be overlooked when discussing the top defenders in league history. Playing the entirety of his career with the Kansas City Chiefs, Thomas was as prolific of a pass rusher as there was in the league. In just his second year as a pro, Thomas notched 20.0 sacks — just two shy of the all-time record. And, he did so while missing a game — a game in which the Chiefs (sans Thomas) sacked the opposing QB six times. In Week 10 of the 1990 season, Thomas set the record for the most sacks in a single game with 7.0 — a record which still stands to this day. After his career was tragically cut short due to a fatal car crash in 2000, Thomas was posthumously enshrined in the Hall of Fame.
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10. Michael Strahan
Strahan had a flexible frame which really did him wonders. He wasn’t a bulky player carrying extra weight. Instead, he was light on his feet, agile, and thus super explosive coming off the edge. His career started somewhat slow from a statistical standpoint. However, the light turned on in Year 5 of his tenure with the Giants. It was here where he notched double-digit sacks for the first time (14.0). That eventually led to two monstrous years where Strahan accrued 22.5 sacks and 18.5 sacks, respectively. Unsurprisingly, the seven-time Pro Bowler was named as the Defensive Player of Year during that iconic season. To this day, only Al Baker (23.0) has more sacks in a single season than Strahan.
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9. DeMarcus Ware
Micah Parsons might one day be the best defender in the history of the Cowboys’ franchise. That certainly would be a major feat. However, as of right now, the most prolific pass rusher emanating from Dallas happens to be DeMarcus Ware. Hailing from tiny Troy University, Ware made his impact known immediately — notching 8.0 sacks as a rookie. From there, he enjoyed a stretch in which he accrued at least 10.0 sacks in eight of his next nine seasons. The best for Ware came in 2008 where he set career-highs in sacks (20.0) and tackles-for-loss (27.0). In many ways, he helped in redefining the rush end/stand up OLB role we’ve grown so accustomed to seeing since he dominated in the 2000s.
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8. Aaron Donald
Aaron Donald doesn’t fall into the classic category of what many would consider to be a pass rusher. For one, the position is usually reserved for rangy 6-foot-4 to 6-foot-6 athletes who line up on the edges rather than up the middle. You know — guys with supreme length and jaw-dropping athleticism. Donald is a bowling ball of a man who’s even considered to be very undersized for his position as an interior defensive lineman.
Well…Donald shattered those preconceived notions — and more. There are some who think he’s the best defensive player to ever play the game. As an ‘undersized’ defensive tackle, Donald has demonstrated himself to be a disruptor of the absolute highest order. His hands are as legally violent as one can have them before it turns into assault. Donald’s motor never stops, and the low center of gravity with which he plays enables him to drive guards back into the pocket — namely because he’s equipped with ridiculous strength. As a defensive tackle (!), the three-time Defensive Player of the Year has registered 103.0 sacks and 24 forced fumbles in only 138 games.
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7. Julius Peppers
Peppers was a true physical specimen during his days in Carolina. Originally a basketball player for the North Carolina Tar Heels, he used his 6-foot-7 frame/correspondingly freakish wingspan to turn into one of the most dynamic defense ends in league history. Almost spider-like at the point of attack, Peppers was either making his way towards opposing quarterbacks or batting down passes at the line of scrimmage.
His background in basketball enabled Peppers to have terrific footwork. The short-area quickness was something Peppers prided himself on, and as a result he was often able to evade tackles before they tried latching onto him. For his career, Peppers accumulated nine Pro Bowl appearances and 159.5 sacks (in only 266 games played).
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6. J.J. Watt
J.J. Watt’s career was stalled somewhat by injury. He won’t ultimately finish within the top-20 all-time in career sacks. For that reason, some may question as to why he’d be listed among the top-10 in this list. Well, there’s an argument to be made that he had arguably the most dominant four-year run of any NFL player — regardless of position.
From 2012-15, Watt accrued a whopping 69.0 sacks. Unsurprisingly, he won the NFL Defensive Player of the Year award three separate times. Watt also was a five-time First-Team All-Pro selection. His combination of power and agility truly was striking before he became hindered by a plethora of injuries.
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5. Kevin Greene
A warrior. Greene was a player who exceeded his physical talents and instead became an all-time great based upon work ethic, toughness, and the will to win at all costs. It’s astonishing he began his college career as a walk-on punter at Auburn — and eventually became third on the NFL’s all-time sack list (160.0). As his career got underway, Greene flipped back-and-forth between the defensive end and outside linebacker spot. He was a three-time All-NFL First-Team selection, and a member of five Pro Bowl teams.
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4. Deacon Jones
Deacon Jones falls into the category of Jim Brown. Based upon the fact he wasn’t playing in what people consider to be the ‘modern day’ NFL, there are those who place asterisks on how good these two gentlemen would’ve been versus athletes today. Well, we’re comfortable with going out on a limb to say that Jones would’ve been just fine.
In his day, he was the meanest, toughest, most athletic defensive lineman of his generation. Over a 14-year span (unofficially), it was said he racked up 173.5 sacks — which would rank him third all-time. He wouldn’t just look to sack the opposing quarterback…he’d look to inflict major physical pain to the player.
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3. Bruce Smith
Smith holds the distinction as the NFL’s all-time leader in career sacks. Throughout his 19-year career, Smith was simply destined to smash the prior record. He was the No. 1 Overall pick coming out of Virginia Tech, and immediately took to life in the NFL. Smith accrued 6.5 sacks as a rookie — and that number jumped to 15.0 as a second-year player.
Smith went on a run which included 13 years with at least 10.0 sacks (the most coming in 1990 with 19.0 sacks). While he wasn’t the biggest defensive end, Smith was a freak athlete. He was also immensely strong, which led to him shucking offensive tackles as if they were practice dummies. By the end of his career, Smith had made 11 Pro Bowls, 10 All-NFL teams, and won Defensive Player of the Year on two separate occasions.
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2. Reggie White
Second all-time with 198.0 sacks, White really was a dream if you were to construct the ideal defensive lineman. The Tennessee native was a fantastic athlete at 6-foot-5 — possessing the ability to play both inside and outside in a pinch. Primarily operating as a defensive end, he was the type of talent that opposing teams would have to scheme their offense around. White was that dominant a player up front.
He had unheard of lateral quickness for a man north of 300 pounds. His immense wingspan enabled him to get a great initial punch on offensive tackles. From there, his pedigree as a technician simply made him unblockable.
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1. Lawrence Taylor
The most feared player in the history of the NFL. The best defensive player in the history of the NFL. Arguably the most dominant player in the history of professional football. L.T. was a transcendent athlete when starring for over 10 years with the New York ‘football’ Giants. Positioned at outside linebacker, he single-handedly changed the way the position was played.
Normally, the outside linebacker would be stationed as a stay-at-home player — looking to help in both coverage and run support. Taylor wrecked opposing offenses with his pass-rushing ability off the edge. He was far took quick for linemen, and his natural power made the proposition of chipping him at the line of scrimmage with a tight end utterly foolish. As of 2023, he ranks No. 14 all-time in sacks (132.5).
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50 Greatest Quarterbacks in NFL History
50. Drew Bledsoe
Unfortunately for Drew Bledsoe, his career may be remembered most for losing his job to a man named Tom Brady. Before an injury allowed Brady to secure the job from Bledsoe, the talented quarterback started 123 games for the Patriots between 1993-2001.
Bledsoe was a three-time Pro Bowler with the Pats — twice leading the league in completions (’94, ’97). The Washington native would go on to earn a fourth Pro Bowl bid while with the Buffalo Bills before ultimately finishing his playing career with the Cowboys.
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49. Doug Williams
After spending the first five seasons of his career with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Doug Williams joined the Washington Redskins and promptly made NFL history. In 1987, Williams made two regular season starts — and lost both. Despite the losses, Williams was given the offensive reigns when the Redskins entered the playoffs.
Williams rewarded coach Joe Gibbs’ faith and led Washington to a 42-10 victory over John Elway and the Denver Broncos in Super Bowl XXII. Williams finished the contest 18-of-29 for 340 yards and four scores — making history as the first African-American starting quarterback to win a Super Bowl.
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48. Dave Krieg
Before Russell Wilson arrived on the scene, Dave Krieg was arguably the franchise’s premier quarterback. From 1980-91, Krieg went 70-49 in 119 starts and earned three Pro Bowl nods. At the conclusion of a long 19-year career, Krieg had a record of 98-77 and tossed 261 touchdown passes versus 199 interceptions.
He may never have been the best quarterback in the league, but Krieg did enough to warrant the franchise adding him to its Ring of Honor.
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47. Bert Jones
Johnny Unitas, Peyton Manning, Andrew Luck…Bert Jones? When the then-Baltimore Colts selected Jones with the No. 2 overall pick in 1973, the team believed they had found their next great quarterback to follow in Unitas’ footsteps. While that was never going to go as planned, Jones did have a great three-year stretch in the mid-70’s.
From 1975-77, Jones went 31-11 as a starter, completing 58.7 percent of his passes for 8,273 yards and 59 touchdowns. He was deemed the NFL MVP in 1976 and was selected to the Second-Team All-Pro squad the following year.
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46. Bob Griese
Two-time Super Bowl champ, two-time All-Pro, eight-time Pro Bowler — how could Bob Griese not make this list? Despite making two Pro Bowl’s through his first three seasons, Griese’s Dolphins struggled to a 10-20-2 record in his first 32 starts.
However, over the next five years, Griese flipped the switch. The quarterback led Miami to a 46-11-1 mark, was elected to four more Pro Bowl’s and won two Super Bowls. While his overall numbers weren’t great, there is no denying a quarterback who won 92-of-151 career starts.
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45. Ken Stabler
Let’s get this out of the way first — Ken Stabler had an electric mustache and a glorious mop of hair. The lefty from Alabama also had a rather nice career. Famous for his time with the Raiders, Stabler led Oakland to the playoffs six times. In 1976, Stabler led his squad to a Super Bowl victory over the Minnesota Vikings.
In addition to the win, Stabler led the NFL in passing touchdowns and passer rating in ’76 — two years removed from winning the MVP and leading the league in passing TDs for the first time. Stabler’s accomplishments led to his Hall of Fame induction in 2016.
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44. Joe Theismann
Joe Theismann enjoyed a very nice career before a devastating tackle by Lawrence Taylor permanently sent him to the sidelines. A Super Bowl champion in 1982 and MVP in ’83, Theismann suffered a compound fracture of the tibia and fibula in his right leg on that fateful play. Before the injury, Theismann had done it all.
After leading Washington to glory in ’82, he quarterbacked the ‘Skins to a 14-2 record the following year. For his career, Theismann went 77-47 and threw for over 25,000 yards.
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43. Roman Gabriel
Let’s take a moment to soak in the image above. Look how beautiful — and simple — Roman Gabriel’s uniform is (unlike the hideous logo the Rams are trotting out in 2020). Now that that is out of the way, let’s get into Gabriel the player. Spending most of his career with the Rams, Gabriel was elected to four Pro Bowl’s, led the league in passing touchdowns on two occasions (1969, ’73), passing yards in ’73, and took home the ’69 MVP.
During his MVP campaign, Gabriel threw for 2,549 yards and tossed 24 TDs and just seven interceptions. From 1967-69, the Ram great led the franchise to a 32-7-3 mark.
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42. Phil Simms
A majority of the younger football audience may recognize Phil Simms as ‘that guy on TV’. But long before Simms became a mainstay on network television, the Kentucky native led the New York Giants to a Super Bowl victory in 1986. In three games that postseason Simms completed 65.5 percent of his passes for 494 yards and eight touchdowns.
The two-time champ started eight games between 1991-92, but then had a triumphant comeback in ’93 — at 38 years old, Simms led the Giants to an 11-5 record and a Wild Card victory over the Vikings.
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41. Mark Brunell
Originally drafted by the Green Bay Packers in 1993, Mark Brunell would later become the Jacksonville Jaguars’ inaugural quarterback when the team entered the NFL in 1995. Brunell would lead Jacksonville to the postseason four times — reaching the Conference Championship twice. To this day, Brunell is Jacksonville’s all-time leading passer with 25,698 yards and 144 touchdowns.
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40. Tony Romo
Before his blossoming career in broadcasting began, Tony Romo was a highly-efficient quarterback for nearly a decade. Drafted in 2004, Romo spent two years on Dallas’ bench before taking over as the starting QB. Romo started 10 games in ’06 and earned his first Pro Bowl nod. From ’07-14, Romo threw 223 TD passes to just 97 INT’s.
As a 34-year-old, No. 9 led the NFL in completion percentage (69.9), yards per attempt (8.5), passer rating (113.2) and QBR (79.7). Romo wasn’t able to win the biggest games, but there is no denying his talent.
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39. Rich Gannon
A fourth-round pick out of Delaware, Rich Gannon exceeded all expectations in the NFL. The first 11 years of Gannon’s career were mediocre. Splitting time between Minnesota, Washington and Kansas City, Gannon made 58 starts and threw 66 touchdown passes. However, upon joining the Raiders in 1999, Gannon turned into a stud.
Gannon went on a four-year tear in Oakland — accumulating 15,787 yards and 105 TD’s. Gannon was named MVP in ’02, thanks to 4,689 passing yards and an 11-5 record. Gannon would go on to lead the Raiders to the Super Bowl in what turned out to be his last healthy season as a pro.
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38. Cam Newton
Cam Newton is one of the most intimidating quarterbacks of all-time, hands down. Although Newton’s prowess through the air has been questioned at times throughout his career, you can’t argue with the results. Newton’s imposing 6-foot-5, 245 lb frame has tormented defenses since his debut in 2011. In ’15, Newton led the Panthers to a 15-1 regular season and a Super Bowl appearance.
That season, ‘Superman’ tossed 35 TD passes and netted 3,837 yards in the air — in addition to rushing for 636 yards and 10 scores. Through the ’22 season, Newton has rushed for 5,628 yards and 75 touchdowns. Newton has changed the perception of what a quarterback can be.
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37. Randall Cunningham
It is truly remarkable Randall Cunningham lasted 16 years in the NFL. Drafted by the Eagles in 1985, Cunningham served as a punching bag for the first six years of his career. In his second year, the four-time Pro Bowler was sacked 72 times — despite making only five starts.
Over the next four years, Cunningham would lead Philadelphia to a 38-22 record. In lieu of being sacked 51 times per season, Cunningham connected on 98 TD passes and rushed for 18 more. One of the first true dual-threat QB’s, Cunningham rushed for nearly 2,700 yards between ’87-90.
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36. Carson Palmer
After winning the Heisman Trophy following his senior year at USC, Carson Palmer was selected No. 1 overall in the 2002 NFL Draft. Almost immediately upon his arrival in Cincinnati, Palmer appeared destined for a great career. In Year 2, Palmer led the NFL with 32 TD’s and a 67.8 completion percentage.
Unfortunately for Palmer and the Bengals, Palmer suffered a torn ACL and MCL in Cincy’s playoff game against the Steelers. It took Palmer a few years to regain his form, but boy did he ever. In 2015, at the age of 36, Palmer threw for 4,671 yards and 35 TD’s for the 13-3 Arizona Cardinals. In total, Palmer threw for over 46,000 yards and 294 touchdowns.
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35. Philip Rivers
Upon joining the then-San Diego Chargers, Philip Rivers spent two years on the bench watching some guy named Drew Brees. Then, in ’06, Rivers was named the starting QB and promptly led the Bolts to a 14-2 regular season. Rivers spent the first 16 years of his career with the Chargers…
…but at the age of 39 joined the Indianapolis Colts for one final season. Rivers hung up his cleats with 63,440 passing yards, 421 touchdown passes, and eight Pro Bowl nods to his name. The only thing missing from Rivers’ résumé is a Super Bowl win.
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34. Boomer Esiason
Younger football fans may only know Boomer Esiason as the guy who talks football on their television. That is unfortunate. Long before he became a color commentator, Esiason was lighting up the NFL. A four-time Pro Bowler, Esiason won the MVP in 1988 while suiting up for the Bengals.
The MVP led Cincinnati to the Super Bowl in ’88, only to fall just short against Joe Montana and the 49ers.
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33. Matt Ryan
Still slinging the ball in 2023, Matt Ryan has enjoyed a better career than some may realize. In his first five seasons, Ryan led the Falcons to a 56-22 record. In that span, Ryan made two Pro Bowls and threw 127 TD’s. In ’16, Matty Ice reached a new level.
In earning the MVP, Ryan threw for 4,944 yards, 38 TDs and just seven INTs. If he and the Falcons were able to hold on to their 28-3 lead in the Super Bowl, Ryan’s legacy would be a lot stronger.
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32. Steve McNair
Steve McNair parlayed a historic collegiate career at Alcorn State into becoming the No. 3 overall pick in the 1995 NFL Draft. With the Titans, McNair quickly established himself as one of the most dangerous quarterbacks in the game. In 1997, his first year as the starting QB, McNair rushed for 674 yards and eight touchdowns.
McNair would lead the Titans to four playoff appearances — including a run to the Super Bowl in 1999, in which the Titans came a yard short of forcing overtime. In ’03, McNair and Peyton Manning were named co-MVPs. McNair’s achievement was amplified by the fact that he became the youngest player in NFL history to pass for 20,000 yards (22,637) and rush for 3,000 (3,172).
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31. Y.A. Tittle
Tittle’s Hall of Fame career began with the Baltimore Colts of the soon-to-be defunct All-America Football Conference. After three seasons with Baltimore, Tittle was drafted by the San Francisco 49ers in 1951. Tittle spent 10 years in San Francisco, earning Pro Bowl honors four times and at one time sharing a backfield with three future Hall of Famers.
Despite playing with one of the most decorated backfield of all-time, Tittle became a legend with his next team, the New York Giants. In 1961, the Giants acquired Tittle from the 49ers in exchange for a second-year guard. In his first three seasons in New York, Tittle led the Giants to the NFL Championship. After being demolished 37-0 by the Green Bay Packers in 1961, Tittle threw 33 touchdowns in 1962 en route to another meeting with the Packers. New year, same result. The Packers won 16-7.
Tittle’s penultimate season of his career, 1963, was his best. He threw for a single-season record of 36 touchdowns while earning league MVP honors. However, Tittle produced his worst performance of the year in the Championship, throwing five interceptions on a bum knee, resulting in a 14-10 loss to the Chicago Bears. While Tittle was never able to capture a championship victory, he was elected to the Hall of Fame in 1971.
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30. Sid Luckman
He may have played his last game in 1950, but Sid Luckman was a true beast. Spending the entirety of his career with the Bears, Luckman helped bring four NFL titles to Chicago. In totality, Luckman appeared in five championship games. In 1943, Luckman tossed 28 TD passes and averaged an astounding 11 yards per attempt, and 20 yards per completion.
That same year, Luckman found the end zone on an NFL-record 13.9 percent of his pass attempts. Five-time All-Pro, four-time NFL champion, Hall of Fame. Luckman may be the best quarterback you’ve never heard of.
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29. Ken Anderson
Seven years before Boomer Esiason won MVP honors and led the Bengals to a Super Bowl showdown against the 49ers, Ken Anderson accomplished the exact feat. A third-round pick in 1971, Anderson became Cincinnati’s starting QB in just his second year. Shortly after, Anderson found himself leading the league in passing yards (’74, ’75) and completion percentage (’74).
Anderson’s game peaked in ’81 when he led the Bengals to a 12-4 record and a narrow defeat in Super Bowl XVI. Still, Anderson’s 3,754 passing yards and 29 TD’s that year led to his lone MVP.
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28. Len Dawson
Perhaps the best quarterback to play in the AFL, Len Dawson was an absolute star. After throwing a total of 45 passes through his first five years in football, Dawson exploded in 1962 with the Dallas Texans. In addition to leading the AFL in completion percentage (61.0) and TD’s (29), Dawson led the Texans to the AFL title — his first of three.
From ’62-69, Dawson led the league in completion percentage seven times and TD’s four times. Dawson then capped his career with a Super Bowl MVP effort in Super Bowl IV.
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27. Donovan McNabb
Had a few games gone differently during McNabb’s career, there is a good chance he’d be pushing the top-20 of this list. In his first year as Philadelphia’s starting quarterback, McNabb finished second in MVP voting, leading the Eagles to the playoffs before being sent home by the Giants. The following year, McNabb led the Eagles to their first NFC Championship game since 1980.
From ’01-04, the McNabb-led Eagles reached the NFC Championship Game four consecutive years, ultimately falling short in their first three attempts. ’04 finally resulted in the breakthrough the Eagles were waiting for, as McNabb torched the competition on the way to Super Bowl XXXIX.
McNabb threw for 31 TD’s and had only eight INT’s during the regular season, becoming the first NFL quarterback to throw for more than 30 TD’s with less than 10 INT’s in a season. His talented Eagles squad didn’t win a championship, but advancing to four consecutive NFC Championships is no small feat. At the end of the day, McNabb should find himself in the Hall of Fame.
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26. Eli Manning
The lesser of the Manning brothers, Eli has still put himself in position to one day enter the Hall of Fame. There is a case to be made that without the two Super Bowl victories, Eli would be seen as a slightly above-average quarterback, but you can’t knock his durability and knack for clutch plays.
In Manning’s two Super Bowl appearances, he led last-minute game-winning drives against the New England Patriots. The drives will ultimately be remembered by the two miraculous catches, but Manning was able to keep plays alive and make all the necessary throws to win.
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25. Kurt Warner
One day, Kurt Warner’s story will likely be shared on the big screen. Undrafted out of Northern Iowa, Warner was working at a grocery store before the St. Louis Rams came calling. A 28-year-old, Warner left the store behind and led the Rams to a Super Bowl victory in 1999 — where he also earned Super Bowl MVP honors.
In the process, Warner won the MVP while leading the NFL in completion percentage (65.1) and TDs (41). In 2001, Warner won his second MVP and came within seconds of a second championship. At 37, Warner led the Arizona Cardinals to the Super Bowl — a narrow loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers.
One of the greatest postseason performers of all-time, Warner also has the 13th highest career passer rating and fifth-highest career completion percentage in NFL history. Quite the career, Kurt.
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24. Russell Wilson
Through 2022, Russell Wilson has been elected to the Pro Bowl in nine out of his ten professional campaigns. While skeptics would point to Wilson benefiting from a tremendous defense early on, there is no ignoring how special of a quarterback he currently is. A Super Bowl champion in ’13, Wilson was one ill-advised playcall/throw away from back-to-back titles. If being one of the best passers in the game wasn’t enough, Wilson is also one of the elite running QBs in today’s game. Perhaps his most impressive stat, Wilson has won at least nine games in all but two of his years in the league.
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23. Joe Namath
“Broadway Joe” is easily one of the most recognizable players in the history of football. Known for his charisma, bold proclamations and his victory guarantee in Super Bowl III, Namath’s numbers don’t tell the whole story about his greatness.
Following a great collegiate career at Alabama, Namath led the Jets to an AFL Championship in 1968. The next year, shortly before the AFL/NFL merger, Namath made his famous guarantee. In 1969, Namath and the Jets, from the AFL, defeated Don Shula’s Baltimore Colts, from the NFL, in Super Bowl III.
While injuries played a big part in limiting the numbers Namath was able to achieve, there is no debating his legacy as one of the most gifted quarterbacks the sport has seen. The Jets’ Super Bowl III victory remains the franchise’s only Super Bowl title.
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22. Dan Fouts
Before settling into the broadcast booth, Fouts was one of the most prolific passers in NFL history. Fouts became just the third player ever to pass for more than 40,000 yards in a career — leading the league in passing each year from ’79-82, which included a then single-season passing record with 4,802 yards during the ’81 season.
Although the Chargers never reached the Super Bowl with Fouts under center, he did lead them to two AFC Championship Games. Fouts had his #14 retired by the Chargers in 1988, and was enshrined in Canton as a part of the Class of 1993.
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21. Ben Roethlisberger
In one of the most confusing career arcs in NFL history, Ben Roethlisberger has gone from phenomenal to terrible and then back to phenomenal over the course of his 18 seasons. With two Super Bowl titles under his belt, Roethlisberger leaves the game a true Pittsburgh legend.
One of the best quarterbacks at extending plays and improvising in NFL history, Roethlisberger’s deceptive agility and incredible arm strength ensure a spot in Canton.
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20. Otto Graham
Dominating during an era that is often forgotten in the confines of NFL history, Otto Graham and the Cleveland Browns couldn’t be stopped from 1946-55. Reaching the league championship every year in that span, Graham was the biggest reason why.
He holds the record for highest win percentage of any starting quarterback in NFL history (0.814), with Cleveland finishing 114-20-4 in games started by Graham. As an efficient passer and the ultimate winner, Graham would have gained even more notoriety had he played during the Super Bowl era.
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19. Sammy Baugh
Sammy Baugh’s passing numbers certainly won’t blow anyone away, but it was his unmatched versatility that makes him worthy of this ranking. In addition to playing quarterback, Baugh also played defensive back and punted for the Washington Redskins. In 1943, Baugh led the league in passing, punting and interceptions (as a defensive back) – a feat that will never be repeated.
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18. Bart Starr
The winning quarterback of the first two Super Bowls in NFL history, Bart Starr was named the Most Valuable Player of both games. He owns the highest playoff passer rating (104.8) of all-time and finished his career 9-1 in the postseason.
Playing in the run-first era certainly deflated Starr’s stats, but there’s no denying his place as one of the best and winningest quarterbacks in NFL history.
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17. Fran Tarkenton
Fran Tarkenton played 18 seasons for the Minnesota Vikings and New York Giants, finishing as one of the best dual-threat quarterbacks in NFL history. When he retired in 1978, he was the all-time leader in pass attempts, completions, passing yards, passing touchdowns, rushing yards by a quarterback and wins by a starting quarterback.
Although Tarkenton was never able to bring a Super Bowl title to either franchise he played for, his individual excellence made him a no-brainer to be inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1986.
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16. Terry Bradshaw
Contrary to the next player on this list, Terry Bradshaw cracks the top-15 for his ability to win on the NFL’s biggest stage. Bradshaw was far from a prolific passer during the days of Pittsburgh’s smash-mouth brand of football (only threw for more than 3,000 yards in a season twice), but he finished a perfect 4-0 in games with the Lombardi Trophy on the line.
Despite the uninspiring touchdown-to-interception ratio (212:210) and a 51.9 percent completion percentage, Bradshaw’s induction into the Hall of Fame in 1989 is well deserved.
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15. Jim Kelly
While Jim Kelly will (unfairly) best be remembered for his 0-4 record in Super Bowls with the Buffalo Bills, Kelly was one of the premier quarterbacks during his 11-year career. Kelly teamed with Andre Reed to form one of the most potent quarterback-wide receiver duos in NFL history and finished with a 101-59 record in the regular season. In 2002, his first year of eligibility, Kelly was inducted into the Hall of Fame.
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14. Roger Staubach
After winning the Heisman Trophy following his junior season at Navy, Staubach’s NFL career was delayed while he served his four-year military commitment. First starting a game at 29, Staubach went on to lead the Cowboys to two Super Bowl victories in five appearances from 1970-78.
‘Captain America’ captured the ’71 MVP and Super Bowl VI MVP, and is a member of both the College Football Hall of Fame and Pro Football Hall of Fame.
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13. Warren Moon
The first undrafted quarterback to make the Hall of Fame, Moon had an illustrious career in both the NFL and CFL. After winning five Grey Cups in the CFL, Moon started a Hall of Fame career in the NFL with the Houston Oilers. Following nine Pro Bowl appearances, Moon retired finishing in the top-five in passing yards, TD’s, attempts, and completions.
If Moon’s statistics from the CFL and NFL were combined, his numbers would be almost unmatched in the history of football. In 2006, Moon became the first African American quarterback to be enshrined in Canton.
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12. Troy Aikman
The No. 1 pick out of UCLA in 1989, Aikman quarterbacked the great Dallas dynasty of the early 90s. Aikman led the Cowboys to a 32-17 trouncing of the Buffalo Bills in Super Bowl XXVII, completing 22-of-30 passes for 273 yards and four TDs. Aikman then led the Cowboys to two more Super Bowls in the next three years, capped off by a 27-17 victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers in Super Bowl XXX.
Aikman amassed over 32,000 yards and 165 TDs in 12 seasons, ending his career with a 3-0 record in the Super Bowl. Unfortunately for Aikman, his Hall of Fame career was cut short in 2001 following his tenth concussion.
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11. Steve Young
Known as one of the greatest dual-threat quarterbacks in NFL history, Steve Young had the nearly impossible task of replacing Joe Montana in San Francisco. However, the BYU alum filled the void admirably, winning two MVP awards and a Super Bowl MVP during his eight years as the franchise’s leader.
In addition to his prowess as a passer, Young sits third all-time among quarterbacks with 4,239 career rushing yards, but still falls just short of cracking the top-10 on this list.
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10. Johnny Unitas
Once the gold standard for NFL quarterbacks, ‘The Golden Arm’ was a 3-time MVP, 3-time NFL champion, and the winning quarterback of Super Bowl V. Unitas set the record for most consecutive games with a touchdown pass (47) between 1956-60 — a mark that stood until Drew Brees surpassed the record in 2012.
Unitas still ranks 10th all-time with 290 touchdown passes. His performance in the two-minute drill garnered him the nickname ‘Mr. Clutch,’ and he was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1979.
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9. Drew Brees
Playing in the same era alongside Tom Brady and Peyton Manning, Brees has gone underappreciated throughout his brilliant career. Brees is one of only five quarterbacks to throw for at least 5,000 passing yards in a season, and he has accomplished the feat five times (no other quarterback has done it more than once).
Despite being short for the position, Brees’ combination of impeccable footwork and precision makes him a surefire Hall of Famer. In addition to 13 Pro Bowl nods and a Super Bowl ring, Brees currently stands as the second all-time leader in passing yards and passing touchdowns.
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8. Patrick Mahomes
Having just turned 27 and having just completed his fifth year as a full-time starter, it is hard to determine Mahomes’ place in history. Still, even after just 80 regular season starts, it is reasonable to deduce that Mahomes is one of the best quarterbacks to play in the NFL.
As a first-year starter in 2018, Mahomes threw for 5,097 yards and 50 touchdowns — resulting in an MVP victory. While Mahomes’ second season was a bit more reserved, the Kansas City gunslinger still put up incredible numbers and led the Chiefs to a Super Bowl victory. In 2023, the Chiefs reached the Super Bowl for the third time in four years. Ten years from now, Mahomes may be approaching the top-5.
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7. Brett Favre
The ultimate gunslinger, Favre holds NFL records for most pass completions, attempts, interceptions, starts, and wins. The only quarterback to win three consecutive MVPs, Favre is one of only two quarterbacks to win a playoff game over the age of 40.
A Super Bowl champion, Favre ranks fourth all-time with 508 TD passes. For all of the personal accolades, Favre’s most impressive achievement might be his durability, as seen during his NFL-record 321 consecutive starts.
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6. Dan Marino
The greatest quarterback to never win a Super Bowl, Marino held the record for most touchdown passes (420) and most career completions (4,967) when he retired. In Marino’s 1984 MVP season, the Dolphins made their only Super Bowl appearance under Marino, losing to the Joe Montana-led 49ers 38-16.
During his MVP season, the nine-time Pro Bowler became the first quarterback to throw for over 5,000 yards in a single season, as well as the first to surpass 40 touchdown passes in a season. To go along with his rocket arm, Marino arguably possessed the quickest release the league has ever seen.
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5. Aaron Rodgers
Aaron Rodgers’ nimbleness in the pocket, unbelievable precision, and rocket arm might make him the most talented quarterback the NFL has ever seen. However, that talent hasn’t necessarily translated into postseason success. At 39, Rodgers should have plenty of football still left in him.
Rodgers’ legacy will be tied directly to his postseason success (or lack thereof) over the next 2-4 years. Rodgers is already a lock for the Hall of Fame, but if he is to enter the greatest of all-time discussion, he and the Packers need to add another Super Bowl to their respective trophy cases. Four MVPs don’t outweigh one title.
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4. Peyton Manning
Arguably the greatest regular season quarterback ever, Manning cemented his place among the game’s elite by capturing his second Super Bowl ring in Super Bowl 50. Manning retired a five-time MVP, holding the NFL records for most touchdowns (539) and passing yards (71,940) — which have since been eclipsed. Manning came off serious neck surgery to win NFL Comeback Player of the Year in 2012 with the Denver Broncos.
A 14-time Pro Bowl selection, Manning’s one knock has always been his play in the postseason. And although his performance in Super Bowl 50 was rather underwhelming, the second ring will go a long way in helping elevate his legacy.
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3. John Elway
The storybook ending to a Hall of Fame career, Elway capped his legacy by winning back-to-back Super Bowls — defeating the Packers and Falcons. The ultimate dual-threat, Elway rushed for four touchdowns in his Super Bowl appearances. Tom Brady is the only quarterback to best Elway’s five Super Bowl appearances, and he ranks among the top five in the four major passing categories (completions, attempts, yards, touchdowns).
His 14 playoff wins stand amongst the best in the game, and his all-time winning percentage of .641 shows his greatness. Elway has followed his Hall of Fame career by leading the Broncos to four division titles, two AFC Championships and a Super Bowl title as Executive VP/GM of the Broncos.
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2. Joe Montana
Four Super Bowl appearances, four victories, three MVPs and 11 touchdown passes — Montana’s performances in the Super Bowl are nothing short of spectacular. And with these victories coming against Dan Marino and John Elway, the Super Bowls look even better.
The master of the West Coast offense is arguably the most clutch player in NFL history. Montana holds Super Bowl records for most passes without an interception (122 in four games) and a quarterback rating of 127.8.
Montana led his teams to 31 come-from-behind victories in his career, including all-time moments such as “The Catch” and his touchdown pass in the closing moments of Super Bowl XXIII. And while he safely held the title of G.O.A.T for two decades, the next player’s excellence leaves Montana at No. 2.
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1. Tom Brady
Two miraculous plays away from being 9-1 in Super Bowls, Tom Brady’s case as the greatest quarterback of all-time is strong. With more Super Bowl appearances (10) and playoff victories than any quarterback in NFL history, Brady’s ability to win without dominant supporting casts is nothing short of incredible.
Now a seven-time Super Bowl champion, five-time Super Bowl MVP and three-time NFL MVP, at 45 years old, the former Michigan Wolverine shows minimal signs of slowing down. With legendary performances in countless high-pressured games — none better than his masterful comeback performance against the Falcons in Super Bowl LI — Brady has safely asserted himself as the greatest quarterback of all-time.
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