The debate about the greatest NFL quarterbacks of all time has been a longstanding one, with opinions varying depending on personal taste, team loyalty, and generational differences. However, one thing is certain: these athletes have demonstrated exceptional skill, leadership, and dedication to the sport, leaving an indelible mark on the game.
Over the years, we've witnessed incredible performances, record-breaking feats, and championship wins that have cemented the legacies of these quarterbacks. In this article, we'll explore the top 10 greatest NFL quarterbacks of all time, examining their achievements, statistics, and lasting impacts on the sport.
The Criteria for Greatness
To determine the greatest NFL quarterbacks of all time, we considered a combination of factors, including:
Super Bowl wins and MVP awards Regular season and postseason statistics (passing yards, touchdowns, interceptions, completion percentage) Awards and accolades (NFL MVP, Pro Bowl appearances, First-Team All-Pro selections) Leadership and clutch performances Dominance over their peers and era Longevity and consistency
With these criteria in mind, let's dive into our top 10 list.
10. Steve Young
Steve Young's career was marked by incredible success, including two NFL MVP awards, a Super Bowl XXIX MVP, and seven Pro Bowl appearances. He holds the record for highest career passer rating (96.8) and is one of the most accurate quarterbacks in NFL history.
Key Statistics:
Completions: 2,667 Passing Yards: 33,124 Touchdowns: 232 Interceptions: 107 Completion Percentage: 64.3%
9. Dan Marino
Dan Marino's impressive career was highlighted by his record-breaking passing yards (61,361) and touchdowns (420). He was a nine-time Pro Bowl selection and was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2005.
Key Statistics:
Completions: 4,967 Passing Yards: 61,361 Touchdowns: 420 Interceptions: 248 Completion Percentage: 59.4%
8. Jim Kelly
Jim Kelly led the Buffalo Bills to four consecutive Super Bowl appearances, earning him a reputation as a clutch performer. He was a five-time Pro Bowl selection and was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2002.
Key Statistics:
Completions: 2,692 Passing Yards: 45,467 Touchdowns: 234 Interceptions: 175 Completion Percentage: 58.4%
7. John Elway
John Elway's illustrious career was marked by two Super Bowl wins, seven Pro Bowl appearances, and a reputation as one of the greatest clutch performers in NFL history.
Key Statistics:
Completions: 3,217 Passing Yards: 51,485 Touchdowns: 300 Interceptions: 226 Completion Percentage: 56.9%
6. Troy Aikman
Troy Aikman led the Dallas Cowboys to three Super Bowl wins, earning him a reputation as one of the greatest quarterbacks of his era. He was a six-time Pro Bowl selection and was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2006.
Key Statistics:
Completions: 2,898 Passing Yards: 32,942 Touchdowns: 165 Interceptions: 141 Completion Percentage: 61.5%
5. Brett Favre
Brett Favre's incredible longevity and consistency earned him a reputation as one of the greatest quarterbacks in NFL history. He holds the record for most consecutive starts by a quarterback (297) and was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2016.
Key Statistics:
Completions: 6,300 Passing Yards: 71,838 Touchdowns: 508 Interceptions: 336 Completion Percentage: 61.3%
4. Aaron Rodgers
Aaron Rodgers' impressive career has been marked by two NFL MVP awards, a Super Bowl XLV MVP, and a reputation as one of the most accurate quarterbacks in NFL history.
Key Statistics:
Completions: 4,234 Passing Yards: 51,245 Touchdowns: 412 Interceptions: 89 Completion Percentage: 65.3%
3. Tom Brady
Tom Brady's incredible career has been marked by seven Super Bowl wins, four Super Bowl MVPs, and three NFL MVP awards. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest quarterbacks in NFL history.
Key Statistics:
Completions: 6,778 Passing Yards: 73,517 Touchdowns: 532 Interceptions: 198 Completion Percentage: 65.3%
2. Peyton Manning
Peyton Manning's impressive career was marked by two Super Bowl wins, seven NFL MVP awards, and a reputation as one of the greatest quarterbacks in NFL history.
Key Statistics:
Completions: 6,125 Passing Yards: 71,940 Touchdowns: 539 Interceptions: 251 Completion Percentage: 65.3%
1. Joe Montana
Joe Montana's incredible career was marked by four Super Bowl wins, three Super Bowl MVPs, and a reputation as one of the greatest quarterbacks in NFL history. He is widely regarded as the greatest quarterback of all time.
Key Statistics:
Completions: 3,409 Passing Yards: 40,551 Touchdowns: 273 Interceptions: 139 Completion Percentage: 63.2%
Legacy and Impact
These quarterbacks have left an indelible mark on the sport, inspiring future generations with their incredible skills, leadership, and dedication. Their legacies extend beyond their on-field accomplishments, as they have helped shape the game into what it is today.
As we continue to witness new quarterbacks rise to prominence, it's essential to acknowledge the contributions of these all-time greats. Their impact on the sport will be felt for generations to come, and their names will remain etched in the annals of NFL history.
Now it's your turn! Who do you think is the greatest NFL quarterback of all time? Share your thoughts and opinions in the comments below.
Who is the greatest NFL quarterback of all time?
+Joe Montana is widely regarded as the greatest NFL quarterback of all time, with four Super Bowl wins, three Super Bowl MVPs, and a reputation as one of the greatest clutch performers in NFL history.
What are the criteria for greatness in an NFL quarterback?
+The criteria for greatness in an NFL quarterback include Super Bowl wins and MVP awards, regular season and postseason statistics, awards and accolades, leadership and clutch performances, dominance over their peers and era, and longevity and consistency.
Who is the most accurate quarterback in NFL history?
+Aaron Rodgers is widely regarded as one of the most accurate quarterbacks in NFL history, with a career completion percentage of 65.3%.
Gallery of Top 10 Greatest Nfl Quarterbacks Of All Time
