By In the NFL, no position carries as much weight as the quarterback. They are the ones who lead, make plays, and are often the faces of their respective franchises. Over the decades, countless legends have stepped onto the field, but only a select few can be considered among the greatest quarterbacks of all time. In this ranking, we use quantifiable metrics like Super Bowl championships, which gives us a level playing field to rank these legends without any bias. We will alo provide some other stats to make it more thorough.
Top Quarterbacks of All Time
Although the list is based entirely on the number of Super Bowl championships, we have taken the liberty of ranking players with the same number of Super Bowl wins according to other metrics.
1. Tom Brady – 7 Super Bowls
When you talk about the greatest quarterbacks of all time, Tom Brady’s name immediately comes up. With seven Super Bowl victories, more than any single franchise in NFL history, Brady redefined longevity and excellence. He finished with over 89,000 passing yards and 649 touchdowns. Beyond the numbers, his clutch performances in championship games, including historic comebacks like Super Bowl LI against the Falcons, cement his legacy as the GOAT. He is also among the top 10 sportspersons of all time, all thanks to his accolades on the track.
2. Joe Montana – 4 Super Bowls
Before Brady, Joe Montana was widely regarded as the gold standard. Winning four Super Bowls with the San Francisco 49ers, Montana was nicknamed “Joe Cool” for his ability to remain calm under pressure. His flawless Super Bowl record (4–0) and three Super Bowl MVPs highlight why he belongs high on the list of the greatest quarterbacks of all time. His precision and leadership in the West Coast offence defined an era of football.
3. Peyton Manning – 2 Super Bowls
Statistically, one of the most dominant quarterbacks ever, Peyton Manning, retired with 71,940 passing yards and 539 touchdowns. He won two Super Bowls, one with the Indianapolis Colts and another with the Denver Broncos, proving his adaptability across teams. Manning’s five MVP awards, the most by any player, showcase why he belongs in the conversation of the greatest quarterbacks of all time. His pre-snap adjustments and football IQ were second to none.
4. John Elway – 2 Super Bowl
John Elway’s career is a story of persistence. After losing his first three Super Bowl appearances, he finally won back-to-back championships in 1997 and 1998. Elway’s strong arm and clutch comebacks, including “The Drive” against Cleveland, made him legendary. With over 51,000 passing yards and a Hall of Fame career, Elway ranks among the greatest quarterbacks of all time.
5. Roger Staubach – 2 Super Bowls
Known as “Captain America,” Roger Staubach led the Dallas Cowboys to two Super Bowl titles and was named MVP of Super Bowl VI. Despite only playing 11 seasons due to military service, Staubach made a significant impact, throwing for over 22,000 yards and 153 touchdowns. His leadership and success in big games secure him a spot among the greatest quarterbacks of all time.
6. Johnny Unitas – 1 Super Bowl, 3 Championships (Pre-Super Bowl Era)
Johnny Unitas was the quarterback who brought modern passing into the NFL spotlight. With one Super Bowl victory and three NFL championships before the merger, he dominated his era. Known for his record 47 consecutive games with a touchdown pass, Unitas was decades ahead of his time. His leadership and innovation still earn him a spot among the greatest quarterbacks of all time.
7. Brett Favre – 1 Super Bowl
Brett Favre was the NFL’s iron man, starting 297 consecutive games at quarterback. He retired as the all-time leader in passing yards (71,838) and touchdowns (508), though later surpassed by Brady and Brees. Favre won one Super Bowl and three MVPs, and his gunslinger mentality made him one of the most entertaining quarterbacks to watch. His durability and performance place him firmly in the conversation of the top quarterbacks of all time.
8. Drew Brees – 1 Super Bowl
Drew Brees may only have one Super Bowl victory, but his statistical dominance is undeniable. Retiring with over 80,000 passing yards, he held the record until Tom Brady surpassed him. Brees was the face of the New Orleans Saints, leading them to their only championship in franchise history. His consistency, accuracy, and leadership place him among the greatest quarterbacks of all time.
9. Aaron Rodgers – 1 Super Bowl
Aaron Rodgers rounds out the list with one Super Bowl victory and a reputation as one of the most efficient quarterbacks ever. With over 59,000 passing yards, more than 470 touchdowns, and four MVPs, Rodgers is known for his pinpoint accuracy and ability to extend plays. His consistency and highlight-reel throws make him one of the greatest quarterbacks of all time, even with just one championship.
10. Dan Marino – 0 Super Bowls
Dan Marino never won a Super Bowl, but his exceptional passing ability still ranks him among the top quarterbacks of all time. He retired with 61,361 yards and 420 touchdowns, both records at the time. His 1984 season, with 5,084 passing yards and 48 touchdowns, was legendary and ahead of its time by decades. Marino proved you don’t always need rings to be remembered as one of the best.
Legends of the Tracks!
From Brady’s unmatched Super Bowl tally to Marino’s record-setting arm, the quarterback position has produced legends who changed the sport forever. Each of these ten players contributed something unique, whether it was clutch comebacks, statistical dominance, or leadership in high-pressure situations. The greatest quarterbacks of all time are not just measured by championships but also by their ability to inspire teammates, thrill fans, and leave a lasting mark on the NFL.
