> ## Content Index > Fetch the complete content index at: https://www.profootballnerd.com/llms.txt > Use this file to discover other available public pages before exploring further. # Best NFL Quarterbacks of the 1980s: Ranked by Winning Percentage - URL: https://www.profootballnerd.com/top-nfl-quarterbacks-of-the-1980s-ranked-by-winning-percentage/ - Published: 2025-07-03T19:17:41.000Z - Updated: 2026-11-12T17:55:12.000Z - Description: The 1980s featured some of the most iconic quarterbacks in NFL history. From Joe Montana’s dynasty in San Francisco to Jim McMahon’s swagger in Chicago, we ranked the top 10 QBs of the decade by winning percentage — and the results might surprise you. - Author: Tim Graham - Tags: NFL Quarterbacks, best nfl quarterbacks of the 1980s, jim mcmahon 1985 bears quarterback, Joe Montana, nfl quarterbach win percentage 1980s, #Migrated-1793639088811, #wp, #wp-post, #Import 2026-11-02 09:04 The 1980s featured some of the most iconic quarterbacks in NFL history. From Joe Montana’s dynasty in San Francisco to Jim McMahon’s swagger in Chicago, we ranked the top 10 QBs of the decade by winning percentage — and the results might surprise you. --- ## 10\. Phil Simms 65-45-0 (.591) ***Team: New York Giants (1980–1989)*** ![Phil Simms, one of the best NFL quarterbacks of the 1980s, prepares to take the snap for the Giants, leading New York with grit and precision.](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/eb/c7ebacf6-d7a4-4828-b882-d331b80dd084/content/images/2026/11/dreamstime_m_74159990.webp) ID [74159990](https://www.dreamstime.com/editorial-image-phil-simms-new-york-giants-qb-image-taken-color-slide-image74159990?ref=profootballnerd.com) @ [Gerald T. Coli](https://www.dreamstime.com/wickedgood%5Finfo?ref=profootballnerd.com) | [Dreamstime.com](https://www.dreamstime.com/stock-photos?ref=profootballnerd.com) Phil Simms' career in the 1980s was a rollercoaster that included a MVP performance in Super Bowl XXI. The New York Giants quarterback battled injuries and competition early in the decade but ultimately proved to be a steady and clutch leader. His .591 winning percentage reflects the rocky start but belies his importance in transforming the Giants into a contender. Simms’ breakout came in the mid-80s under head coach Bill Parcells. In 1986, he delivered one of the best Super Bowl performances ever, going 22-of-25 with three touchdowns in a rout of the Broncos in Super Bowl XXI. While Simms was never the flashiest quarterback, his toughness, accuracy, and leadership made him the ideal fit for a physically dominant Giants team. --- ***Read More:*** [Top NFL Quarterbacks of the 1990s: Ranked by Win Percentage](https://www.profootballnerd.com/top-nfl-quarterbacks-of-the-1990s-ranked-by-win-percentage/) --- ## 9\. Dave Krieg 57-37-0 (.606) ***Team: Seattle Seahawks (1980–1989)*** ![Dave Krieg scans the field for the Seahawks, showcasing the poise and production that earned him a spot among the top NFL quarterbacks of the 1980s.](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/eb/c7ebacf6-d7a4-4828-b882-d331b80dd084/content/images/2026/11/dreamstime_m_74116929.webp) ID [74116929](https://www.dreamstime.com/editorial-stock-image-dave-krieg-seattle-seahawks-qb-image-taken-color-slide-image74116929?ref=profootballnerd.com) @ [Gerald T. Coli](https://www.dreamstime.com/wickedgood%5Finfo?ref=profootballnerd.com) | [Dreamstime.com](https://www.dreamstime.com/?ref=profootballnerd.com) Dave Krieg was the definition of a gritty winner. An undrafted quarterback out of Milton College, Krieg fought his way up the depth chart in Seattle and became the face of the franchise through much of the 1980s. Krieg led the Seahawks to multiple playoff appearances, including their first-ever postseason win in 1983 and a trip to the AFC Championship Game. Despite often being overlooked in quarterback discussions, his .606 winning percentage proves just how effective he was. With over 20 game-winning drives during the decade, Krieg regularly found ways to keep Seattle competitive even in the loaded AFC. --- ## 8\. Dan Marino 62-39-0 (.614) ***Team: Miami Dolphins (1983–1989)*** ![Dan Marino winds up to throw for the Dolphins, embodying the arm strength and quick release that defined him as one of the top QBs of the 1980s.](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/eb/c7ebacf6-d7a4-4828-b882-d331b80dd084/content/images/2026/11/dreamstime_m_74160270.webp) ID [74160270](https://www.dreamstime.com/editorial-image-dan-marino-miami-dolphins-hall-fame-qb-image-taken-color-slide-image74160270?ref=profootballnerd.com) @ [Gerald T. Coli](https://www.dreamstime.com/wickedgood%5Finfo?ref=profootballnerd.com) | [Dreamstime.com](https://www.dreamstime.com/?ref=profootballnerd.com) Dan Marino redefined what a quarterback could do with his arm — but even his .614 winning percentage might seem low considering his talent. From the moment he took over as the starter in 1983, Marino torched defenses with a quick release, big arm, and unmatched confidence. In 1984, Marino shattered records with 5,084 yards and 48 touchdowns — both unheard of numbers at the time. He led the Dolphins to the Super Bowl that season, though they fell to Joe Montana’s 49ers. Throughout the rest of the decade, Marino continued to produce at a Hall of Fame level, keeping the Dolphins in playoff contention despite a mediocre run game and defense. His lack of a ring may haunt debates, but Marino was as dominant as any QB in the '80s. His winning percentage reflects both his greatness and the limitations of the teams around him. Marino was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2005 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:*** [Best NFL Coaches Ranked by Most Consecutive Winning Seasons](https://www.profootballnerd.com/best-nfl-coaches-ranked-by-most-consecutive-winning-seasons/) --- ## 7\. Bernie Kosar 39-23-1 (.627) ***Team: Cleveland Browns (1985–1989)*** ![Bernie Kosar scans the field for the Cleveland Browns, showcasing the poise and precision that made him one of the top quarterbacks of the 1980s.](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/eb/c7ebacf6-d7a4-4828-b882-d331b80dd084/content/images/2026/11/dreamstime_m_74522422.webp) ID [74522422](https://www.dreamstime.com/editorial-photography-bernie-kosar-cleveland-browns-qb-image-taken-color-slide-image74522422?ref=profootballnerd.com) @ [Gerald T. Coli](https://www.dreamstime.com/wickedgood%5Finfo?ref=profootballnerd.com) | [Dreamstime.com](https://www.dreamstime.com/stock-photos?ref=profootballnerd.com) Bernie Kosar’s NFL career didn’t start until 1985, but in just five seasons, he racked up enough wins to make this list. Kosar was cerebral, accurate, and clutch — the perfect quarterback to lead the hard-nosed Cleveland Browns of the late '80s. With Kosar under center, the Browns reached the AFC Championship Game three times in four years. Though each ended in heartbreak — twice at the hands of John Elway’s Broncos — Kosar’s ability to consistently win and control games was unmatched in the AFC Central. Known for his unconventional throwing motion and uncanny field vision, Kosar was a master of late-game drives and third-down conversions. His .627 winning percentage is a testament to his ability to manage games and come through in the biggest moments. --- ## 6\. Joe Theismann 53-30-0 (.639) ***Team: Washington Redskins (1980–1985)*** ![Joe Theismann drops back to pass for Washington, a steady presence under center and one of the top quarterbacks leading the NFL in the 1980s.](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/eb/c7ebacf6-d7a4-4828-b882-d331b80dd084/content/images/2026/11/dreamstime_m_73982161.webp) ***ID [73982161](https://www.dreamstime.com/editorial-photo-joe-theismann-washington-redskins-qb-image-taken-color-slide-image73982161?ref=profootballnerd.com) @ [Gerald T. Coli](https://www.dreamstime.com/wickedgood%5Finfo?ref=profootballnerd.com) | [Dreamstime.com](https://www.dreamstime.com/?ref=profootballnerd.com)*** Joe Theismann led the Washington Redskins to some of their finest seasons in the early '80s before a devastating injury ended his career in 1985\. From 1982 to 1984, Theismann was one of the most consistent and efficient quarterbacks in the NFL. He guided the Redskins to back-to-back Super Bowl appearances, winning Super Bowl XVII and earning league MVP honors in 1983\. A fiery leader with a quick release and great mobility, Theismann helped Joe Gibbs build an offensive juggernaut in D.C. His .639 winning percentage across just six seasons in the decade demonstrates his dominance before his untimely career-ending injury — one of the most infamous in NFL history. Theismann’s legacy as a winner remains firmly intact. --- ***Read More:*** [Ranking Every NFL Team’s Best 10-Year Winning Percentage](https://www.profootballnerd.com/ranking-every-nfl-teams-best-10-year-winning-percentage/) --- ## 5\. Jim Plunkett 36-19-0 (.655) ***Team: Oakland Raiders (1980–1986)*** ![Jim Plunkett scans the field in icy conditions, leading the Raiders during a strong stretch that helped earn him a spot among the top QBs of the 1980s.](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/eb/c7ebacf6-d7a4-4828-b882-d331b80dd084/content/images/2026/11/dreamstime_m_73982021.webp) ID [73982021](https://www.dreamstime.com/editorial-photo-jim-plunkett-oakland-raiders-qb-image-taken-color-slide-image73982021?ref=profootballnerd.com) @ [Gerald T. Coli](https://www.dreamstime.com/wickedgood%5Finfo?ref=profootballnerd.com) | [Dreamstime.com](https://www.dreamstime.com/?ref=profootballnerd.com) Jim Plunkett’s story is one of redemption. After being written off in New England and San Francisco, he resurrected his career with the Raiders — and all he did was win. Plunkett posted a .655 winning percentage in the 1980s and captured two Super Bowl rings during the decade. In 1980, he took over midseason for the Raiders and led them to an improbable championship run, winning Super Bowl XV and earning MVP honors. Three years later, he guided the team to another Lombardi Trophy, making him one of just a few QBs with multiple Super Bowl wins. Plunkett was never about stats — he was about grit, leadership, and making plays when they mattered most. He’s often overlooked in historical conversations, but his win-loss record and clutch postseason performances cement his legacy among the best of the decade. --- ## 4\. John Elway 64-33-0 (.660) ***Team: Denver Broncos (1983–1989)*** ![John Elway winds up to throw in a classic 1980s matchup as the Denver Broncos' franchise quarterback leads his offense down the field.](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/eb/c7ebacf6-d7a4-4828-b882-d331b80dd084/content/images/2026/11/dreamstime_m_73982189.webp) ID [73982189](https://www.dreamstime.com/editorial-stock-image-john-elway-denver-broncos-qb-image-taken-color-slide-image73982189?ref=profootballnerd.com) @ [Gerald T. Coli](https://www.dreamstime.com/wickedgood%5Finfo?ref=profootballnerd.com) | [Dreamstime.com](https://www.dreamstime.com/stock-photos?ref=profootballnerd.com) John Elway was the prototype for the modern quarterback: strong arm, elite mobility, and a flair for the dramatic. His 64 wins in just seven seasons during the '80s speak to how quickly he established himself as one of the game’s elite. Elway led the Broncos to three Super Bowl appearances in the decade (1986, 1987, 1989), though they fell short each time. Despite the losses, his leadership and late-game heroics became legendary. Who can forget “The Drive” against Cleveland in the 1986 AFC Championship Game? Elway’s .660 winning percentage reflects not just his immense talent but his relentless will to win. Even without a ring in the '80s, he was always a threat to take over a game — and the opposing sideline knew it. 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. --- ## 3\. Danny White 61-30-0 (.670) ***Team: Dallas Cowboys (1980–1988)*** ![Danny White of the Dallas Cowboys prepares to throw during a game in the 1980s, showcasing the poise of one of the decade’s underrated quarterbacks.](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/eb/c7ebacf6-d7a4-4828-b882-d331b80dd084/content/images/2026/11/dreamstime_m_73756360.webp) ID [73756360](https://www.dreamstime.com/editorial-image-danny-white-dallas-cowboys-qb-image-taken-color-slide-image73756360?ref=profootballnerd.com) @ [Gerald T. Coli](https://www.dreamstime.com/wickedgood%5Finfo?ref=profootballnerd.com) | [Dreamstime.com](https://www.dreamstime.com/stock-photos?ref=profootballnerd.com) Replacing a legend is never easy, but Danny White stepped in for Roger Staubach and kept the Cowboys rolling. From 1980 to 1985, White led Dallas to the playoffs four times and reached the NFC Championship Game three straight times. Though the Cowboys couldn’t quite reach the Super Bowl during his tenure, White was a steady, smart, and productive leader who helped bridge eras in Dallas. His .670 winning percentage is proof that the Cowboys remained a top-tier team throughout the first half of the decade. Also serving as the team's punter early in his career, White was as tough and versatile as they come. While he never reached the popularity of Staubach or Aikman, his results on the field put him firmly among the '80s elite. --- ## 2\. Jim McMahon 50-22-0 (.694) ***Team: Chicago Bears (1982–1988)*** ![Jim McMahon scrambles outside the pocket for the Chicago Bears, embodying the grit and swagger that defined his play in the 1980s NFL quarterback rankings.](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/eb/c7ebacf6-d7a4-4828-b882-d331b80dd084/content/images/2026/11/dreamstime_m_73480125.webp) ID [73480125](https://www.dreamstime.com/editorial-image-jim-mcmahon-chicago-bears-qb-image-taken-color-slide-image73480125?ref=profootballnerd.com) @ [Gerald T. Coli](https://www.dreamstime.com/wickedgood%5Finfo?ref=profootballnerd.com) | [Dreamstime.com](https://www.dreamstime.com/stock-photos?ref=profootballnerd.com) Jim McMahon was more than just the quarterback of the 1985 Bears — he was their attitude. Often injured and always controversial, McMahon’s true talent was leading. And when he was on the field, Chicago didn’t lose often. With a .694 winning percentage, McMahon turned the Bears into perennial contenders. The 1985 squad went 15-1 in the regular season and steamrolled their way to a Super Bowl XX victory, with McMahon playing a critical role in keeping defenses honest. Though his individual numbers weren’t elite, McMahon’s leadership, swagger, and competitiveness made him invaluable. He was the spark plug for one of the greatest teams in NFL history and proved he could win ugly, win big, or win late. --- ## 1\. Joe Montana 86-37-0 (.699) ***Team: San Francisco 49ers (1980–1989)*** ![Joe Montana surveys the field during Super Bowl XXIII, epitomizing poise and precision as one of the top NFL quarterbacks of the 1980s.](https://storage.ghost.io/c/c7/eb/c7ebacf6-d7a4-4828-b882-d331b80dd084/content/images/2026/11/dreamstime_m_74160378.webp) ID [74160378](https://www.dreamstime.com/editorial-stock-photo-joe-montana-san-francisco-ers-qb-image-taken-color-slide-image74160378?ref=profootballnerd.com) @ [Gerald T. Coli](https://www.dreamstime.com/wickedgood%5Finfo?ref=profootballnerd.com) | [Dreamstime.com](https://www.dreamstime.com/?ref=profootballnerd.com) The best quarterback of the 1980s is never in doubt or debated. Joe Montana’s .699 winning percentage led all quarterbacks in the decade, but even that number doesn’t do justice to what he meant to the 49ers — and to football history. Montana won four Super Bowls in the decade (1981, 1984, 1988, 1989) and earned three Super Bowl MVPs. Known for his icy calm under pressure and pinpoint accuracy, Montana led the NFL’s first true West Coast offense to dynasty status. He orchestrated unforgettable moments like “The Catch” in the 1981 NFC Championship Game and a game-winning 92-yard drive in Super Bowl XXIII. He redefined clutch. He redefined cool. He redefined winning. 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. Joe Montana didn’t just dominate the '80s — he owned it. ## Continue Exploring NFL Quarterback Rankings - [Best NFL Quarterbacks of the 1970s: Ranked by Winning Percentage](https://www.profootballnerd.com/best-nfl-quarterbacks-1970s-ranked-winning-percentage/) - [Best NFL Quarterbacks of the 1980s: Ranked by Winning Percentage](https://www.profootballnerd.com/top-nfl-quarterbacks-of-the-1980s-ranked-by-winning-percentage/) - [Best NFL Quarterbacks of the 1990s: Ranked by Winning Percentage](https://www.profootballnerd.com/top-nfl-quarterbacks-of-the-1990s-ranked-by-win-percentage/) - [Best NFL Quarterbacks of the 2000s (2000-2009): Ranked by Winning Percentage](https://www.profootballnerd.com/best-nfl-quarterbacks-2000s-ranked-winning-percentage/) - [Best NFL Quarterbacks of the 2010s: Ranked by Winning Percentage](https://www.profootballnerd.com/best-nfl-quarterbacks-2010s-ranked-winning-percentage/) - [10 Best NFL Quarterbacks: Ranked by Career Winning Percentage](https://www.profootballnerd.com/nfl-quarterbacks-highest-career-winning-percentages/) [Browse All NFL Quarterback Rankings →](https://www.profootballnerd.com/nfl-quarterbacks/)