When we talk about the best NFL quarterbacks, we’re not just talking about players with great stats — we’re talking about legends whose influence shaped the very game itself. From humble beginnings to record-breaking careers, these six quarterbacks stand tall in football history. Let’s take a closer look at their journeys.
1. Tom Brady
It’s almost hard to believe that the greatest among the best NFL quarterbacks was once overlooked. Tom Brady grew up in San Mateo, California, idolizing Joe Montana. At the University of Michigan, he had to fight for playing time but led the team to an Orange Bowl victory in his senior year. Drafted 199th overall by the New England Patriots, Brady turned skepticism into motivation.
- College: University of Michigan
- Passing Yards: 89,214 (All-time NFL leader)
- Touchdowns: 649
- Super Bowl Wins: 7
- MVP Awards: 3
His incredible career included leading the Patriots to six Super Bowl titles and later winning another with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, proving why he tops almost every list of the best NFL quarterbacks.
2. Joe Montana
Before becoming synonymous with clutch performances, Joe Montana was a rising star at Notre Dame, where he led one of the greatest comebacks in Cotton Bowl history. Known for his cool demeanor, Montana was a third-round draft pick by the San Francisco 49ers.
- College: University of Notre Dame
- Passing Yards: 40,551
- Touchdowns: 273
- Super Bowl Wins: 4
- MVP Awards: 2
Montana’s ability to thrive under pressure, winning four Super Bowls without a single interception in any of them, secured his place as one of the absolute best NFL quarterbacks to ever lace up cleats.
3. Peyton Manning
Born into a football dynasty, Peyton Manning was destined for greatness. The son of former NFL quarterback Archie Manning, Peyton carved his own path at the University of Tennessee, setting multiple records and winning SEC Player of the Year honors.
- College: University of Tennessee
- Passing Yards: 71,940
- Touchdowns: 539
- Super Bowl Wins: 2
- MVP Awards: 5
Manning was drafted first overall by the Indianapolis Colts in 1998 and revolutionized the quarterback position with his mastery of pre-snap adjustments. His football IQ and record five MVP awards make him a permanent fixture among the best NFL quarterbacks.
4. Johnny Unitas
Johnny Unitas’ story is one of grit and determination. After a modest career at the University of Louisville, he was initially cut by the Pittsburgh Steelers and had to play semi-pro football just to keep his dreams alive.
- College: University of Louisville
- Passing Yards: 40,239
- Touchdowns: 290
- Championships: 3 NFL Titles
- MVP Awards: 3
Eventually picked up by the Baltimore Colts, Unitas would become a pioneer of the modern passing game. His leadership and groundbreaking performances firmly established him among the best NFL quarterbacks in history.
5. Dan Marino
Dan Marino’s journey to the NFL was filled with records and accolades from an early age. At the University of Pittsburgh, Marino showed off his cannon arm and field vision, earning All-American honors.
- College: University of Pittsburgh
- Passing Yards: 61,361
- Touchdowns: 420
- Super Bowl Appearances: 1
- MVP Awards: 1
Selected by the Miami Dolphins in the first round of the 1983 draft, Marino rewrote the NFL passing record books. Although he never won a Super Bowl, his pure passing ability keeps him firmly ranked among the best NFL quarterbacks.
6. Patrick Mahomes
Patrick Mahomes grew up surrounded by professional sports — his father was an MLB pitcher — but it was clear early on that football was his true calling. At Texas Tech, Mahomes put up staggering numbers despite a modest team record, impressing scouts with his arm strength and improvisational skills.
- College: Texas Tech University
- Passing Yards: 28,000+ (and rising)
- Touchdowns: 220+
- Super Bowl Wins: 3
- MVP Awards: 2
Drafted 10th overall by the Kansas City Chiefs, Mahomes has already built a Hall of Fame résumé in a few short years. His dynamic style and leadership at such a young age ensure he’ll be part of any conversation about the best NFL quarterbacks for decades to come.
When we think of the best NFL quarterbacks, it’s about more than just numbers — it’s about the impact, the resilience, and the moments that define football history. Each player on this list brought something unique to the game, and their legacies continue to inspire the next generation of stars.
