Quarterbacks are the lifeblood of an NFL team, often carrying the weight of the game on their shoulders. Over the years, several quarterbacks have set themselves apart with exceptional careers, game-winning performances, and unbreakable records. This article highlights the best quarterbacks in NFL history, showcasing their contributions to the game and key achievements.
Let’s see the Top 10 Best Quarterbacks of NFL History :
10. Drew Brees

Drew Brees may not have had the physical gifts of some of his peers, but his remarkable accuracy and poise on the field have made him one of the best quarterbacks of NFL history. Brees revolutionized passing with his quick release and ability to read defenses. Despite being just six feet tall, his career lasted two decades, marked by exceptional precision and leadership, earning him a spot among the best quarterbacks of NFL history.
Team | Key Achievement |
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Los Angeles Chargers, New Orleans Saints | Super Bowl 44 champion, 13 Pro Bowls, 7-time passing yards leader |
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9. Fran Tarkenton
Fran Tarkenton was one of the NFL’s original dual-threat quarterbacks. Tarkenton’s combination of passing and scrambling ability helped lead his teams to three Super Bowl appearances. He was one of the most electrifying quarterbacks of his time, known for his improvisational play and his ability to make something out of nothing, which helped him earn a place among the best quarterbacks of NFL history.
Team | Key Achievement |
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Minnesota Vikings, New York Giants | 9 Pro Bowls, MVP (1975), Offensive Player of the Year (1975) |
8. John Elway

A true legend of the game, John Elway led the Denver Broncos to five Super Bowl appearances, winning two of them. Known for his incredible arm strength and ability to perform in clutch moments, Elway was the epitome of a one-man army. He dominated the 1980s and 1990s with his combination of mobility, passing, and leadership, securing his place as one of the best quarterbacks of NFL history.
Team | Key Achievement |
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Denver Broncos | 2-time Super Bowl champion, 9 Pro Bowls, MVP (1987) |
7. Aaron Rodgers
Aaron Rodgers is arguably one of the most talented quarterbacks in NFL history. Known for his pinpoint accuracy, minimal turnovers, and exceptional arm strength, Rodgers has put together a career that includes four MVPs. Despite having only one Super Bowl to his name, his overall stats and playmaking ability keep him among the best quarterbacks of NFL history.
Team | Key Achievement |
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Green Bay Packers, New York Jets | Super Bowl 45 champion, 4-time MVP, 10 Pro Bowls |
6. Peyton Manning

One of the most cerebral quarterbacks to ever play the game, Peyton Manning dominated the NFL for over 15 seasons. Known for his incredible football IQ, Manning’s ability to read defenses and call plays at the line of scrimmage made him a difficult opponent for anyone. His two Super Bowl titles are just part of an incredible resume, placing him firmly among the best quarterbacks of NFL history.
Team | Key Achievement |
---|---|
Indianapolis Colts, Denver Broncos | 2-time Super Bowl champion, 5-time MVP, 14 Pro Bowls |
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5. Otto Graham
Otto Graham was one of the most dominant quarterbacks in the early years of the NFL, leading the Cleveland Browns to 10 championship games in 10 seasons. His unique ability to adapt to the game’s evolving nature made him a key figure in the NFL’s development, and his seven championships remain unmatched, ensuring his place as one of the best quarterbacks of NFL history.
Team | Key Achievement |
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Cleveland Browns | 3-time NFL champion, 3-time MVP, 5 Pro Bowls |
4. Patrick Mahomes
In just a short career, Patrick Mahomes has already solidified his place as one of the best quarterbacks of NFL history. Known for his electrifying style of play and his ability to deliver under pressure, Mahomes has already won three Super Bowls and multiple MVP awards, setting the stage for an even greater legacy.
Team | Key Achievement |
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Kansas City Chiefs | 3-time Super Bowl champion, 2-time MVP, 6 Pro Bowls |
3. Johnny Unitas

Johnny Unitas was a pioneer of the quarterback position, revolutionizing the NFL with his forward passing and ability to execute the two-minute drill. Unitas set numerous records during his time with the Indianapolis Colts, leading the team to three championships. His playmaking ability made him one of the most respected quarterbacks of his era and one of the best quarterbacks of NFL history.
Team | Key Achievement |
---|---|
Indianapolis Colts | 3-time NFL champion, 3-time MVP, 10 Pro Bowls |
2. Joe Montana
Joe Montana, known for his calm demeanor and clutch performances, was the quarterback that led the San Francisco 49ers to four Super Bowl titles. Montana excelled in high-pressure situations, earning three Super Bowl MVPs and cementing his place among the best quarterbacks of NFL history.
Team | Key Achievement |
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San Francisco 49ers, Kansas City Chiefs | 4-time Super Bowl champion, 3-time Super Bowl MVP, 2-time MVP |
1. Tom Brady

Tom Brady is often regarded as the greatest quarterback of all time, and for good reason. With seven Super Bowl titles, five Super Bowl MVPs, and numerous other accolades, Brady has redefined longevity and excellence at the quarterback position. His ability to win in high-stakes situations and lead his teams to championships is unmatched, making him the clear choice for the best quarterback in NFL history.
Team | Key Achievement |
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New England Patriots, Tampa Bay Buccaneers | 7-time Super Bowl champion, 5-time Super Bowl MVP, 3-time MVP |
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