10 Best NFL Quarterbacks: Ranked by Career Winning Percentage
Winning in the NFL takes talent, strategy, and leadership. Among the best NFL quarterbacks, career winning percentage stands as the ultimate measure of consistency and poise under pressure. This ranking highlights the ten best NFL quarterbacks by career winning percentage (starting in 1950 and count
Winning in the NFL takes talent, strategy, and leadership. Among the best NFL quarterbacks, career winning percentage stands as the ultimate measure of consistency and poise under pressure. This ranking highlights the ten best NFL quarterbacks by career winning percentage (starting in 1950 and counting NFL games only).
10. John Elway: 148-82-1 (.643) Career Winning Percentage
Teams: Denver Broncos (1983-1998)
File ID 73982189 | © Gerald T. Coli | Dreamstime.com
John Elway's time with the Denver Broncos from 1983 to 1998 is an example of resilience and excellence. Selected first overall in the 1983 NFL Draft, Elway's combination of arm strength and mobility made him a formidable dual-threat quarterback.
Elway led the Broncos to five Super Bowl appearances, securing back-to-back championships in Super Bowl XXXII and XXXIII. Elway's leadership was epitomized in "The Drive," a 98-yard march against the Cleveland Browns in the 1986 AFC Championship Game, cementing his place as one of the game's greats. He concluded his career with 51,475 passing yards and 300 touchdowns.
Elway was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2004 and in 2019 was selected to the NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team as one of the 10 greatest quarterbacks in NFL history.
Read More:
9. Johnny Unitas: 118-63-4 (.649) Career Winning Percentage
Teams: Indianapolis (Baltimore) Colts (1956-1972), San Diego Chargers (1973)
Malcolm W.Emmons, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
Playing for the Baltimore Colts from 1956 to 1972, Johnny Unitas forever changed how the quarterback position was played. Before Unitas, offenses were built around the run; after him, the passing game became the centerpiece of professional football. Known for his unshakable poise, pinpoint accuracy, and unmatched leadership, Unitas was the prototype for the modern field general—and remains one of the best NFL quarterbacks of all time.
Unitas led the Colts to three NFL championships, including a victory in Super Bowl V, and earned three NFL MVP awards for his brilliance under pressure. His record of 47 consecutive games with a touchdown pass stood for over half a century, symbolizing not just skill but remarkable consistency. In an era when defenses ruled and passing lanes were scarce, he threw for more than 40,000 yards and 290 touchdowns, redefining offensive football.
Teammates and opponents alike marveled at his toughness—famously playing through injuries and rallying his team in clutch moments. His leadership in the huddle and command at the line of scrimmage became the model for future generations. Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1979, Unitas was later honored as one of the 10 greatest quarterbacks in league history when he was named to the NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team in 2019.
Simply put, Johnny Unitas wasn’t just ahead of his time—he helped create the standard by which the best NFL quarterbacks are still measured today. Unitas was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1979 and in 2019 was selected to the NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team as one of the 10 greatest quarterbacks in NFL history.
8. Ken Stabler: 103-54-1 (.655 Career Winning Percentage)
Teams: Oakland Raiders (1970-1979), Houston Oilers (1980-1981), New Orleans Saints (1982-1984)
File ID 42033487 | © Gerald T. Coli | Dreamstime.com
"The Snake," Ken Stabler is remembered as the very definition of cool under pressure. Stabler was the leader of the Oakland Raiders during their glory years in the 1970s, guiding them to a Super Bowl XI victory against the Minnesota Vikings. His ability to execute clutch plays earned him a reputation as one of the most reliable quarterbacks of his era.
Stabler’s career was defined by his knack for late-game heroics, such as the legendary "Sea of Hands" play and the "Ghost to the Post." A four-time Pro Bowler, he was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2016, posthumously taking his rightful place among the greats in NFL history. His leadership and gritty style made him a fan favorite and a true legend of the sport.
Stabler’s off-field personality made him a symbol of the Raiders’ rebellious and gritty identity, connecting with fans who admired his fearless approach to football and life.
Read More:
7. Steve Young: 117-45-0 (.657 Career Winning Percentage)
Teams: Tampa Bay Buccaneers (1985-1986), San Francisco 49ers (1987-1999)
ID 121058602 @ Gerald T. Coli | Dreamstime.com
Early in Steve Young’s career, few could have predicted he would become one of the best NFL quarterbacks of all time. After a rocky start with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Young found his stride with the San Francisco 49ers. Following four years as Joe Montana’s backup, he took over as the starting quarterback and thrived. Young’s rare dual-threat ability—excelling as both a precise passer and an agile runner—made him one of the most dynamic and efficient quarterbacks in NFL history.
Young won two NFL MVP awards (1992, 1994) and led the 49ers to a Super Bowl XXIX victory, where he threw a record six touchdown passes and was named the game’s MVP. His career passer rating of 96.8 was the best in NFL history at the time of his retirement. Known for his pinpoint accuracy and exceptional athleticism, Young was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2005.
6. Ben Roethlisberger: 165-81-1 (.674 Career Winning Percentage)
Team: Pittsburgh Steelers (2004-2021)
File ID 118259832 | © Mbr Images | Dreamstime.com
During his 18-year career, "Big Ben" Roethlisberger led the Pittsburgh Steelers to three AFC Championship wins and two Super Bowl victories (XL, XLIII). As a clutch performer, Roethlisberger flourished in crucial situations and was renowned for his resilience and ability to prolong plays.
In terms of throwing yards and touchdowns, Roethlisberger, a six-time Pro Bowler, is in the top 10 in NFL history. Throughout his career, his leadership and grit were important in keeping the Steelers a consistent competitor while he was the franchise quarterback. Roethlisberger’s combination of size, skill, and competitiveness solidified his place as one of the greatest quarterbacks of his generation.
Read More:
5. Terry Bradshaw: 107-51-0 (.677 Career Winning Percentage)
Teams: Pittsburgh Steelers (1970-1983)
File ID 121064688 | © Gerald T. Coli | Dreamstime.com
Terry Bradshaw was the heart and soul of the Pittsburgh Steelers during their dynasty in the 1970s. With four Super Bowl championships to his name, Bradshaw’s resume speaks for itself. He was named Super Bowl MVP twice and became known for his ability to perform in the biggest moments.
Bradshaw’s leadership was instrumental in turning the Steelers into a powerhouse. He was a three-time Pro Bowler and won the NFL MVP award in 1978. While his stats may not match today’s quarterbacks, his impact on the game is undeniable. Bradshaw’s charisma and toughness made him a beloved figure both on and off the field.
Beyond his accolades, Bradshaw’s enduring influence lies in his personality. As a broadcaster, he brought the same energy and passion to the booth that he displayed on the field, connecting with fans across generations. His unique blend of humor and insight has solidified his status as an NFL icon. Bradshaw was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1989.
4. Peyton Manning: 186-79-0 (.702 Career Winning Percentage)
Teams: Indianapolis Colts (1998-2011), Denver Broncos (2012-2015)
File ID 76343729 | © Gerald T. Coli | Dreamstime.com
Peyton Manning’s cerebral approach to the game revolutionized the quarterback position. Manning’s ability to read defenses and make pre-snap adjustments was unparalleled. A five-time NFL MVP, Manning set numerous records during his career, many that he still holds, including: the most NFL MVP awards with five, winning in 2003, 2004, 2008, 2009 and 2013; the most 4,000-yard passing seasons at 14; and the single-season passing touchdowns at 55.
Manning won Super Bowl XLI with the Colts, and Super Bowl 50 with the Broncos and played in four. His relentless work ethic and meticulous preparation made him one of the most respected players in NFL history. Manning was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2021 and in 2019 was selected to the NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team as one of the 10 greatest quarterbacks in NFL history.
3. Joe Montana: 117-47-0 (.713 Career Winning Percentage)
Teams: San Francisco 49ers (1979-1992), Kansas City Chiefs (1993-1994)
File ID 27965972 | © Gerald T. Coli | Dreamstime.com
Joe Montana’s nickname, "Joe Cool," perfectly sums up his calm demeanor and clutch performances. A four-time Super Bowl champion and three-time Super Bowl MVP, Montana was the face of the San Francisco 49ers dynasty in the 1980s. His pinpoint accuracy and ability to excel under pressure made him a living legend.
Montana’s game-winning drive in Super Bowl XXIII, culminating in a touchdown pass to John Taylor, was an example of what other teams could expect to happen to them in clutch situations. His career passer rating of 92.3 was remarkable for his era, and his legacy as one of the greatest quarterbacks in NFL history is unquestioned. Montana left a lasting impact on the game and was the perfect quarterback to master the West Coast Offense that has continued to influence how the NFL is played. Montana was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2000 and in 2019 was selected to the NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team as one of the 10 greatest quarterbacks in NFL history.
2. Roger Staubach: 85-29-0 (.746 Career Winning Percentage)
Teams: Dallas Cowboys (1969-1979)
File ID 41227799 | © Gerald T. Coli | Dreamstime.com
Roger Staubach, known as “Captain America,” was the unquestioned leader of the Dallas Cowboys during the 1970s and remains one of the best NFL quarterbacks ever to play the game. A two-time Super Bowl champion and the MVP of Super Bowl VI, Staubach epitomized excellence on and off the field. His remarkable ability to lead game-winning drives earned him the nickname “Captain Comeback” and cemented his legacy among the all-time greats.
Roger Staubach's NFL career was cut short due to his military service obligations before joining the Cowboys and multiple concussions. After graduating from the Naval Academy, he served in the U.S. Navy, including a Vietnam tour, delaying his NFL debut until 1969. Known for his aggressive playing style, repeated concussions ultimately led to his early retirement in 1979.
Staubach’s athleticism and poise made him a nightmare for defenses, and his leadership set the standard for future quarterbacks. A six-time Pro Bowler during his eight years as a starter, his career passer rating of 83.4 was the best in NFL history at the time of his retirement. Staubach was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2000 and in 2019 was selected to the NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team as one of the 10 greatest quarterbacks in NFL history.
1. Tom Brady: 251-82-0 (.754 Career Winning Percentage)
Teams: New England Patriots (2000-2019), Tampa Bay Buccaneers (2020-2022)
File ID 26129556 | © Joe Sohm | Dreamstime.com
Tom Brady’s career is the unquestionable standard for success in the NFL as a quarterback. With seven Super Bowl victories and five Super Bowl MVP awards, Brady’s resume is unmatched. His longevity and ability to perform at an elite level into his 40s are due to his work ethic and passion for the game.
Brady holds countless NFL records, including most career touchdown passes and passing yards. His leadership and ability to elevate those around him have been key to his unparalleled success. Whether it was leading the Patriots to a dynasty or guiding the Buccaneers to a Super Bowl win in his first season with the team, Brady’s impact on the game is immeasurable. He is widely regarded as the greatest quarterback of all time. His NFL career is one of reinvention, excellence, and sustained greatness. Brady will be eligible for induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2028 and in 2019 was selected to the NFL 100th Anniversary All-Time Team as one of the 10 greatest quarterbacks in NFL history.
Continue Exploring NFL Quarterback Rankings
- Best NFL Quarterbacks of the 1970s: Ranked by Winning Percentage
- Best NFL Quarterbacks of the 1980s: Ranked by Winning Percentage
- Best NFL Quarterbacks of the 1990s: Ranked by Winning Percentage
- Best NFL Quarterbacks of the 2000s (2000-2009): Ranked by Winning Percentage
- Best NFL Quarterbacks of the 2010s: Ranked by Winning Percentage
- 10 Best NFL Quarterbacks: Ranked by Career Winning Percentage
Comments ()