Top 15 NFL Quarterbacks in History — Ranked

These 15 quarterbacks defined greatness in the NFL with their records, championships, and leadership.

Sophia Zapanta
June 11, 2025
4 min read

Top 15 NFL Quarterbacks in History — Ranked — Ted McDonnell on Pexels

The quarterback is the most important position in football. Over the years, a few have set themselves apart with elite skills, wins, and long-lasting impact. This list ranks the top 15 quarterbacks based on performance, legacy, and influence on the game.

15. Bart Starr

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Bart Starr led the Green Bay Packers to five NFL championships, including the first two Super Bowls. He was named MVP in both Super Bowl I and II. Starr was known for his calm leadership and efficiency. His playoff record remains one of the best in history.

14. Warren Moon

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Warren Moon threw for over 49,000 yards in the NFL after a Hall of Fame career in the CFL. He was a nine-time Pro Bowler and one of the most prolific passers of his time. He played with poise and accuracy, often leading high-powered offenses. Moon broke barriers as a Black quarterback in a time of limited opportunities.

13. Kurt Warner

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Kurt Warner’s story is one of the greatest in NFL history. He went from stocking grocery shelves to winning two MVPs and a Super Bowl. Warner led the Rams’ “Greatest Show on Turf” offense. He also reached another Super Bowl with the Cardinals, proving his elite status.

12. Terry Bradshaw

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Terry Bradshaw won four Super Bowls with the Pittsburgh Steelers in the 1970s. He was known for his arm strength and clutch play. While his stats were not always dominant, he delivered when it mattered most. Bradshaw was named Super Bowl MVP twice.

11. Drew Brees

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Drew Brees retired as the NFL’s all-time leader in passing yards and completions. He led the New Orleans Saints to a Super Bowl win and changed the team’s history. Brees was known for accuracy, quick decisions, and consistent high-level play. He made the Saints a top offense for more than a decade.

10. Roger Staubach

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Roger Staubach was a key part of the Dallas Cowboys’ rise in the 1970s. He won two Super Bowls and was named MVP in one. Staubach combined intelligence, toughness, and mobility. He was also a Naval officer, which added to his respect and legacy.

9. Steve Young

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Steve Young took over from Joe Montana and became a star in his own right. He won two league MVPs and a Super Bowl MVP. Young had a strong arm, quick legs, and a smart approach. He led the league in passer rating six times.

8. Troy Aikman

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Troy Aikman guided the Dallas Cowboys to three Super Bowl wins in the 1990s. He was known for his timing, toughness, and control of the game. Aikman’s numbers were solid but not flashy, as his teams relied on balance. His playoff performance was consistently strong.

7. Dan Marino

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Dan Marino threw for over 61,000 yards and held many passing records at retirement. He reached the Super Bowl early in his career but never won one. Marino had a quick release and elite vision. He set the standard for pure passing ability.

6. Aaron Rodgers

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Aaron Rodgers won four league MVPs and a Super Bowl MVP. He is known for his precision, mobility, and few interceptions. Rodgers consistently delivered big plays with limited turnovers. His talent and stats make him one of the most efficient quarterbacks ever.

5. John Elway

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John Elway led the Denver Broncos to five Super Bowls and won two late in his career. He was known for his arm strength, comebacks, and leadership. Elway carried teams in the 1980s and finished with a strong final chapter. He is also credited for improving after years of falling short.

4. Brett Favre

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Brett Favre was the NFL’s iron man with 297 straight starts. He won three MVPs and a Super Bowl with the Packers. Favre was known for his toughness, arm strength, and fearless play. He retired as the all-time leader in passing touchdowns and yards at the time.

3. Johnny Unitas

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Johnny Unitas was the face of the NFL in the 1950s and 1960s. He set records for consecutive games with a touchdown pass. Unitas led the Colts to championships and helped popularize the modern passing game. His style and success shaped the quarterback role.

2. Peyton Manning

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Peyton Manning won five MVPs and two Super Bowls. He was known for his football IQ, accuracy, and control at the line of scrimmage. Manning broke multiple records during his career, including single-season touchdowns and yards. He lifted every team he played on and revolutionized the position.

1. Tom Brady

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Tom Brady won seven Super Bowls, more than any player in history. He also holds records for passing yards, touchdowns, and wins. Brady’s career lasted over two decades, and he remained elite into his 40s. His postseason success and leadership define greatness in the NFL.