The Top 10 Quarterbacks of All Time represent a unique group of football players who have defined excellence and innovation on the field.
From their remarkable achievements to game-changing plays, these quarterbacks have set records, led historic comebacks, and left legacies that continue to inspire fans and players alike.
Whether through precision passing, unmatched leadership, or clutch performances under pressure, each quarterback on this list has contributed something exceptional to the NFL.
In this article, we dive deep into the accomplishments, stats, and unique qualities that make these players the Top 10 Quarterbacks of All Time.
10. Aaron Rodgers – The Precision Thrower
- Passing Yards: 59,055
- Touchdowns: 475
- MVP Awards: 4
- Super Bowl Wins: 1
- Best TD-to-Interception Ratio in NFL history
- Known for pinpoint accuracy and quick release
- Multiple seasons with a passer rating over 100
Aaron Rodgers, quarterback for the Green Bay Packers, is known for his unique blend of pinpoint accuracy, quick release, and mobility within the pocket.
He’s one of the most efficient quarterbacks in NFL history, boasting the best touchdown-to-interception ratio of any starting QB.
Winning the MVP award four times, Rodgers has mastered the art of threading passes through tight windows, often creating jaw-dropping plays in high-stakes moments.
His ability to read defenses and make split-second decisions is a testament to his preparation and intelligence, firmly establishing him among the Top 10 Quarterbacks of All Time.
9. Steve Young – Left-Handed Brilliance
- Passing Yards: 33,124
- Touchdowns: 232
- Rushing Touchdowns: 43 (One of the highest among QBs)
- MVP Awards: 2
- Super Bowl Wins: 3 (1 as a starter)
- First left-handed quarterback to win Super Bowl MVP
- Known for dual-threat capabilities and exceptional mobility
Steve Young’s career with the San Francisco 49ers was marked by an impressive combination of rushing prowess and precise passing, especially as a left-handed quarterback—a rarity in the NFL.
Young was instrumental in leading the 49ers to a Super Bowl victory and earned himself the Super Bowl MVP title.
His mobility and ability to break free from defenders made him an early example of a true dual-threat quarterback.
Young’s 96.8 career passer rating and 43 rushing touchdowns showcased his versatility, making him one of the Top 10 Quarterbacks of All Time.
8. Roger Staubach – The Original Dual-Threat QB
- Passing Yards: 22,700
- Touchdowns: 153
- Super Bowl Wins: 2
- Nickname: “Captain Comeback” for clutch performances
- Known for mobility and accuracy in the 1970s
- Led 14 game-winning drives in the fourth quarter
Roger Staubach, legendary quarterback for the Dallas Cowboys, was known for his fearless, clutch performances in the most intense moments of the game.
Nicknamed “Captain Comeback,” Staubach helped the Cowboys secure two Super Bowl titles and led numerous game-winning drives throughout his career.
His mobility and accuracy redefined quarterback expectations in the 1970s, showcasing how athleticism could complement passing skill.
Staubach’s impact on the game and his leadership under pressure remain timeless, securing him a lasting place among the Top 10 Quarterbacks of All Time.
7. Dan Marino – The Arm That Changed the Game
- Passing Yards: 61,361
- Touchdowns: 420
- MVP Awards: 1
- Most Pro Bowl selections for a QB without a Super Bowl win
- Set a record with 5,084 passing yards in 1984 season
- Known for strong arm and quick release
Dan Marino’s impact on the NFL went far beyond his stats; he transformed the quarterback position by showing that a strong arm and quick release could dominate defenses.
Playing for the Miami Dolphins, Marino set records with his powerful throws, including a 5,084-yard season in 1984.
Though he never won a Super Bowl, Marino’s style and influence on the passing game were undeniable, inspiring future quarterbacks to air it out.
His legacy as one of the most skilled and impactful quarterbacks in NFL history cements his place in the Top 10 Quarterbacks of All Time.
6. Drew Brees – The Precision Passer
- Passing Yards: 80,358 (Second-most in NFL history)
- Touchdowns: 571
- Completion Percentage: 67.7% (Highest in NFL history)
- Super Bowl Wins: 1
- Record 5 seasons with 5,000+ passing yards
- Known for accuracy and quick decision-making
Drew Brees, known for his time with the New Orleans Saints, redefined accuracy and resilience at the quarterback position.
Despite being considered undersized at 6 feet, Brees led the NFL in passing yards and completion percentage multiple times, achieving over 80,000 passing yards in his career.
His 67.7% career completion rate is a testament to his attention to detail and discipline, making him one of the most reliable quarterbacks ever.
Brees’ influence on the game, especially for shorter quarterbacks, is undeniable, earning him a place among the Top 10 Quarterbacks of All Time.
5. Brett Favre – The Gunslinger
- Passing Yards: 71,838
- Touchdowns: 508
- MVP Awards: 3
- Super Bowl Wins: 1
- Most consecutive starts for any NFL player (297)
- Known for gunslinger mentality and resilience
Brett Favre, often dubbed the NFL’s “Iron Man,” was known for his longevity, grit, and undeniable talent.
Playing primarily for the Green Bay Packers, Favre started an incredible 297 consecutive games, setting a record that is unlikely to be broken.
Favre’s gunslinger mentality led him to some of the most memorable plays in NFL history, with 508 career touchdowns and countless fourth-quarter comebacks.
His fearless approach and passion for the game made him a fan favorite and solidified his legacy as one of the Top 10 Quarterbacks of All Time.
4. Johnny Unitas – The Golden Arm Pioneer
- Passing Yards: 40,239
- Touchdowns: 290
- MVP Awards: 3
- Super Bowl Wins: 1
- Set record for most consecutive games with a touchdown pass (47)
- Known for innovation in the modern passing game
Johnny Unitas, known as “The Golden Arm,” set the standard for what a modern quarterback could achieve.
Playing for the Baltimore Colts, Unitas brought a level of innovation and skill that had rarely been seen before.
He held the record for consecutive games with a touchdown pass (47) for over five decades, a testament to his consistency and skill.
Unitas’ poise and talent for long, accurate passes during critical moments made him a legend and a pioneer, securing him a place in the Top 10 Quarterbacks of All Time.
3. Peyton Manning – The Field General
- Passing Yards: 71,940
- Touchdowns: 539
- MVP Awards: 5 (Most in NFL history)
- Super Bowl Wins: 2
- Known for play-calling skills and reading defenses
- Set single-season touchdown record (55) in 2013
Peyton Manning, a cerebral player known for his meticulous preparation and high football IQ, changed how quarterbacks operate at the line of scrimmage.
Manning’s ability to read defenses and adjust plays was unparalleled, earning him five MVP awards—the most in NFL history.
He led the Indianapolis Colts and Denver Broncos to Super Bowl victories, and his 71,940 career passing yards showcase his productivity and consistency.
Manning’s influence on the game and his ability to dissect defenses make him an essential figure among the Top 10 Quarterbacks of All Time.
2. Joe Montana – The Original Comeback King
- Passing Yards: 40,551
- Touchdowns: 273
- Super Bowl Wins: 4
- Super Bowl MVP Awards: 3
- Perfect Super Bowl record (4-0) with zero interceptions
- Known for calm, clutch performances under pressure
Joe Montana, famously known as “Joe Cool,” defined composure and excellence under pressure.
Leading the San Francisco 49ers to four Super Bowl titles, Montana went undefeated in Super Bowls, showcasing his clutch ability when it mattered most.
His 11 touchdown passes and zero interceptions in Super Bowl play are a testament to his precision and calm demeanor.
Montana’s legacy as a winner and his game-winning drives make him a legend in football history, firmly placing him among the Top 10 Quarterbacks of All Time.
1. Tom Brady – The Greatest of All Time (GOAT)
- Passing Yards: 89,214 (Most in NFL history)
- Touchdowns: 649 (Most in NFL history)
- Super Bowl Wins: 7 (Most by any player)
- Super Bowl MVP Awards: 5
- Super Bowl Appearances: 10 (Most by any player)
- Known for unmatched mental toughness and leadership
- Historic 28-3 comeback in Super Bowl LI
Tom Brady’s career is the epitome of resilience, determination, and greatness.
With seven Super Bowl victories and five Super Bowl MVPs, Brady’s accomplishments are unmatched in the NFL.
His ability to lead comebacks, such as the historic 28-3 comeback in Super Bowl LI, showcases his mental toughness and adaptability.
Brady’s career spanned over two decades, setting records for passing yards, touchdowns, and wins.
His relentless work ethic and leadership both on and off the field make him a symbol of greatness, earning him the top spot in the Top 10 Quarterbacks of All Time.
Conclusion – Top 10 Quarterbacks of All Time
In celebrating the Top 10 Quarterbacks of All Time, we honor their enduring influence on the sport.
These legendary quarterbacks set the benchmark for success, embodying qualities that define what it truly means to be a leader on the field.
Their stories inspire the next generation of players, proving that greatness is achieved not just through talent but through relentless dedication and the ability to rise to the occasion.
The Top 10 Quarterbacks of All Time will forever remain icons of the NFL, and their legacies will continue to shape the game for years to come.
List of Top 10 Quarterbacks of All Time
This table highlights the career achievements of the Top 10 Quarterbacks of All Time, showcasing their Super Bowl wins, MVP awards, and impressive statistics.
Each of these quarterbacks has shaped NFL history through their unique skills and lasting influence.
| Rank | Quarterback | Super Bowl Wins | MVP Awards | Passing Yards | Touchdowns | Career Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Tom Brady | 7 | 3 | 89,214 | 649 | Most Super Bowl wins, highest passing yards in NFL |
| 2 | Joe Montana | 4 | 2 | 40,551 | 273 | Perfect Super Bowl record, iconic 49ers career |
| 3 | Peyton Manning | 2 | 5 | 71,940 | 539 | Record five MVP awards, legendary field general |
| 4 | Johnny Unitas | 1 | 3 | 40,239 | 290 | Defined modern QB position, long-standing records |
| 5 | Brett Favre | 1 | 3 | 71,838 | 508 | NFL’s “Iron Man” with most consecutive starts |
| 6 | Drew Brees | 1 | 1 | 80,358 | 571 | Record completion percentage, exceptional accuracy |
| 7 | Dan Marino | 0 | 1 | 61,361 | 420 | Powerful arm, redefined passing game without SB win |
| 8 | Roger Staubach | 2 | 0 | 22,700 | 153 | Early dual-threat QB, legendary clutch performances |
| 9 | Steve Young | 3 | 2 | 33,124 | 232 | Left-handed brilliance, MVP and Super Bowl success |
| 10 | Aaron Rodgers | 1 | 4 | 59,055 | 475 | Precision passer, best TD-to-interception ratio |
FAQs Top 10 Quarterbacks of All Time
Who is considered the greatest quarterback of all time?
Tom Brady is widely regarded as the greatest quarterback due to his record-breaking stats and seven Super Bowl wins.
Who ranks as the number one QB of all time?
Most lists place Tom Brady at the top due to his unparalleled achievements and impact on the game.
Which quarterback has won the most Super Bowls?
Tom Brady holds the record with seven Super Bowl victories.
Who is the most accurate quarterback in NFL history?
Drew Brees is often recognized for his impressive completion percentage, the highest in NFL history.
What quarterback has the best stats of all time?
Statistically, Tom Brady leads in many categories, including passing yards and touchdowns.
Where does Aaron Rodgers rank among the greatest QBs?
Aaron Rodgers typically ranks within the top 10 for his accuracy, TD-to-interception ratio, and MVP awards.
Who is the most winning quarterback in NFL history?
Tom Brady holds the record for the most wins by a quarterback.
Is Patrick Mahomes on track to be an all-time great?
Yes, with two Super Bowl wins and numerous records, Mahomes is considered one of the top current QBs.
Who are the top 5 quarterbacks in NFL history?
Common choices include Tom Brady, Joe Montana, Peyton Manning, Johnny Unitas, and Drew Brees.
Who is known as the most clutch quarterback?
Joe Montana, famous for his calm performances under pressure, is often viewed as the most clutch QB.
What quarterback has the best TD-to-interception ratio?
Aaron Rodgers holds the record for the best touchdown-to-interception ratio.
Who has the most Super Bowl appearances as a quarterback?
Tom Brady leads with 10 Super Bowl appearances.
Is Eli Manning a Hall of Famer?
Although not yet inducted, Eli Manning is expected to make the Hall of Fame, largely due to his two Super Bowl MVPs.
Who has the highest passer rating in NFL history?
Patrick Mahomes and Aaron Rodgers are among the QBs with the highest career passer ratings.
Who is better: Tom Brady or Joe Montana?
Many consider Brady the best for his records, but Montana is admired for his perfect 4-0 Super Bowl record.
What makes Patrick Mahomes special as a quarterback?
Mahomes’ combination of arm strength, mobility, and accuracy sets him apart as an elite QB.
Who was the first QB to revolutionize the passing game?
Johnny Unitas is credited with transforming the NFL into a pass-oriented league.
Which QB holds the single-season touchdown record?
Peyton Manning set the record with 55 touchdown passes in 2013.
Who is the best dual-threat quarterback of all time?
Steve Young is often seen as one of the greatest dual-threat quarterbacks due to his rushing and passing prowess.
What makes Tom Brady’s career so remarkable?
Brady’s longevity, consistent performance, and Super Bowl wins define him as one of the greatest players in NFL history.
Quick Recap of Top 10 Quarterbacks of All Time
- Tom Brady
- Joe Montana
- Peyton Manning
- Johnny Unitas
- Brett Favre
- Drew Brees
- Dan Marino
- Roger Staubach
- Steve Young
- Aaron Rodgers
These legendary players make up the Top 10 Quarterbacks of All Time, each leaving a lasting mark on the NFL through their extraordinary skills, leadership, and memorable performances.
Their achievements not only defined their careers but also set benchmarks for future quarterbacks, showcasing what it takes to excel in one of the most challenging positions in sports.
As we celebrate the Top 10 Quarterbacks of All Time, their legacies continue to inspire and shape the game for generations to come.
