Top 20 Dual-Threat Quarterbacks Ever

Quarterbacks who can pass and run at a high level have always added a special twist to football. They keep defenses guessing and can turn broken plays into game-changing moments. Whether it’s a 70-yard run or a perfect deep throw, dual-threat quarterbacks bring unmatched excitement.

Tricia Quitales
June 12, 2025
8 min read

Top 20 Dual-Threat Quarterbacks Ever — © John Reed-US Presswire

This article highlights the 20 greatest dual-threat quarterbacks in football history, blending passing accuracy with rushing ability. It features athletes who changed games using both their arms and legs, making defenses work twice as hard. Each player is recognized for their influence, production, and unforgettable moments, their style of play helped evolve the quarterback position into what it is today.

20. Brad Smith

Brad Smith wasn’t a household name, but he brought serious versatility to the field. Known for his time with the Jets, he was used in wildcat formations and gadget plays. At Missouri, he was the first player in NCAA history with over 8,000 passing and 4,000 rushing yards. Smith’s pro career didn’t explode, but his college stats and flexibility made him a standout. His unique role paved the way for more creative quarterback usage.

19. Daunte Culpepper

Daunte Culpepper had a huge arm and surprising mobility for his size. With Randy Moss as a target, he put up monster numbers in the early 2000s. He could break tackles, extend plays, and pick up key first downs with his legs. Culpepper finished his career with over 2,500 rushing yards, adding that extra threat behind center. At his peak, he was one of the most feared dual-threats in the NFL.

18. Kordell Stewart

Nicknamed “Slash,” Kordell Stewart could do it all on the football field. He played quarterback, wide receiver, and even running back early in his career. Stewart had over 38 rushing touchdowns and more than 2,800 rushing yards as a QB. His biggest years came with the Steelers, where he helped lead the team deep into the playoffs. He brought an unpredictable style that excited fans and confused defenses.

17. Colin Kaepernick

Colin Kaepernick took the league by storm with his powerful arm and blazing speed. He set an NFL playoff record with 181 rushing yards in a single game. Kaepernick led the 49ers to a Super Bowl and was a big-play threat every time he touched the ball. His mobility was unmatched during his prime years. Off the field, he also made headlines, but his dual-threat ability remains unforgettable.

16. Vince Young

Vince Young was a college football legend who carried that electric energy into the NFL. He was named NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year and led the Titans to several comeback wins. Young had over 1,400 rushing yards in just five NFL seasons. His ability to escape pressure and make big plays made him a threat on every down. Although his pro career was brief, his dual-threat style left a lasting impression.

15. Cam Newton

Cam Newton burst onto the scene with size, strength, and speed that few quarterbacks ever had. He won MVP in 2015 and led the Panthers to the Super Bowl. Newton rushed for over 5,600 yards and scored more than 75 touchdowns on the ground. He was nearly impossible to stop near the goal line. His combination of power and agility redefined what a quarterback could look like.

14. Donovan McNabb

Donovan McNabb blended running and passing with a balanced approach that helped the Eagles win for years. He threw for over 37,000 yards and rushed for nearly 3,500 more. McNabb took Philadelphia to five NFC Championship games and one Super Bowl. He knew when to run and when to stay in the pocket, mastering both styles. His steady leadership and dual ability made him a consistent winner.

13. Randall Cunningham

Randall Cunningham was doing things in the ’80s and ’90s that looked like they came from the future. He could launch a pass 60 yards or take off on a 30-yard scramble with ease. Cunningham had more than 4,900 rushing yards in his career. He was a four-time Pro Bowler and one of the most entertaining quarterbacks ever. His skills laid the groundwork for today’s mobile stars.

12. Kyler Murray

Kyler Murray’s quickness and arm talent made him an immediate NFL threat. He won Offensive Rookie of the Year and showed elite rushing ability with over 500 yards in each of his first three seasons. Murray moves like a running back but throws like a seasoned quarterback. His small size hasn’t limited his playmaking ability. He’s still early in his career, but the future looks bright for this dual-threat star.

11. Steve Young

Steve Young took over from Joe Montana and added his own twist to the 49ers’ offense. He threw accurate passes and was one of the most intelligent quarterbacks among his peers. Young finished his career with over 4,200 rushing yards and 43 rushing touchdowns. He won two MVPs and a Super Bowl MVP, proving his greatness. His smooth balance of running and throwing helped set the standard.

10. Fran Tarkenton

Fran Tarkenton played in an era when most quarterbacks stayed in the pocket, but he was known for his ability to scramble. He held many records at the time of his retirement, both for passing and extending plays with his legs. Tarkenton rushed for over 3,600 yards in his career. He was a nine-time Pro Bowler and reached three Super Bowls. His off-script style made him a pioneer of the dual-threat quarterback.

9. Jalen Hurts

Jalen Hurts is proving that hard work and versatility pay off. He rushed for over 700 yards in multiple seasons and led the Eagles to a Super Bowl appearance. Hurts combines strength, leadership, and quick decision-making. He’s built like a running back but has improved every year as a passer. His ceiling remains high as he continues to grow as a dual-threat leader.

8. Josh Allen

Josh Allen entered the league as a raw talent but developed into a star with a rocket arm and powerful running ability. He’s rushed for more than 40 touchdowns and is tough to bring down. Allen uses his legs in key moments and delivers deep throws under pressure. His size and athleticism create matchup nightmares for defenses. Few quarterbacks offer his blend of physical tools and fearlessness.

7. Lamar Jackson

Lamar Jackson became the youngest quarterback to win MVP while rushing for over 1,200 yards in a season. He can change games with his legs but continues to improve as a passer. Jackson already holds multiple rushing records for quarterbacks. He leads a new wave of fast, elusive playmakers who keep defenses off balance. Every snap with Jackson under center is a threat to go the distance.

6. Michael Vick

Michael Vick changed how people viewed quarterback movement. He had the speed of a wide receiver and the arm of a deep passer. Vick rushed for more than 6,100 yards, the most ever by a quarterback at the time. Defenders had to build entire game plans just to contain him. His raw athleticism made him one of the most exciting players in NFL history.

5. Justin Fields

Justin Fields has quickly become one of the most dangerous running quarterbacks in the NFL. In just two seasons, he rushed for over 1,100 yards in one year, a rare achievement for a quarterback. Fields continues to grow as a passer, making him a dual threat in every sense. His speed and vision in the open field are special. With time and development, he could climb even higher on this list.

4. Robert Griffin III

Robert Griffin III’s rookie year was one of the best for any dual-threat quarterback. He threw and ran with precision, winning Offensive Rookie of the Year in 2012. Injuries slowed him down, but his talent was undeniable. RGIII could take over a game with his legs or deliver a perfect pass deep downfield. His short-lived peak showed just how powerful a dual-threat quarterback could be.

3. Russell Wilson

Russell Wilson became known for escaping pressure and making magic happen. He won a Super Bowl and reached another while making big throws and key runs. Wilson rushed for over 5,000 yards and scored dozens of touchdowns on the ground. He avoided turnovers and extended plays better than almost anyone. His smart decision-making, combined with athleticism, made him elite for nearly a decade.

2. Patrick Mahomes

Patrick Mahomes is known for his passing magic, but he’s also sneaky effective with his legs. He’s picked up crucial first downs and touchdowns by scrambling at just the right time. Mahomes can run, throw across his body, and find windows others don’t see. His movement makes defenses freeze, unsure of what’s coming next. He is the modern blueprint of the total quarterback.

1. John Elway

John Elway had one of the strongest arms in NFL history and could run with the best of them. He rushed for over 3,400 yards and added 33 touchdowns on the ground. Elway played in five Super Bowls and won two to close his career. His combination of toughness, intelligence, and athleticism made him a complete quarterback. Long before mobile quarterbacks became common, Elway demonstrated the power of that style.