NFL Top 100 Players of All Time Part 6

In part five, we met the first wave of legendary quarterbacks who dominate the NFL’s All-Time Top 100 list. These masters of the gridiron, with their pinpoint accuracy, strategic brilliance, and clutch performances, left fans in awe and redefined the quarterback position.

The NFL’s All-Time Top 100 list isn’t just a collection of legendary names; it’s a pantheon of gridiron gods who redefined the game. But among these titans, one position reigns supreme – the quarterback. These signal-callers are the orchestrators, the maestros conducting symphony-like plays that leave fans breathless.

A few years ago, the NFL released its prestigious list. It was a media frenzy and stirred controversy and discussion as only the NFL can. For our list, we will consult the NFL’s choices but also use the power of the Stathead Football database and its Approximate Value and Fantasy rankings data to provide a top 100 of the NFL’s best players. With so many deserving players, crafting a list of the top 100 is a meticulous process. We’ll tackle it by position groups and in three separate posts. We’ll have a compelling 100 to discuss by the end, sparking lively conversations among NFL fans. We are entering the final leg to round out the top one hundred players who were chosen.

Unveiling the Final Chapter of the Top 100’s QB Dynasty

Now, we are preparing to close the curtain on this elite group. In this final installment, we delve into the remaining signal-callers who cemented their place among the all-time greats. From record-breaking statisticians to iconic leaders who embodied the spirit of their franchises, prepare to be reacquainted with these modern-day magicians who orchestrated victories and captivated audiences for generations.

So, gear up for one last exploration of the quarterbacks who not only shaped the NFL’s landscape but etched their names permanently in the sport’s hall of fame. Let’s celebrate their unmatched talent, unwavering dedication, and the unforgettable moments they gifted to the game we love. Their impact is not just a part of history but a source of inspiration for future generations.

Taking the Final Snaps on Our Journey

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Johnny U. revolutionized the NFL with his pinpoint passing and calm leadership. Drafted in 1955 by the Steelers, he didn’t make the team! However, a year later, he rose from obscurity to make the Colts roster and later led Baltimore to three NFL championships (1958, 1959, 1968) and a Super Bowl V Title. His “West Coast Offense” emphasized short, accurate throws, a stark contrast to the run-heavy era. Unitas shattered records, becoming the first quarterback to throw for 40,000 yards. Unitas’ impact extends beyond statistics. He inspired a generation of quarterbacks and ushered in a golden age of NFL passing, forever altering the game.

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“Automatic Otto” was a signal-caller extraordinaire; he was a synonym for winning in the National Football League (NFL). During his ten-year career with the Cleveland Browns (1946-1955), Graham established himself as a dominant force, leading the team to an unprecedented ten straight championship appearances with four seasons in the AAFC and the Browns moving to the more established NFL in 1950.

Before entering the NFL, Graham excelled as a running back in college. However, the Browns’ coach, Paul Brown, recognized his potential as a passer. Graham adapted brilliantly, becoming known for his pinpoint accuracy and calm demeanor under pressure. He led the league in passing yards on multiple occasions and still holds the NFL record for career average yards per pass attempt (8.63).

But statistics only tell part of the story. Graham’s leadership and clutch performances were instrumental in the Browns’ dynasty.  Some believed that Otto was almost mechanized for his consistent ability to deliver in high-pressure situations.  In the 1954 championship game, he showcased his all-around talent, throwing for three touchdowns and running for three more in a dominant victory.

Otto Graham retired at the peak of his powers, leaving an indelible mark on the game. His legacy extends beyond championships and records. He helped usher in a new era of the quarterback position, demonstrating the effectiveness of a more cerebral and precise approach to passing the football.  His story is a testament to the power of leadership, unwavering dedication, and the ability to adapt and excel in a changing game.

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Favre’s NFL career transcended statistics. He wasn’t just a prolific passer, accumulating over 71,000 yards and 508 touchdowns. Favre was an ironman, holding the record for most consecutive starts (297) until 2010. His gunslinger mentality, with its penchant for risky throws and clutch performances, captivated fans and frustrated opponents alike.

Favre led the Green Bay Packers to a dominant era, winning Super Bowl XXXI and earning three league MVP awards.  Brett started his NFL journey in Atlanta before the Packers, and later, he played with the Jets and then revitalized the Minnesota Vikings, proving he wasn’t a one-team wonder.  Favre’s competitive fire and emotional leadership resonated with fans, making him one of the most popular players of his generation.  While his career wasn’t without controversy, including a tumultuous retirement saga, Favre’s impact on the game is undeniable.  He redefined quarterback play, embraced the risk-reward dynamic, and cemented his legacy as one of the NFL’s all-time greats.

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Entering the league in 1983, Marino’s arrival coincided with a shift towards a more pass-heavy offense.  He lit up scoreboards with his incredible arm strength and pinpoint accuracy. By the time he retired in 1999, Marino had shattered numerous NFL passing records, including most career passing yards (since surpassed) and most touchdown passes (also surpassed).  He led the Dolphins to the playoffs in nine of his seventeen seasons, which was highlighted by a Super Bowl appearance in his rookie season. Despite falling short of the ultimate prize, Marino’s brilliance and contributions to the evolution of the quarterback position solidify him as one of the greatest signal-callers ever to grace the gridiron.

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“The Blonde Bomber,” had a wild ride throughout his career. Drafted first overall in 1970 by the Pittsburgh Steelers, Bradshaw’s raw talent took time to mature, being benched multiple times early on as part of a three-headed QB carousel with Terry Hanratty and Joe Gilliam. However, under the guidance of coach Chuck Noll, he blossomed into a dominant leader.

Bradshaw’s peak coincided with the rise of the legendary “Steel Curtain” defense and some brilliant Hall of Fame offensive teammates as well.  His leadership and clutch performances proved instrumental in the Steelers’ four Super Bowl victories (IX, X, XIII, XIV).  He was named Super Bowl MVP twice (XIII, XIV) for his composure and clutch throws in high-pressure situations.

Despite facing criticism for his accuracy at times, Bradshaw finished his career with a respectable record (107-63-1) and a completion percentage that improved steadily over his 14 seasons. Beyond statistics, his toughness and resilience became hallmarks of his playing style.

Following his retirement in 1983, Bradshaw transitioned to broadcasting, becoming a popular and entertaining sports analyst.  His legacy as a player is secure – a champion, a leader, and a key figure in one of football’s most dominant eras.

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Bart Starr’s legacy isn’t built on flamboyant stats but on quiet leadership and clutch performances. Drafted by the Green Bay Packers in 1956, Starr rose to become the face of Vince Lombardi’s dynasty. Despite not boasting staggering passing numbers, his intelligence and accuracy were perfectly suited to Lombardi’s run-heavy offense.

Starr’s true brilliance shone in the biggest moments. He led the Packers to five NFL championships (1961, 1962, 1965-1967) and victories in the first two Super Bowls, earning Super Bowl MVP honors in both. His calmness under pressure, particularly evident in the “Ice Bowl,” cemented his reputation as a clutch performer.

While overshadowed by statistically flashier quarterbacks, Starr’s impact is undeniable. He held NFL records for completion percentage and consecutive passes attempted without an interception when he retired. Beyond stats, his leadership and poise made him a cornerstone of a legendary era in Green Bay Packers history.

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“Broadway Joe,” wasn’t just a quarterback; he was a cultural icon. Drafted by both the AFL’s Jets and the NFL’s Cardinals in 1965, Namath chose the upstart AFL, becoming a cornerstone for the New York Jets. His charisma and swagger, coupled with his on-field talent, captivated fans in the Big Apple and across the Nation.

Namath’s impact was immediate. He led the AFL in passing yards twice and was a two-time MVP during his AFL years. But his legacy was cemented with a brash guarantee of victory in Super Bowl III, a game the AFL underdog Jets won against the heavily favored NFL champion Baltimore Colts.

While injuries hampered him later, Namath remained a star. He led the NFL in passing yards and touchdowns in 1972, proving his talent transcended leagues.  He retired in 1977 with over 27,000 passing yards and 173 touchdowns.

Namath’s influence extended beyond statistics. He helped legitimize the AFL and usher in the era of the “superstar” quarterback. His charisma and confidence redefined the way the position was perceived, paving the way for future generations of flamboyant signal callers. Today, Joe Namath remains a legend, a player whose impact transcended the gridiron and left an indelible mark on the history of football.

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Peyton Manning’s name is synonymous with brilliance and leadership. Drafted first overall in 1998, he transformed the Indianapolis Colts from perennial losers to a dominant force. His unmatched football IQ, pinpoint accuracy, and mastery of the no-huddle offense led him to five NFL MVP awards – a record he still holds. Manning orchestrated record-breaking passing seasons and playoff runs, culminating in a Super Bowl XLI victory against the Chicago Bears.

After a debilitating neck injury threatened his career, Manning defied the odds. He signed with the Denver Broncos, showcasing his trademark resilience and leading them to two Super Bowl appearances. In 2016, he capped off a legendary career by winning Super Bowl 50, becoming the first quarterback to win championships with two different franchises. Manning retired with a plethora of NFL records, including most passing yards and touchdowns, solidifying his place as one of the greatest quarterbacks – and offensive minds – the game has ever seen.

Conclusion to the Series

With the spotlight finally leaving the elite quarterbacks, we’ve completed our exploration of the NFL’s All-Time Top 100. This diverse group of players – the record-breaking running backs, the lockdown shutdown corners, the ferocious pass rushers – represents the very essence of football’s greatness. They were the game-changers, the defensive stalwarts, and the offensive catalysts who pushed the boundaries of what seemed possible on the gridiron.

This list serves as a testament to the evolution of the sport itself. From the bruisers of yesteryear to the athletic marvels of today, the Top 100 showcases the ever-changing landscape of football. It’s a reminder that greatness transcends eras and playing styles. Each player on this list, in their own unique way, captivated fans, inspired generations, and redefined their positions.

The NFL’s Top 100 isn’t just a list; it’s a conversation starter, a celebration of athletic prowess and unwavering dedication. It’s a reminder that the game of football thrives on the shoulders of these giants, the players who etched their names in history and whose legacies continue to inspire young athletes to dream big and chase gridiron glory.

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This entry was posted on Wednesday, July 3rd, 2024 at 5:00 pm and is filed under Top Lists. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. Both comments and pings are currently closed.