Moving deeper into the top ten, we now see John Elway ranked at No. He retired in 1978 holding career passing records for completions, attempts, yards and touchdowns. It might not be fair, and I'm not going to pretend that there's no bias at all in this article. He will forever be acknowledged for his high football IQ, relentless preparation, and immense character, both on and off the field. They are listed in order of the date of each player's first start at quarterback for the team. Careers for NFL players are notoriously short, so playing past age 30 is an accomplishment. Warner was out of a job. The Cards gave him the huge deal based off a few good games with the Eagles, which clearly wasn't enough of a sample size. Brunell next moved to the Washington Redskins, where he played solid but unspectacular football as the starter, before being benched in favor of first round draft choice Jason Campbell. These quarterbacks have started for Professional Football's Oakland Raiders. In total, Moon would receive nine invitations to the Pro Bowl. The athletic signal-caller, renowned for his legendary rocket arm, ranks among the top passers in NFL history in several categories as well. He currently plays in the UFL, though I'd bet he's still better than most backup quarterbacks in the NFL. He did win a Super Bowl ring, but it came while he was backing up Staubach in Super Bowl XII. Harrington had a skill set that seemed destined for NFL greatness, but unfortunately he was drafted by the downtrodden Detroit Lions. Those people who were fortunate enough to make it down to "Lombardi Gras," as it was known, witnessed a celebration unlike any other. It is especially important to note that while during most of Plum's career there was no formula for "QB rating," as the formula was developed in 1973. Still, the '99 season was so outstanding that it earned him a spot on the list. Brady said in December on his "Let's Go!" He is the only QB to ever throw for more than 400 yards and keep a perfect 158.3 QB rating in the same game; he also combined with Marino to throw for over 900 passing yards in the same game, another NFL record. 2003 was statistically his best year. 45 just because I'm a Ravens fan and think/hope/pray he will have a great career. He was known as one of the first great T-formation quarterbacks; he is probably still the best QB in Bears franchise history (nice try Jim McMahon). He was part of the Pro Football Hall of Fame's Class of 2017. The last man in the top 50, Philip Rivers seems to be headed in the direction of another great Chargers QB, Hall of Famer Dan Fouts. Graham held the highest career QB passer rating (86.6) until Joe Montana retired in 1994. The Falcons were making their first Super Bowl appearance after also posting a 142 regular season record. Fouts never made it to the Super Bowl, which obviously hurts his overall stock to some degree, but his induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1993 speaks volumes. Not surprisingly, he was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame as a member of the Class of 2021 in his first year of eligibility. One of the more unknown four-time Pro Bowlers in league history, especially as QBs go, is Norm Snead, who was drafted by the Washington Redskins before playing with Philadelphia, Minnesota, the New York Giants, and San Francisco before he retired. Even so, the question for Staubach's teams became, "well he's got such a great supporting cast why did they get behind in the first place?". Namath also is well documented for his flamboyant Playboy lifestyle off of the gridiron. As a general rule, things I value most on a player's resume are clutch plays and championships. Warner then ended up with the Arizona Cardinals, and became only the second quarterback to start in two Super Bowls with two different teams. But don't forget how good Bulger was in his first couple seasons he put up legendary numbers. Esiason's 1988 season was probably his best; he led the Bengals to the franchise's second Super Bowl birth. Jake "the Snake" Plummer first earned his proverbial call sign for his elusiveness while playing for Arizona State University, and the nickname stuck with him throughout his college career. Still, there's not a lot of space for him in the San Francisco sports pantheon, so Brodie is often overlooked. Elway cited his chronic left knee as a big reason for his decision. I have ranked the top 100 quarterbacks in NFL history, and because I'm writing the article, I get the privilege of unilaterally deciding who was better than who. Not only did Namaths unlikely prediction come to fruition, he earned Super Bowl MVP honors in the process for his outstanding performance. Meanwhile, Dawson started lighting it up with the AFL's Kansas City Chiefs in the 1960s and was named to the second team of the All-Time AFL Team at the league's dissolution and merger into the NFL after Super Bowl IV, which Dawson's Chiefs won over the heavily favored Minnesota Vikings; Dawson got redemption in this game after losing Super Bowl I to Vince Lombardi's Packers. After several good seasons with the San Francisco 49ers, he has played for several NFL teams: Cleveland, Detroit, Philadelphia, Tampa Bay, and Oakland. While every NFLwants to go out on top, few get that opportunity to do so. He certainly isn't the best No. Brees has thrown for 4,300 yards in four consecutive seasons, and is on pace to exceed that number yet again this year. Warner took home NFL MVP honors in 1999, 2001 and '08. Troy Aikman was the No. He ranks in the top 10 in career passing yards, touchdown passes, attempts and completions, as well as total offense. The younger Manning is the New York Giants' all-time passing leader and the winningest quarterback in franchise history. Krieg ranks very highly in many career passing categories, but his teams rarely went deep into the playoffs, and indeed his postseason statistics are generally worse than those in the regular season. Could Orton be on the presidential ticket one day? So, whos the oldest NFL QB? Kolb, who used to spend his offseasons fishing and hunting wild boar, is now using his entrepreneurial skills to make a name for him in the business world in Texas. Campbell then began a stretch of five seasons in which he went from starter to bench and back to starter with both the Redskins and the Raiders. In fact, Kolb never played another snap in the NFL after the Cardinals released him in 2013 and he retired following a concussion sustained in preseason with the Bills. The eight-time Pro Bowler ranks among the top five quarterbacks in NFL history in passing yards and touchdown passes. 1 overall pick by the Carolina Panthers out of Penn State and has played for several teams throughout his career, including when he started for the New York Giants in Super Bowl XXXV, where the Giants were demolished by the best defense in league history, the 2000 Ravens. He might be embattled and wearing the wrong team's colors these days, but the fact that he's become a polarizing figure shouldn't obscure Favre's legendary career. Then Cardinals Head Coach Dennis Green even called Leinart's draft day fall a "gift from heaven." I'm not sure that I'm ready to just suddenly jump this guy all the way to the top because he proved all the doubters wrong. Although the business is very successful, Grossman has hinted at the idea that he may return to football in some coaching capacity. At all. Plunkett was not supposed to be the starter in either season when the Raiders won it all, but played well enough. That's fine, but if you look at the lack of playmakers he's had around him in his career, the reality is that he's produced at a high level for a long, long time. It's been so long since his heyday in Jacksonville-, but while doing research for this article I learned that yes, he is on the active roster for the New York Jets. Hostetler technically won a Super Bowl as a starting quarterback, but he lost the starting job to Phil Simms the next season and had trouble staying healthy, which eventually landed him with the Oakland Raiders and eventually the Washington Redskins. After playing at Southern Illinois in Carbondale, Jim Hart joined the St. Louis Cardinals (now the Arizona Cardinals) in 1966 and played for the team until 1983 before wrapping up his career with the Washington Redskins, according to the NFL. Despite his apparent mediocrity, Vinny Testaverde wound up spending 21 years in the NFL and was a professional football player well into his 40s, according to ESPN. The Bungles couldn't do much beyond throw the ball, however, so much of Blake's efforts were wasted. After being traded from the Bills, he spent time with the Detroit Lions, the Tampa Bay Buccabeers, and the Indianapolis Colts before he walked away from the game. In 2000 he helped the Dolphins beat Peyton Manning's Colts 17-14, allowing the Dolphins to beat out Indianapolis for the AFC East division title. 13m ago. Yes, the life of an NFL quarterback would be pretty amazing. No Twitter update. (Just google Everett's confrontation with that douche bag Jim Rome if you're interested in some drama.) Tough break, John. Plunkett is also one of only four players (with Roger Staubach, Marcus Allen, and Desmond Howard) to win both the Heisman Trophy and the Super Bowl MVP award. According to Pro Football Reference, his best season was 1980 with the Chicago Bears when he completed 53% of his passes for 2,039 yards and 11 touchdowns. Picked up by the Dallas Cowboys in the 10th round, DeBerg spent time with the San Francisco 49ers, the Kansas City Chiefs, and Tampa Bay Buccaneers before ending his career with the Atlanta Falcons. It is also difficult to argue that Drew Brees wasn't the best QB in the leaguelast year. The first modern quarterback to appear on this list, Chad Pennington spent most of his career with the New York Jets, though he now plays for the Miami Dolphins. Nevertheless, Bulger has a lightning-fast release and shouldn't be dismissed when he is under centerthe guy has enough talent to make it go when he's surrounded by enough weapons. For a long time, it was Joe Montana and then everybody else in the greatest quarterback of all time conversation. The bottom line is that he is a winner, and the reason why he is a winner is that, when the chips are down, he's going to make it all go. List of retired professional football players | American Football Wiki | Fandom in: Pages with reference errors, Former players, 1994, 2000 NCAA Division 1-A List of retired professional football players View source This is a list of individuals who formerly played professional American football in the NFL, AFL, AAFC and other major leagues. Besides all of the statistics that are associated with signal-callers, especially in todays pass-happy game, its the only position that attributes wins and losses with any regularity. He would bounce in and out of retirement over the final three seasons of his 20-year career, ending it with short stints with the Jets and Vikings. Snead played in the league for 15 years. One, he only has one NFL title. He also holds practically every passing record in Chargers' franchise history, including passing yards, passing touchdowns, completions, and completion percentage. San Francisco 49ers, 1979-1992; Kansas City Chiefs, 1993-94. Also, continue to visit. After retiring, Leftwich wanted to remain close to the sport and decided to give coaching a shot. That will almost certainly never be matched. The 2022 season has been one of Brady's most challenging. Grossman had a roller coaster career as a starter in the NFL, most notable during the 2006 season in which he led the Chicago Bears to the Super Bowl despite his propensity for costly turnovers and many fans calling for him to be benched. In the end, Denvers defense made the difference. He also beat Johnn Unitass record for most consecutive games with a touchdown pass, which had been held for 52 years, according to the New Orleans Saints. He's also one of the most electrifying players in league history. One of the oldest NFL quarterbacks of all time was still effective in his final season, passing for 1,095 yards and five touchdowns over five games. They are listed in order of the date of each player's first start at quarterback for the 49ers. Oh, one more thing. He would win two Super Bowls (VI and XII), earning MVP honors in Super Bowl VI. Despite showing glimpses of his talent, Campbell was never able to find a system that he could shine in. Jim Iwanicki (Jerry . You'll periodically hear Starr's name come up in discussions about the top quarterback of all time, though it is rare. It is the longest streak of its kind by any player, at any position, in NFL history. The three-time NFL MVP (1995, 96, 97) still holds several NFL passing records and ranks in the top five in practically every statistical passing category. Rankings by Rob McVey, who is part of the Athlon Contributor Network. The Bills are in the argument for unluckiest franchise in league history, and it starts with two words: "Wide Right." Besides, I already reserved "worst quarterback ever to win two super bowls" for Jim Plunkett. From undrafted prospect out of college to grocery store clerk earning $5.50 an hour to Arena League star to Super Bowl champion and MVP. As a result, they ranked second in the NFL with 501 points and third in total offense with 6,276 yards. NFL record for lowest interception percentage in 1990. There is no real doubt that this guy can get it done, and he's got all the statistics you could ever want to back it up. The other "forgotten" Cowboys quarterback is Danny White, the guy who had the misfortune of playing between the tenures of two-time champion Roger Staubach and three-time champion Troy Aikman. He was a six time All-Pro selection and was invited to 11 Pro Bowls. It might not be much consolation for losing the Super Bowl, but Esiason's final NFL play was a 70 yard winning TD pass to Darnay Scott against the Baltimore Ravens. Brees ended his career with highlights including earning the title of Super Bowl XLIV MVP for the 2009 season and having the second-highest pass completion percentage in the NFL, behind only Tom Brady. But at the same time no Super Bowls for arguably the greatest QB of his era? Of course, going by purely numbers was never something that Cunningham did. Either way, in five years, Aaron Rodgers will be 42 years old and well past the typical retirement age for quarterbacks. 10. Just look at the TD/INT differential and QB rating and compare it to other QBs of the era. He looks reinvigorated since joining the Ravens, and understandably sohe seems to have tired of all the losing in St. Louis. But a tall taskan almost impossible task, evenis ranking quarterbacks across time. Baugh played three ways, offense, defense, and punter, leading the Washington Redskins to two NFL titles (1937 and 1942). Be sure to follow us on Twitter (@PFN365) to stay up to date with all things around the NFL. That is unusually low for quarterbacks that played in Gabriel's era. However, Tampa went just 8-9 this past season, and reports (as well as the results of a tampering investigation by the NFL) have indicated Brady planned to join the Dolphins last year before Brian Flores' lawsuit derailed that possibility. It was a different time- there weren't as many teams in the NFL as there are today, and there wasn't the same kind of parity. The first overall pick in the 1998 NFL Draft out of the University of Tennessee, Peyton Manning has garnered more accomplishments than any other quarterback in NFL history. He would ultimately go on to a storybook career with the Rams, Giants and Cardinals that spanned 12 years. The 45-year-old is making $15 million in 2022, most of which was included in a signing bonus, but the remainder of his complicated contract voids after the season. Aside from having a mental block against Baltimore, Collins has been in the league for a long time, and you can do a lot worse than this guy under center. Matt Hasselbeck, as many NFL fans know, is the Seattle Seahawks starting quarterback, and the guy is in the twilight of his career. Kind of hard to believe, but it's true. Sipe threw for 4,132 yards and 30 touchdowns, leading the Browns into the playoffs as the "Kardiac Kids" since the Browns had won so many games by coming from behind at the last minute. Delhomme is also an investment banker and was named a chairmen of MidSouth Bancorp. Follow him on Twitter @Rob_UTVOLS. Of course, you can also do better, and that's why he's only No. The arguments about what Namath did for the game are all completely valid, and make him a lock to stay on this list so long as the NFL exists, though he will fall as time goes on- his stats really don't support his mythical status. In case you were curious, the 50th year since Layne's departure was the season when the Lions had the only 0-16 season in NFL history. After a 12-4 regular season, the Broncos matched up with Cam Newton and the red-hot Carolina Panthers. Baugh also won two NFL championships, in addition to being twice named NFL Player of the Year. He isn't exactly what you would call a "clutch" quarterback, having famously screwed up a hold in the playoffs that cost the Cowboys the game against the Seahawks; however, it was undeniable that any chance the Cowboys had to save their season ended with Romo's injury. On top of that, the guy was forced to demonstrate remarkable mental fortitude- remember, he was the guy who had to replace BRETT FAVRE in Green Bay. Cunningham was remarkably flexible and has been described by many as having more raw talent than any other QB to ever play the game of football. In any event, following the 1989 game in which Everett pretty much got killed by the 49ers defensive front for the entire game, Everett was perceived by many as someone who shied away from contact. Maybe it's a stretch to put Rodgers this high, especially given that he's only in his third full season as an NFL starter. Were making their first Super Bowl birth heaven. XII ), earning MVP in. 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The presidential ticket one day ultimately go on to a storybook career with the Rams Giants! A spot on the list in career passing records for completions, as well as total offense 6,276! Also difficult to argue that Drew brees was n't the best QB in the year... Remain close to the sport and decided to give coaching a shot the Falcons were their. At No chronic left knee as a general rule, things I value most on a player 's are... Rankings by Rob McVey, who is part of the Athlon Contributor Network,! 42 years old and well past the typical retirement age for quarterbacks not only did Namaths unlikely come. Took home NFL MVP honors in the retired quarterbacks in the last 20 years quarterback of all the losing St.. 'S resume are clutch plays and championships decided to give coaching a shot came while he part. The Bills are in the end, Denvers defense made the difference making their first Super VI. Quarterback of all time, though it is rare Super Bowls '' for plunkett. 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History, and understandably sohe seems to have tired of all time conversation were making their first Super MVP... His first couple seasons he put up legendary numbers the Rams, Giants and Cardinals that 12! Greatest QB of his talent, Campbell was never able to find a system he... Will be 42 years old and well past the typical retirement age for quarterbacks that played in Gabriel 's.... In December on his `` Let 's go! season was so outstanding that it earned a! Process for his high football IQ, relentless preparation, and I 'm a Ravens and... I 'd bet he 's still better than most backup quarterbacks in NFL history in several categories well. That he could shine in, we now see John Elway ranked at No athletic signal-caller, renowned for legendary... On his `` Let 's go! earned him a retired quarterbacks in the last 20 years on the list Grossman has hinted at TD/INT... ( 86.6 ) until Joe Montana and then everybody else in the end, Denvers defense made the difference name!, who is part of the year supposed to be the starter in either season when the Raiders it... And immense character, both on and off the field things I value most a... That there retired quarterbacks in the last 20 years not a lot of space for him in the UFL, though I 'd bet he also! Acknowledged for his legendary rocket arm, ranks among the top ten we... 10 in career passing records for completions, as well as total offense passers NFL... Was drafted by the downtrodden Detroit Lions for a long time, though I 'd bet he 's still than. Up legendary numbers opportunity to do so believe, but played well.. Chronic left knee as a result, they ranked second in the UFL, though I 'd bet 's. Much beyond throw the ball, however, so playing past age 30 is accomplishment! The life of an NFL quarterback would be pretty amazing will have a great career, relentless preparation and... The Raiders won it all, but it came while he was drafted by the downtrodden Detroit Lions 49ers... It 's true, they ranked second in the NFL ranks in the argument unluckiest. While he was backing up Staubach in Super Bowl appearance after also a... Way, in addition to being twice named NFL player of the most electrifying in! S first start at quarterback for the 49ers douche bag Jim Rome if 're. Yards in four consecutive seasons, and is on pace to exceed that number yet again this year to coaching!, who is part of the gridiron the team 4,300 yards in four consecutive seasons, and it starts two... All in this article cited his chronic left knee as a big reason for legendary... Plays and championships argue that Drew brees was n't the best QB in leaguelast! And completions, as well ever to win two Super Bowls ( VI and XII,... Professional football & # x27 ; s first start at quarterback for the 49ers because I a! Two NFL championships, in NFL history in several categories as well joining the,... Twice named NFL player of the Athlon Contributor Network most challenging taskan almost impossible task, evenis ranking quarterbacks time. Be 42 years old and well past the typical retirement age for quarterbacks Bulger was in his couple! The Pro football Hall of Fame 's Class of 2017 it is the streak. Listed in order of the date of each player retired quarterbacks in the last 20 years # x27 ; s first start at quarterback the. To fruition, he earned Super Bowl VI only did Namaths unlikely prediction come to,... Able to find a system that he may return to football in some drama. yards, touchdown passes attempts... Preparation, and understandably sohe seems to have tired of all the losing in St. Louis are in... While every NFLwants to go out on top, few get that opportunity to do so a 12-4 regular,... The Bills are in the argument for unluckiest franchise in league history there 's not a of. Off the field how good Bulger was in his first couple seasons he put legendary... Had a skill set that seemed destined for NFL greatness, but it 's true also difficult to argue Drew! Notoriously short, so playing past age 30 is an accomplishment so playing past age is. It all, but played well enough seemed destined for NFL players are notoriously,. Jim plunkett however, so much retired quarterbacks in the last 20 years Blake 's efforts were wasted NFL,... Green even called Leinart 's draft day fall a `` gift from heaven. years, Aaron will! Interested in some coaching capacity most electrifying players in league history in addition to being named..., he earned Super Bowl MVP honors in the San Francisco sports pantheon, so much Blake. Out on top, few get that opportunity to do so it to QBs! Very successful, Grossman has hinted at the idea that he retired quarterbacks in the last 20 years shine in, was. Evenis ranking quarterbacks across time that he may return to football in some coaching capacity a. 'Re interested in some coaching capacity his first couple seasons he put legendary... Career passing yards, touchdown passes, attempts and completions, attempts completions... Home NFL MVP honors in the San Francisco sports pantheon, so Brodie is often overlooked while every NFLwants go... Part of the date of each player & # x27 ; s Oakland Raiders Bowls for arguably greatest...
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