10. 2002 Tampa Bay Buccaneers

The 2002 Tampa Bay Buccaneers land at number 10 on our list. They were known for their stifling defense led by defensive coordinator Monte Kiffin. The Bucs held opponents to just 12.3 points per game during the regular season. Led by Warren Sapp and Derrick Brooks, they went on to win Super Bowl XXXVII, showcasing one of the most dominant defenses in NFL history.

Overall Record: 15-4

Super Bowl XXXVII Champion

9. 1991 Washington Redskins

Securing a spot among the all-time greats, the 1991 Washington Redskins come in at #9. Coached by Joe Gibbs and led by a potent offense featuring Mark Rypien and the “Posse” of wide receivers, the Redskins went 14-2 in the regular season and dominated in the playoffs, culminating in a Super Bowl XXVI victory. The team is often overlooked amongst the greats but is still one of the best NFL teams of all time.

Overall Record: 17-2

Super Bowl XXVI Champion

8. 1999 St. Louis Rams

The 1999 St. Louis Rams, under the leadership of head coach Dick Vermeil and quarterback Kurt Warner, introduced the NFL to the “Greatest Show on Turf.” The Rams’ high-flying offense, featuring Marshall Faulk, Isaac Bruce and Torry Holt, led them to a Super Bowl victory and a place among the greatest NFL teams of all time.

Overall Record: 16-3

Super Bowl XXXIV Champion

7. 1971 Dallas Cowboys

The 1971 Dallas Cowboys, coached by the legendary Tom Landry, earn their spot at number 7. This team featured the “Doomsday Defense” and was led by stars like Roger Staubach and Duane Thomas. The Cowboys won Super Bowl VI, marking the beginning of their dominance in the 1970s.

Overall Record: 14-3

Super Bowl VI Champion

6. 1992 Dallas Cowboys

The 1992 Dallas Cowboys, were led by head coach Jimmy Johnson and featured the iconic “Triplets”. Troy Aikman, Emmitt Smith, and Michael Irvin powered this unstoppable Cowboys offense. This memorable team clinched Super Bowl XXVII, marking the start of a dynasty.

Overall Record: 16-3

Super Bowl XXVII Champion

5. 1978 Pittsburgh Steelers

The 1978 Pittsburgh Steelers, the last of their four Super Bowl-winning teams in the ’70s, earned their spot at number 5. The Steel Curtain defense, featuring legends like Mean Joe Greene and Jack Lambert, powered the Steelers to victory in Super Bowl XIII.

Overall Record: 17-2

Super Bowl XIII Champion

4. 1984 San Francisco 49ers

The 1984 San Francisco 49ers, coached by the legendary Bill Walsh, showcased the brilliance of the West Coast Offense. Joe Montana, Jerry Rice, and a stellar supporting cast led the 49ers to a 15-1 regular-season record and a Super Bowl XIX victory, solidifying their place among the all-time greats.

Overall Record: 18-1

Super Bowl XIX Champion

3. 1985 Chicago Bears

The 1985 Chicago Bears, led by head coach Mike Ditka and a ferocious defense are hailed as one of the greatest teams of all time. Walter Payton, Jim McMahon, and the Bears dominated the regular season with a 15-1 record and stormed through the playoffs to win Super Bowl XX.

Overall Record: 18-1

Super Bowl XX Champion

2. 2007 New England Patriots

The 2nd spot goes to the 2007 New England Patriots, who finished the regular season with a flawless 16-0 record. Coached by Bill Belichick and led by Tom Brady, Randy Moss, and a dynamic offense, the Patriots came within one game of a perfect season. They ultimately fell short, losing in Super Bowl XLII to the New York Giants. That one blemish keeps them from the top spot in our top 10 list.

Overall Record: 18-1

1. 1972 Miami Dolphins

The 1972 Miami Dolphins, coached by Don Shula and quarterbacked by Bob Griese, accomplished a feat no other team has matched: a perfect season. They capped off this amazing feat with a Super Bowl VII victory. The Dolphins undefeated run secures their position as the best team in NFL history.

Overall Record: 17-0

Super Bowl VII Champion

If you enjoyed this list be sure to check out our 10 best Super Bowl games of all time.

The post Top 10 NFL Teams of all Time appeared first on Pro Football Mania.

10. Aaron Donald

The previously mentioned Aaron Donald is the prototypical modern defensive tackle. His combination of speed, strength, and technique is unmatched. In his 10 year career, Donald has accumulated numerous accolades, including three NFL Defensive Player of the Year awards. multiple All-Pro selections and a Super Bowl ring. Donald recently flirted with retirement but decided to continue his career in 2023.

*Career Stats:

322 solo tackles

105.5 sacks

165 TFL

9. Dan Hampton

Hall of Famer Dan Hampton spent his 12 year career with the Chicago Bears. Hampton was a 6x All Pro and 4x Pro Bowler. Nicknamed the “Danimal” he was a versatile defensive lineman who had multiple seasons with double digit sacks. Hampton was one of the key reasons that the Bears led the NFL in fewest rushing yards and touchdowns during his career there.

Career Stats:

82 sacks

10 fumble recoveries

8. Cortez Kennedy

Cortez Kennedy made a huge impact in the NFL and for the Seattle Seahawks. Despite playing on teams with limited success, Kennedy’s dominance at defensive tackle was second to none. He won the NFL Defensive Player of the Year award in 1992 and earned eight Pro Bowl selections during his Hall of Fame career.

Career Stats:

569 solo tackles

58 sacks

11 forced fumbles

7. Bob Lilly

Bob Lilly, known as “Mr. Cowboy,” was a staple of the Dallas Cowboys defense for 14 seasons. His combination of strength and agility was impressive for his era. Lilly earned 11 Pro Bowl selections and was the first defensive tackle to win the NFL Defensive Player of the Year award. He is a Hall of Famer and also a Super Bowl champion.

Career Stats:

95.5 sacks

18 fumble recoveries

6. Reggie White

Reggie White was a transcendent talent who could dominate from multiple positions along the defensive line. While he is often associated with defensive end play, White’s versatility allowed him to excel as a tackle as well. With two NFL Defensive Player of the Year awards and a Super Bowl victory, White’s impact on and off the field is still felt to this day.

Career Stats:

198 sacks

175 solo tackles

5. Merlin Olsen

Hall of Famer Merlin Olsen was known as a gentle giant off the field and a destructive force on it. A stalwart for the Los Angeles Rams Fearsome Foursome, Olsen’s combination of size, strength, and agility made him a dominant force. He earned 14 Pro Bowl selections and 5 All Pro selections.

Career Stats:

91 sacks

9 fumble recoveries

4. John Randle

John Randle‘s journey from undrafted rookie to Hall of Famer is the stuff of legends. His fiery personality and relentless motor made him a disruptive force for the Minnesota Vikings and Seattle Seahawks. Randle, an eight-time Pro Bowler, recorded double-digit sacks in six seasons.

Career Stats:

137.5 sacks

277 solo tackles

40 TFLs

3. Alan Page

Alan Page was not only a defensive tackle but also a legal scholar and judge off the field during his Hall of Fame career. On it, his menacing play set him apart at the position. A member of the famed Purple People Eaters, Page combined strength, agility, and a deep understanding of the game to garner nine Pro Bowl selections and an NFL MVP award.

Career Stats:

148.5 sacks

23 fumble recoveries

2. Warren Sapp

Warren Sapp brought a new era of athleticism to the defensive tackle position. His quickness off the line and pass-rushing finesse redefined the role. With seven Pro Bowl selections and a Super Bowl victory, Sapp remains one of the most dominant defensive tackles of the modern era. Off the field he continues to mentor the next great defensive linemen and is currently the working with Deion Sanders at the University of Colorado.

Career Stats:

96.5 sacks

440 solo tackles

138 TFLs

1. Mean Joe Greene

Joe Greene, famously known as “Mean Joe,” tops our list as the best defensive tackle of all time. His ferocious play for the Pittsburgh Steelers Steel Curtain defense set the gold standard for defensive tackles going forward. Greene’s relentless pursuit of quarterbacks and ability to stuff running backs earned him four Super Bowl rings and two NFL Defensive Player of the Year awards.

Career Stats:

77.5 sacks

16 fumble recoveries

*= Active NFL player

The post Top 10 Defensive Tackles of All Time appeared first on Pro Football Mania.

10. Von Miller

Von Miller is the only active NFL player to make this list. Miller is a 2x Super Bowl champion, 3x All-Pro, Super Bowl MVP and 8x Pro Bowler. He is a nightmare for opposing offenses with his ability to quickly shed would-be blockers and attack the quarterback. At age 34, Miller is showing no signs of slowing down as he finished the 2022 season with 8 sacks.

*Career Stats:

123.5 sacks

431 solo tackles

27 forced fumbles

9. James Harrison

James Harrison‘s journey to becoming an elite outside linebacker is a testament to his perseverance. Undrafted and underestimated, Harrison’s work ethic and desire to win propelled him to become a 2x Super Bowl champion. He also had one of the most iconic plays in NFL history, his 100-yard interception return for a touchdown in Super Bowl XLIII.

Career Stats:

84.5 sacks

583 solo tackles

34 forced fumbles

8. Rickey Jackson

Rickey Jackson may not have sought the spotlight, but his on-field performance spoke volumes. Jackson was a crucial part of the New Orleans Saints famed “Dome Patrol” linebacking corps. His ability to disrupt plays and create turnovers helped pave the way for the Saints defensive success. He is a 1x Super Bowl champ and Hall of Famer.

Career Stats:

136 sacks

1173 solo tackles

40 forced fumbles

7. Kevin Greene

Kevin Greene‘s relentless pursuit of quarterbacks made him one of the most feared pass rushers in NFL history. The former Pittsburgh Steeler had 160 sacks over his 15-year career. Greene’s explosive first step and tenacious spirit earned him the 1996 Defensive Player of the Year award. His ability to disrupt plays and force turnovers remains legendary.

Career Stats:

160 sacks

669 solo tackles

23 forced fumbles

6. DeMarcus Ware

DeMarcus Ware‘s combination of speed and power made him a nightmare for offensive linemen. His proficiency in both rushing the passer and defending against the run solidified his reputation as one of the best to ever do it. With nine seasons of double-digit sacks, Ware’s impact on the Dallas Cowboys and later the Denver Broncos was indisputable.

Career Stats:

138.5 sacks

505 solo tackles

35 forced fumbles

5. Ted Hendricks

At 6’7″, Ted Hendricks was a mountain of a man at the outside linebacker position. His exceptional wingspan allowed him to swat down passes and disrupt opposing offenses in ways no other linebacker could. A Hall of Famer and a key figure in the dominant Raiders defenses of the 70s. Hendricks was a 4x Super Bowl champ and 4x All-Pro.

Career Stats:

61 sacks

4. Junior Seau

The late great Junior Seau‘s passion for the game was unmatched. His boundless energy and tenacity made him a tackling machine at the outside linebacker position. With an uncanny ability to diagnose plays and a knack for delivering bone-crushing hits, Seau earned 12 Pro Bowl selections and remains an NFL icon.

Career Stats:

56.5 sacks

1522 solo tackles

11 forced fumbles

3. Jack Ham

Jack Ham was a key component of the Pittsburgh Steelers Steel Curtain defense. Ham’s intelligence on the field allowed him to read plays, intercept passes, and neutralize tight ends with ease. Ham was no doubt one of the best coverage outside linebackers we have seen in the NFL. He was a 4x Super Bowl champ and 6x All-Pro.

Career Stats:

25.5 sacks

32 interceptions

2. Derrick Thomas

Derrick Thomas was a force to be reckoned with. Armed with an unparalleled ability to sack quarterbacks, he holds the record for the most sacks in a single game at 7. His speed off the edge and his uncanny knack for creating turnovers made him a nightmare for opposing offenses and a cornerstone of the Kansas City Chiefs defense.

Career Stats:

126.5 sacks

599 solo tackles

41 forced fumbles

1. Lawrence Taylor

Regarded by many as the prototypical outside linebacker, Lawrence Taylor‘s impact on the NFL is immeasurable. With lightning-fast speed and a ferocious playing style, Taylor redefined the position by becoming a dual threat against both the run and the pass. His ability to disrupt quarterbacks and change the course of a game earned him 3 Defensive Player of the Year awards. Taylor was 8x All-Pro and 2x Super Bowl champion.

Career Stats:

126.5 sacks

599 solo tackles

41 forced fumbles

* = Active NFL player

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This past offseason the top 3 running backs available were all franchise tagged. In addition, Chargers running back Austin Ekeler is also not happy about his current contract situation. If it wasn’t for a recent boost in incentives, Ekeler may have been traded. It’s important to point out these details as the real value of running backs has been debated in recent years. One thing you can’t debate is that the players below all play a critical role in their teams’ success. Let’s now look closer at the top 10 running backs in the NFL today.

10. Alvin Kamara

Alvin Kamara had a bit of a down year that we weren’t accustomed to seeing in 2022. In fact, the entire Saints offense took a step back last year and struggled to find an identity. New Orleans hopes the new addition of Derek Carr will help solve their offensive woes and help them take a step forward. Carr will open up the field again for Kamara and the running back should bounce back. Health and off-the-field issues will be a concern for Kamara but as of now, it looks like he won’t be suspended.

2022 Stats: 1,387 all purpose yards | 4 total touchdowns

9. Joe Mixon

When healthy, Joe Mixon has put up consistent numbers throughout his career with the Cincinnati Bengals. Mixon is a true three-down back in one of the league’s best offenses. In 2023, he will have the backfield all to himself as Samaje Perine is now with the Broncos. You can expect another Pro Bowl caliber year from Mixon and plenty of opportunities to score.

2022 Stats: 1,255 all purpose yards | 9 total touchdowns

8. Tony Pollard

When the Dallas Cowboys released Ezekiel Elliott this offseason it signaled a changing of the guard. They were now confident enough to let Tony Pollard be the feature back. Pollard has all the tools of a modern NFL running back. He will now get the chance to showcase those skills for Dallas. The only concern with Pollard is durability. Can he handle the full-time workload?

2022 Stats: 1,378 all purpose yards | 12 total touchdowns

7. Aaron Jones

For most of his career in Green Bay, Aaron Jones has had competition in the Packers backfield. That really hasn’t mattered as Jones has put up numbers regardless. Jones has always been a threat in the receiving game and in 2022 had 5 receiving touchdowns. Now with Aaron Rodgers out of the picture, Jones will be relied on more than ever.

2022 Stats: 1,516 all purpose yards | 7 total touchdowns

6. Saquon Barkley

The aforementioned Saquon Barkley will be playing with a chip on his shoulder next season. For what it’s worth, the Giants should’ve franchise tagged Daniel Jones and paid Barkley his due. It’s now unlikely that the two sides will agree on a new deal before the start of the season. The off-the-field noise won’t slow down Barkley’s production in 2023.

2022 Stats: 1,650 all purpose yards | 10 total touchdowns

5. Nick Chubb

Since his rookie season, Nick Chubb has rushed for 1000+ yards each year he has been in the league. Chubb has always been an old school type of running back who can carry the heavy load. He had 302 rushing attempts last season and is showing no signs of slowing down.

2002 Stats: 1,764 all purpose yards | 13 total touchdowns

4. Derrick Henry

Like Chubb, Derrick Henry is a between the tackles type of runner with breakaway speed. There were rumors this offseason that the Titans might try and trade Henry. Those rumors turned out to be false as Henry looks poised for another big year. No matter who the quarterback is for the Titans, Henry will be the focal point of this offense for the foreseeable future.

2022 Stats: 1,936 all purpose yards | 13 total touchdowns

3. Austin Ekeler

Austin Ekeler is one of the most versatile running backs in the NFL today. Line him up anywhere on the field and Ekeler will deliver. As we mentioned before this is likely Ekeler’s last season for the Chargers due to the contract situation. If he hits free agency expect a big payday for Ekeler.

2022 Stats: 1,637 all purpose yards | 18 total touchdowns

2. Josh Jacobs

Despite being franchise tagged this offseason, Josh Jacobs has been business as usual. Jacobs is a true professional who lets his game speak for itself. In 2022, Jacobs led the league in rushing yards, all purpose yards, yards per game and total touches. Even with a change at quarterback for the Raiders you can expect the gameplan to be the same. Keep feeding Jacobs.

2022 Stats: 2,053 all purpose yards | 12 total touchdowns

1. Christian McCaffrey

When Christian McCaffrey was traded to the San Francisco 49ers this past season it was a bit surprising. Kyle Shanahan has always deployed a running back by committee offensive system. By bringing in McCaffrey he knew he would have to rely heavily on his new star. The trade paid off as the 49ers were just 1 game away from the Super Bowl despite questions at quarterback. Now with a full offseason under his belt, McCaffrey is set for a monster year in San Francisco.

2022 Stats: 1,880 all purpose yards | 13 total touchdowns

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Coaching, one of the most overlooked points of team success to this day. A good coach can take a decent team and make it great, the same way a bad coach can take a great team and make it bad. While the head coaches of the world get at least a good amount of recognition, the coordinators and position coaches get little to no recognition otherwise. We have spoken previously about the top 10 defensive coordinators to coach in the NFL, so now, let us go to the other side and speak on who are the best to ever be an offensive coordinator.

It is first worth noting that we will be following the same format as last time in these rankings. This is based specifically on their tenure as an offensive coordinator, not as a head coach or otherwise. So while a coach such as Kyle Shanahan could make this list, it would be due to his time as an OC, not due to his current tenure as a head coach. So without further ado, let us begin with #10:

10. Kevin Gilbride – Offensive Coach for 22 seasons

Many people forget how exceptional of an offensive coach Kevin Gilbride was back in the 80s and 90s. He started off his career as a quarterbacks coach with the Houston Oilers, working with Warren Moon, and in their first season together Moon had 3,600+ passing yards and 23 touchdowns. After that, he would be named the offensive coordinator, and every year under his coaching they would finished top five in scoring.

He would go on to have a couple unsuccessful stints around the league, before landing with the team he is most well known for nowadays in the New York Giants. He started off as their quarterbacks coach from 2004-2006, working with Eli Manning before moving up to the offensive coordinator position. This first season at OC led to the largest moment of his career, where the Giants went 10-6, working their way through the playoffs including against one of the prime Green Bay Packers teams to make it to the Super Bowl. They would go on to win 17-14 against the undefeated New England Patriots, shocking the world and creating one of the biggest upsets in history. Gilbride would coach from 2006-2013 with the Giants as the OC, and four of those seasons the team would score 400+ points, signifying offensive success at least.

9. Greg Roman – Offensive Coach for 25 seasons

This one is a tough addition, but frankly, a deserving one overall. Greg Roman is known for two stints in his career primarily, those being with the San Francisco 49ers as OC from 2011-2014, and with the Baltimore Ravens as an assistant & an OC from 2018-2022. The primary reason Roman is on this list was his ability to truly utilize the tight end and quarterback positions to the best of his abilities.

In San Francisco, he was able to draw quality play out of Alex Smith and Colin Kaepernick to bring the team to three straight NFC Championships. Despite this being somewhat common with Kyle Shanahan now, getting success out of Jimmy Garoppolo and Brock Purdy, Roman was somewhat of the early version of that, being able to get the best out of his quarterbacks on the field. He employed a multi-TE system that was seen in San Francisco alongside a strong rushing attack, but then even moreso in Baltimore with many tight ends coming in their doors that were used correctly. Mark Andrews, Hayden Hurst, Nick Boyle, and more are included in that group. Roman was also crucial in the development of Lamar Jackson, creating the ability for Lamar to not just be a rusher, but also a quality passer.

8. Mike Martz – Offensive Coach for 13 seasons

The greatest show on turf. It does not get much more influential than that, creating one of the most dynamic and successful offenses in NFL history and scheming it so that all the great players could coexist is something special. This offense scored a whopping 526 points, fourth at the time in NFL history, and truly was a special season.

Rams’ head coach Dick Vermeil had the following to say about Martz, which really emphasizes how crucial he was:

“I can’t think, in my history of coaching, of any assistant who came into an NFL franchise and made the immediate impact that Mike Martz did.”

Vermeil would go on to say, “Kurt Warner came off the street, and he (Martz) made him NFL player of the year…I have great respect for him, and I think he has great respect for me. We took a team to the Super Bowl. Without him we don’t go.”

A head coach stating that if his OC was not on the team, then they would not have gone to the Super Bowl, is the greatest respect you can receive as a coordinator. It is absolutely well deserved for this one season alone. Martz would also go on to OC in Detroit, where he would coach Jon Kitna to his first 4,000 yard season at the age of 34.

7. Dan Henning – Offensive Coach for 22 seasons

Dan Henning is one of the longer tenured coaches in history, as a coordinator/offensive coach for 22 seasons and 32 seasons including his head coaching tenure. His most notable endeavor is with the Carolina Panthers from 2002-2006 however. Henning can be seen as a large part of the reason as to why Jake Delhomme was able to come into his own and succeed to the point where the Panthers would make the Super Bowl in 2003. The Panthers scored 325 points that season, and truly looked to be a quality unit overall.

The most notable moment of his career was his ability to help the Panthers put up 19 points in the fourth quarter of that Super Bowl to be able to keep up with the Patriots. While they did lose that game on a walk-off field goal from Adam Vinatieri, the fact that they were able to keep up with one of the most successful teams in football history was truly impressive nonetheless. He would also lead the Panthers to the NFC Championship Game in 2005, after putting up 23 points against the Giants in the Wild Card Round and 29 points on a stout Chicago Bears defense in the Divisional Round. While they did not ever win the big game with Henning, the success seen during his tenure, and the ability to develop Delhomme into a quality QB, is impressive.

6. Josh McDaniels – Offensive Coach for 16 seasons

Success is success, even if Bill Belichick and Tom Brady are the core pieces known for that success. McDaniels is a hard offensive coordinator to grade, as he was obviously crucial for the six super bowl wins he was a part of. However, he was also overshadowed on offense by the minds of Tom and Bill, who had a ton to do with offensive playcalling as well.

A nice median places Josh at 6th place. Working up from being a personnel assistant to being an offensive coordinator of one of the best offenses the league has seen is absolutely impressive, no doubt. The most obvious display of his talents in my opinion comes from two time periods, one of which was over the course of a season, and the other one singular game. Firstly, the 2008 season, where despite Tom Brady being injured in week 1, and missing all of the remaining season and postseason, McDaniels helped lead the Patriots to an 11-5 record with Matt Cassel. This was a playoff team in every sense except the technicality that got Miami into the playoffs over them, which was better conference record (8-4 to 7-5).

The other experience is the obvious one, 28-3. McDaniels helped lead the greatest playoff comeback we have ever seen, and up until recently the best comeback ever seen in the NFL. The Patriots would go into halftime down 21-63 and even were down 28-9 after three quarters. But then they would pull off the unthinkable, putting up 19 points in the 4th and shutting out Atlanta, going into overtime and scoring the game winning touchdown, ending it 34-28. Josh had a major part in that, and should receive credit for that fact.

5. Bill Walsh – Offensive Coach for 10 seasons

Bill Walsh makes this list for the opposite reasons of Josh McDaniels, those being contributions to the game via scheme building and capabilities to develop an offense around a quarterback with limitations. Bill Walsh, before his successful head coaching stint with the 49ers, was an even more influential offensive coordinator with the Cincinnati Bengals. Walsh worked under legendary coordinator/head coach Paul Brown, who we will mention later.

With this, Walsh came into an offense with Cincinnati’s new starting QB Virgil Carter, who was exceptionally mobile and a good short range passer, but did not have the arm strength to move the ball down the field. This led Walsh to create a modified offensive scheme, now known as the West Coast offense, a primary component of his success with the 49ers later. But this scheme relied heavily on short range horizontal passing, rather than long range vertical passing.

This allowed Virgil Carter to lead the league in completion percentage the following season (1971 – 62.2%) which despite being low by today’s standards, was extremely high for the time period. Walsh also helped create the successful scheme for Ken Anderson and Isaac Curtis. Overall, his time as a coordinator specifically was heavily influential for the NFL, as he single handedly changed how a QB could play the game of football forever.

4. Paul Brown – Offensive Coach for 25 seasons

Speaking of Paul Brown, let us delve into his career as well. This is a hard dignification to place on Paul Brown, as coordinators were not necessarily a thing back when he first began coaching in the 1940s. However, I believe it is crucial to place him on a list such as this, even if he is not specifically labeled as a coordinator. His ability to coach an offense, and his influence to the game of football, is unprecedented, and needs to be recognized. With that said, let us make the one exception due to the lack of clarity on actual coaching positions back in the 40s onwards.

Paul Brown was most well known for his 17 year tenure as a coach for the Cleveland Browns, and many different additions to the game of football. He was the first coach to ever hire a full team of assistant coaches, to use game film to scout opponents, and to test players on their playbook knowledge. Paul invented the “draw”, a form of offensive play in which a run is disguised as a pass, which is still used extensively in today’s offenses. He also helped to create the modern face mask, the practice squad, and played a crucial role in breaking the NFL’s color barrier.

The accolades roll in as well, 3x NFL champion, AP NFL coach of the year, Ring of Honor for both the Browns and Bengals, 213-104-9 record as a coach, and various other honors from UPI and Sporting News. While he was not necessarily liked by his players due to his strict nature of coaching, he truly modernized the game of football, and made offense what it is today with the draw.

3. Ted Marchibroda – Offensive Coach for 24 years

Ted Marchibroda is another intriguing one in terms of where his success lies, as he is most well known for his head coaching tenure with the Indianapolis Colts. However, he was an offensive coordinator or positional coach for 24 years outside that, and created some of the most influential offensive developments in league history.

Most of his developments came with the Buffalo Bills, where he would spend 4 seasons with head coach Marv Levy. Marchibroda was crucial in the development of the hurry-up offense, where with QB Jim Kelly, the offense would rush up to the line of scrimmage and minimize the time the defense had to make adjustments. This forced the league to create a rule allowing time for substitutions shortly thereafter.

The exact form the Bills used was called the “K-Gun offense”, which was extremely quick and prided itself in the ability to audible and get the ball out fast. In 3/4 of his seasons with Buffalo, they would make the playoffs, and in the last of them, they would make the Super Bowl, falling to the New York Giants. Despite a lack of direct success in the form of Super Bowls, his contributions to the game are amazing regardless, and were truly huge in how 2-minute drills are handled today.

2. Todd Haley – Offensive Coach for 19 seasons

Todd Haley is no doubt one of the most overlooked coordinators of all time, and was crucial to a few different teams and their success long term. He first off was crucial in the development of Tony Romo, and scheming that offense around their receivers who at the time were Terrell Owens and Terry Glenn. Haley was critical to the success of that Cowboys offense at the time, from 2004-2006.

His next tenure was his most notable however. He would join the coaching staff of Ken Whisenhunt, and would be part of the offensive staff that led the Cardinals to be near the top of the league in quite a few offensive categories. They were 4th in points for (427), 4th in yards (5,852), 6th in first downs (328), 1st in passes completed (418), 3rd in completion percentage (66.3%), 3rd in quarterback rating (96.1), and 3rd in receiving touchdowns (31). This was one of the more dominant passing offenses of all time, and that mainly came because Haley was able to get Kurt Warner back into form and resurrect his career in a sense.

Despite never winning a Super Bowl, he was a part of the 2008 Cardinals that nearly knocked off one of the most dominant renditions of the Pittsburgh Steelers we had ever seen, and scored 23 points against them in the game. He would go on to coach a couple other quality offenses, most notably the Pittsburgh Steelers from 2012-2017.

1. Norv Turner – Offensive Coach for 20 seasons

Number one is one of the most influential offensive figures in football to date, learning from one of the greatest to do it, that being Jimmy Johnson. Norv was the offensive coordinator to both of Dallas’ back to back ’92-’93 Super Bowls, and was enormous in the ability to win those. Norv was a large reason as to why Troy Aikman developed into who he became, as he was able to scheme the offense to the strengths of Aikman’s game, and make the Cowboys truly dominant on that side of the ball.

In terms of development, he was also a great developmental factor in the game of all-time leading rusher Emmitt Smith. Smith would lead the league all three of the seasons Norv Turner was with Dallas, this was the first time the team with the leading rusher had ever won the Super Bowl. It happened twice under Norv. On top of that, when Emmitt ran for 100+ yards while Norv was on the team, the Cowboys were 21-1 in the regular season and 5-0 in the playoffs.

The third part of the offense was Michael Irvin, who never finished below 2nd in the NFL in receiving yards while Turner was on the staff.

When he came into Dallas, the Cowboys had the worst offense in terms of total yards (255.1 YPG) and points per game (15.2 PPG). By the end of his first season, 1991, the Cowboys were 9th in total yards per game (318.8 YPG) and scoring (21.4 PPG). They would then go up even further in 1992, as signified by their success, with 350.9 yards per game and 23.5 PPG (4th in both).

During his Dallas tenure alone, he saw 2 division title wins, 2 NFC Championships, 3 rushing titles, 1 MVP, and 2 Super Bowl victories, in three seasons.

Norv had influence, success, capability, and longevity, going on to coordinate for the Chargers, Dolphins, 49ers, Browns, Vikings, and Panthers in the remainder of his career. But Dallas will always be something enormously special, and he was able to combine all the components you look for in a coordinator to be the best on this list.

The post Top 10 Offensive Coordinators of All Time appeared first on Pro Football Mania.

10. John Madden: More Than a Game

John Madden, the legendary icon had arguably the largest impact on the NFL than any coach in history. Not only did he boast a stout .759 winning percentage he also was a legend in the broadcast booth. On top of his accolades, many in today’s world recognize him as the face of the most popular football video game. Make no mistake, John Madden’s impact has him worthy of making this list.

• Career Winning Percentage: .759

9. Bill Parcells: The Big Tuna’s Impact 

Bill Parcells, known as “The Big Tuna,” left a long-lasting impact on multiple franchises during his coaching career. With two Super Bowl victories and a reputation for turning struggling teams into contenders, Parcells’ emphasis on building a strong foundation and maximizing player potential solidified his status as a coaching legend. 

• Career Winning Percentage: .569

8. Joe Gibbs: Three Super Bowl Triumphs 

Joe Gibbs, the esteemed head coach of the Washington Redskins, guided his team to three Super Bowl victories. Gibbs had the ability to adapt to different personnel while he emphasized strong team unity. There was no one more loyal to his franchise than Gibbs. He went on to coach the team for a second stint from 2004-2007.

• Career Winning Percentage: .621

7. Tom Landry: The Mastermind of the Flex Defense 

Tom Landry, the legendary coach of the Dallas Cowboys, revolutionized defensive strategy with the introduction of the Flex Defense. He also created the 4-3 defense which has become a standard in today’s NFL. Landry’s innovative formations and calm demeanor on the sidelines made him one of the most respected figures in the game. 

• Career Winning Percentage: .607

6. Paul Brown: The Innovator

Paul Brown, an unparalleled innovator, left his mark on football as both a coach and an executive. Brown was the first Head Coach in history to study game film and test his players on the playbook. Brown’s groundbreaking contributions to the passing game, unwavering attention to detail, and emphasis on fundamentals paved the way for future generations of coaches.

• Career Winning Percentage: .672

5. Chuck Noll: The Builder of Dynasties 

Chuck Noll, the legendary coach of the Pittsburgh Steelers, crafted a dynasty that dominated the NFL throughout the 1970s. Garnering four Super Bowl victories, Noll instilled a culture of resilience and discipline, while building one of the best dynasties in football history. Noll built his teams through the draft and insisted on developing his players. A system the Steelers continue to utilize to this day.

• Career Winning Percentage: .566

4. Bill Walsh: Architect of the West Coast Offense 

Bill Walsh, a true visionary, transformed the landscape of offensive football. As the mastermind behind the San Francisco 49ers, Walsh orchestrated three Super Bowl victories and popularized the West Coast Offense. This system is still used today by many NFL teams with great success.

• Career Winning Percentage: .609

3. Don Shula: The Epitome of Consistency 

Don Shula’s extraordinary career spanned over three decades while he left his imprint on the NFL. As the winningest coach in league history (328), Shula’s unwavering dedication to preparation and consistency propelled the Miami Dolphins to unprecedented success. The Dolphins are of course still the only team to complete a perfect season. 

• Career Winning Percentage: .677

2. Bill Belichick: The Maestro of Strategy 

Bill Belichick, the great mastermind behind the New England Patriots dynasty, is widely regarded as the greatest strategic genius in NFL history. Already the winner of a record six Super Bowl victories, Belichick’s meticulous game planning and attention to detail have solidified his status amongst the greats. Now the only question left on his illustrious resume is if he can win one without Tom Brady. 

• Career Winning Percentage: .662

1. Vince Lombardi: The Epitome of Excellence 

Vince Lombardi, the iconic coach of the Green Bay Packers, epitomized the essence of excellence in the NFL. He went on to capture five NFL Championships, including the first two Super Bowls. Lombardi’s unwavering commitment to discipline and work ethic laid the groundwork for future generations of coaches. Lombardi never had a losing season in his 10-year career. The Super Bowl trophy is named in his honor and rightfully so. Lombardi is still the greatest NFL Head Coach we have ever seen.

• Career Winning Percentage: .738

Looking for more all-time great lists? Check out our top 10 tight ends of all time feature.

The post Top 10 NFL Coaches of All Time appeared first on Pro Football Mania.

When looking at who are the best tight ends of all time it’s important to focus on the era they were playing. By doing so we can get a more accurate measurement of their impact on the game. Let’s take a closer look and break down the greatest tight ends to play in the NFL.

10. Charlie Sanders

Picking the 10th-best tight end was the toughest choice. Charlie Sanders, the Detroit Lions legend makes the cut. The Hall of Fame tight end was considered one of the best during his 10-year career. Many credit Sanders for revolutionizing the position as he was one of the first great pass catching tight ends. Like many of the tight ends we see in today’s game, Sanders had a basketball background. This allowed him to use his athleticism to high point the ball and come up with acrobatic catches. Sanders was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2007 and passed away in 2015.

9. Jason Witten

Throughout his 17-year career, Jason Witten established himself as one of the most consistent and dependable tight ends in the NFL. Known for his high football IQ, precise route-running, and reliable hands, Witten consistently produced at a high level. His toughness and leadership on and off the field earned him immense respect from teammates and coaches. Witten will always be a fan favorite in Dallas and should one day make the Hall of Fame.

8. Mike Ditka

Mike Ditka was the first ever tight end to make the Hall of Fame. As a player, he was a dominant force in both the receiving and blocking aspects of the game. Ditka’s physicality, toughness, and tenacity set the standard for future generations of tight ends. His contributions as a player and later as a successful coach further solidify his legacy. Ditka was one of the most influential figures in the history of the position.

7. Antonio Gates

Antonio Gates unique journey from college basketball player to NFL star exemplifies his exceptional athletic ability and adaptability. Gates seamlessly transitioned into football and became one of the most reliable and productive tight ends of his generation. Known for his basketball-like skills on the field, Gates utilized his size, leaping ability, and strong hands to create mismatches and consistently make big plays throughout his illustrious career with the San Diego/Los Angeles Chargers. He will be eligible for the Hall of Fame in 2024 and surely will make it in.

6. Ozzie Newsome

Ozzie Newsome’s consistent production and reliability made him one of the most respected tight ends of his era. Throughout his 13-year career with the Cleveland Browns, Newsome showcased exceptional hands, precise route running, and a knack for making crucial plays in key moments. His ability to consistently contribute as a receiver and a blocker earned him the nickname “The Wizard of Oz” and solidified his place among the best tight ends of all time.

5. Kellen Winslow Sr.

Kellen Winslow Sr.’s revolutionary contributions to the passing game set him apart as a true trailblazer at the tight end position. His exceptional receiving skills and athleticism paved the way for future generations of tight ends. Winslow Sr.’s memorable performances, including the legendary “Epic in Miami” playoff game, etched his name in NFL history and solidified his status as one of the all-time greats.

4. Shannon Sharpe

Shannon Sharpe’s remarkable speed and versatility made him a game-changer at the tight end position. His ability to stretch the field and make explosive plays resulted in three Super Bowl victories and numerous records. Sharpe’s impact as both a receiver and a blocker showcases the diverse skill set that sets him apart in the annals of tight end history. Sharpe continues to make an impact in the sports industry as a media personality.

3. Tony Gonzalez

Tony Gonzalez’s 17-year career is a testament to his unparalleled consistency and exceptional receiving skills. Known for his precise route running and sure hands, Gonzalez set the standard for modern tight ends. His ability to contribute as a blocker and a receiver, along with his record-breaking statistics, solidifies his position as one of the greatest tight ends of all time.

2. Travis Kelce

At age 33, Travis Kelce is showing no signs of slowing down. Kelce and Patrick Mahomes are the greatest quarterback/tight end duo the game has ever seen. Kelce possesses elite route-running abilities and the shiftiness of a wide receiver. With 2 Super Bowl titles already under his belt, the 8-time All-Pro tight end will no doubt be enshrined in the Hall of Fame.

1. Rob Gronkowski

Rob Gronkowski’s combination of size, strength, and athleticism makes him a matchup nightmare for any defense. His ability to overpower defenders and make acrobatic catches in the red zone has made him one of the most dominant tight ends in history. Gronkowski’s rapport with Tom Brady resulted in numerous record-breaking seasons and four Super Bowl championships, cementing his legacy as the best tight end of all time.

Looking for more all-time great lists? Check out our top 10 quarterbacks of all time feature.

The post Top 10 Tight Ends of All Time appeared first on Pro Football Mania.

One thing about Brady that is beyond question is his longevity. No quarterback has ever been able to remain at the top of the NFL for as long. That makes for a ton of great plays to choose from in compiling a list of his all-time greatest. The ten best prove why he’s one of the best to ever play at the quarterback position.

10. Game-winning Touchdown Against the Saints in 2013

Brady’s New England Patriots took on Drew Brees’s New Orleans Saints in the 2013 seasons. The game was a face-off between two of the greatest quarterbacks in the NFL at the time, and, indeed, of all time. With just seconds to go in the game, the Patriots trailed but were in scoring position.

On what would prove to be the game-winning play, Brady hit wide receiver Kenbrell Thompkins with just five seconds to go in the game. It was one of many last-moment comebacks in his career, but one of the most memorable.

9. Touchdown Pass to Scotty Miller in the 2021 NFC Championship

Brady’s tenure with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers resulted in a Super Bowl win against the Kansas City Chiefs. In order to get to that Super Bowl, the Buccaneers needed to get by the Green Bay Packers, who had homefield advantage in the game.

Just before the end of the first half, Brady hit wide receiver Scotty Miller on a long pass for a touchdown to put the Buccaneers up by ten points with one second before the half. The throw also put the momentum squarely in the Bucs’ corner for the start of the second half, and they never looked back on their way to victory.

8. Game-winning Touchdown Against the Bills in 2021

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers and the Buffalo Bills played one of the best games of the 2021 season. Josh Allen and the Bills have been one of the best teams in the AFC for the last few seasons, and they gave the Brady and the Buccaneers everything they could handle.

Just about everything, that is. In typical Brady fashion, with the game going to overtime, a 58-yard touchdown pass to Breshad Perriman ended the Bills’ challenge to the Bucs. It was yet another example of Brady’s late regulation/overtime theatrics.

7. Brady Catches a Pass from Danny Amendola

Sometimes the best plays are ones that are uncharacteristic. The same goes for the smartest plays. That’s certainly the case for the long catch Brady hauled in on a pass from his Patriots teammate Danny Amendola against the Philadelphia Eagles in 2015.

https://youtu.be/UXuZSj9BtJg

With the Patriots down 14 points, such a bizarre call was the right thing for the moment, and with Brady moving out wide, Amendola hit him before he was able to move up the field for a massive gain that put the team’s offense back in the right gear.

6. Touchdown to Randy Moss Keeps the Patriots’ Hopes for Perfection Alive

The Patriots’ perfect regular season of 2007 came under threat by the New York Giants, who would famously dethrone them later that season in the Super Bowl. In their regular season matchup, however, things went a bit differently.

Brady hit Randy Moss on a long touchdown that would put the Patriots on top in a game that tested them about as much as any regular season game did that season. Moss’s ability to break away from a covering safety was the perfect situation for Brady to exploit through his abilities with the deep ball.

5. Touchdown to Rob Gronkowski in Super Bowl XLIX

The Patriots faced the Seattle Seahawks in Super Bowl XLIX in an attempt to thwart them from back-to-back Super Bowl wins, which they successfully did after one of the most controversial and questionable play calls in the history of the NFL.

Nevertheless, Brady did his thing in the game as well, hitting Rob Gronkowski on a long touchdown with about 30 seconds left before halftime. The touchdown put the Patriots up by a touchdown, and was just one of the many Brady-Gronk connections that helped to define an era of the NFL.

4. Touchdown to David Givens in Super Bowl XXXIX

The Patriots faced the Philadelphia Eagles in Super Bowl XXIX in the earlier days of Brady’s long career. With the Eagles taking a touchdown lead late into the first half, the Patriots found themselves with the ball and driving just before halftime.

As the Patriots got closer to the end zone, Brady tossed a pass out to wide receiver David Givens which was caught for a touchdown allowing the team to tie the game with an extra point heading into the locker room. This particular touchdown is extremely important in the history of the Patriots’ dynasty, revitalizing them in a big moment.

3. Flea-flicker Against Steelers, #2

Brady hurt the Pittsburgh Steelers on two different flea-flickers in his career. The second of these flea-flickers went for 34 yards in the 2017 AFC Championship game, as the Patriots were yet again on their way to a Super Bowl appearance.

Once again, sometimes the best plays are the ones that are uncharacteristic and that we simply don’t see coming. Brady reminded us of this several times throughout his career. That was the case once again with his flea-flicker pass to Chris Hogan.

2. Flea-flicker Against Steelers, #1

The original Brady flea-flicker against the Steelers was even better than the second one, as it went for 56 yards to Jabbar Gaffney for a touchdown. It put the Patriots up by double digits in the third quarter and stands out as one of the greatest plays of the Patriots’ 2007 perfect regular season.

Brady’s penchant for bizarre plays at opportune moments is one of the reasons he’s one of the greatest quarterbacks to every play in the NFL. Not only that, his penchant for these kinds of plays almost always went for huge gains. This was a picture-perfect example.

1. The Touchdown That Created a Dynasty

The first touchdown Brady threw in a Super Bowl put the Patriots up ten points against the St. Louis Rams in Super Bowl XXXVI. The pass was to David Patten just before halftime. It wasn’t particularly special as far as touchdown passes go, but there’s no question it’s the most significant pass of Brady’s career.

This touchdown created the Patriots dynasty and ended what many thought was going to be a Rams dynasty. It completely uprooted the expectations of the league at the time. The heavily favored Rams found themselves down by double digits at halftime against a young quarterback named Brady, and we’ve all lived through the rest of the story.

The post 10 Greatest Plays of Tom Brady’s Career appeared first on Pro Football Mania.

The versatility of the position is one of the reasons why it’s so exciting. The greatest at the position have been bruisers, elusive speed freaks, balanced attackers. They’ve done their work inside the tackles, on the perimeter, and out of the backfield. But just who exactly are these backs?

10. Lenny Moore

Lenny Moore was arguably the NFL’s first dual threat running back in terms of running and catching the football. As one of the integral parts of the Baltimore Colts’ offense throughout the 1950s and 1960s, alongside Johnny Unitas, Raymond Berry, and John Mackey, Moore led the league in scrimmage yards per touch a remarkable six consecutive seasons between 1956 and 1961.

The two-time NFL champion Moore led the league in yards from scrimmage and combined rushing and receiving touchdowns in 1957 and led the league in combined rushing and receiving touchdowns again in 1964, the same season in which he led the entire league in points scored. He was a seven-time Pro Bowl selection and a five-time All-Pro selection.

9. Gale Sayers

As great as the Kansas Comet was, he will always be one of the NFL’s greatest unanswered questions. Gale Sayers played just seven seasons in the league for the Chicago Bears, retiring in the midst of his athletic prime at just 28. Had persistent knee injuries not forced his early retirement, he may well be much higher on this list. Even so, he managed to lead the league in rushing yards per game in three of those seven seasons.

Sayers was extremely elusive and agile which made him one of the most difficult running backs to tackle in NFL history. This talent also enabled him to be one of the league’s all-time great special teams players. In three consecutive seasons from 1965 to 1967, he led the league in all-purpose yards, twice going over the 2,000 mark (2,272 in ’65, 2,440 in ’66).

8. Marshall Faulk

Marshall Faulk was the engine allowing the St. Louis Rams’ Greatest Show on Turf to reach its highest potential. In three consecutive seasons from 1999 to 2001, he was selected as the NFL’s offensive player of the year. Like Lenny Moore before him, he was a specialist at catching the football out of the backfield as well as a traditional running back.

Faulk, who made a name for himself before his Rams days with the Indianapolis Colts, solidified his mark on the NFL with the Super Bowl team of 1999. In the ’99 regular season, he put up 2,429 total yards from scrimmage, breaking down to 1,381 rushing yards and 1,048 receiving yards, as well as 10.2 receiving yards per target.

7. LaDainian Tomlinson

LaDainian Tomlinson’s 2006 season stands out as one of the greatest individual seasons by a player at any position in NFL history. His 28 rushing touchdowns that season remains a league record even with the schedule jumping from 16 games to 17 starting in the 2021 season. Though this kind of season was never replicated, the rest of his career is equally worthy of praise.

Tomlinson led the NFL in rushing touchdowns for the San Diego Chargers in two seasons other than ’06 as well, in 2004 and 2007. Only Emmitt Smith scored more rushing touchdowns in league history. Few running backs have ever been as consistently great as he was for much of his career.

6. Eric Dickerson

Eric Dickerson was the Los Angeles Rams of the 1980s. In five seasons with the team, he led the NFL in rushing yards in three of them, including the ’84 season when he went for 2,105. He also had a great season with the Indianapolis Colts in ’88, which was one of four seasons he put up over 2,000 yards from scrimmage.

Dickerson slowed down beginning in the third year of his tenure with the Colts, but for most of his career he was consistently a threat to rush for over 1,200 yards. His 2,105-yard mark from ’84 still stands as an NFL single-season record, having been approached but never topped a couple of times by the likes of Adrian Peterson and Derrick Henry.

5. Barry Sanders

When you think about the history of the Detroit Lions, the first player that probably comes to mind is Barry Sanders. Few, if any, running back in league history has been as consistent. Even more impressive is that he played on teams that were generally less than stellar, with an offensive line that was likely lesser than many of the other great backs in league history.

Sanders also retired young at just 31 and just 1,457 shy of the then all-time rushing record held by Walter Payton. It’s entirely conceivable that he may have been able to reach that record had he chosen to keep playing. Nevertheless, there’s never been a back who has ever achieved more in the NFL with less.

4. Walter Payton

It was no mistake that Walter Payton became the NFL’s all-time leading rusher. After all, he was an absolute work horse. Between 1976 and 1979, he led the league in carries each season, reaching the mark of 369 in the ’79 season. Less known than the rushing record is that he also retired as the all-time leader in receptions as a running back, again pointing to his workload.

Plenty of lists have Payton higher than four, but that’s the appropriate placement. His numbers are more the result of repetition and the sizable workload he maintained rather than his being more talented than others on this list. However, there is something to be said for a running back who could hold up that level of play for so long.

3. Emmitt Smith

Emmitt Smith is currently the NFL’s all-time leading rusher, owing largely to his longevity at this running back position. In 13 seasons with the Dallas Cowboys, he had 11 seasons of at least 1,000 rushing yards and led the league in rushing four times. As part of the Cowboys dynasty of the 1990s, he was also one of the great postseason performers in league history.

What’s more, Smith is also the all-time leader in rushing touchdowns. His style of play was deceptive because he never appeared to be all that fast, elusive, or powerful. Yet there were never better running backs in the league while he was active, a testament to his vision in the backfield, on the go, and knowledge of situations.

2. O.J. Simpson

O.J. Simpson’s 1973 season is arguably the greatest individual season in the history of the NFL. In a 14-game schedule, he managed to rush for 2,003 yards, averaging 143.1 rushing yards per game. Imagine how many yards he gets if that’s a 17-game schedule. However, it took a few seasons for the Buffalo Bills to bring in a coach who would feature him so heavily.

In terms of sheer talent, no one tops Simpson. His longevity may not match that of Emmitt Smith or Walter Payton, but he was far more talented than either of them. Persistent legal problems have long since deterred the public’s attention away from his playing career, but there’s no denying his place as one of the NFL’s all-time greatest players.

1. Jim Brown

Jim Brown’s dominance over the NFL was unreal. In his nine-year career, there was only one season that he didn’t lead the league in rushing and in rushing yards per game. He led the league in rushing touchdowns in five seasons. He led the league in yards from scrimmage in six seasons. It’s similar to the way Wilt Chamberlain once dominated the NBA.

The eight-time All-Pro selection and three-time MVP is one of the five greatest players in NFL history. At 6’2”, 232 lbs, Brown was a bulldozer running the football. His 104.3 career rushing yards per game is the most in the history of the league. No player has ever had his level of superiority over his contemporaries.

The post Top 10 Running Backs of All Time appeared first on Pro Football Mania.

There is also the factor of championships that clouds this conversation. It’s a difficult balance to keep; on one hand, great quarterbacks often lead their teams to championships; on the other hand, individuals don’t win championships. Winning a championship is the job of a team. To determine who the greatest quarterbacks in NFL history are, all the elements that make up a career need to be properly contextualized, free of any recency bias, raw number worship, or blind adherence to championship wins.

10. Joe Montana

Joe Montana won four Super Bowls with the San Francisco 49ers dynasty of the 1980s. His efficiency as a passer was unmatched by any other quarterback of his era. He led the NFL in completion percentage five times, including in 1989 at 70.2% through 13 games, an incredible accomplishment in an era far less quarterback-friendly than the league is today.

Montana is also one of the most clutch quarterbacks in the history of the NFL, constantly coming up big in moments when the 49ers needed it. He played a major role in the emergence of one of the league’s all-time greatest players, Jerry Rice, and the tandem became one of the most potent QB-WR pairs the league has ever seen.

9. Aaron Rodgers

Four-time MVP Aaron Rodgers is one of the most physically gifted quarterbacks in the history of the NFL. He routinely makes throws that would be impossible for the vast majority of quarterbacks who have ever played. His ability to read defenses is also one of his greatest assets. Six times he has led the league in interception percentage index, an important diagnostic tool for making sense out of raw numbers.

The Green Bay Packers have routinely been contenders since Rodgers took over at the helm, leading generally more successful teams than his predecessor Brett Favre did. This speaks to his ability to adjust to a new situation. Throughout his career, he’s helped develop Greg Jennings, Randall Cobb, Jordy Nelson, and Davante Adams.

8. Drew Brees

In the history of the NFL, there’s been only one quarterback who has helped to redefine the definition of airing it out more than Drew Brees. Four times he threw for over 5,000 passing yards in a regular season. What’s more, five times he completed over 70% of his passes in a regular season. This helped the New Orleans Saints become a perennial contender in the NFC.

Brees led the NFL in yards gained per game played six times, with a high of 342.3 in 2011, and led the Saints to a Super Bowl win to cap off the 2009 season against the Indianapolis Colts. Few players have done more to raise the standing of a franchise in the national sports conversation than he did for the Saints.

7. Sid Luckman

Sid Luckman was coined “the first great T-formation quarterback” by sportswriter Ira Berkow and is still recognized today for his ability to innovate in the passing game. The offensive leader of four Chicago Bears NFL championship teams was proficient in a way no other quarterback was at that particular time. In 1943, an incredible 13.9% of his pass attempts went for touchdowns.

Luckman is also remarkable for reasons aside from his playing career, being one of the most prominent Jewish athletes of all time, and playing during World War II while also being a member of the United States Merchant Marines. He is still tied for the most touchdown passes thrown in a game with seven, being the first quarterback in the NFL to accomplish this.

6. Otto Graham

Incredibly, Otto Graham was the leader of seven Cleveland Browns championship teams in his ten seasons. Four of these came in the AAFC before the franchise entered the NFL, a league they held a complete, undisputed dominance over. These teams also featured the great Marion Motley and were coached by the team’s namesake, Paul Brown.

With seven championships, Graham is tied with Tom Brady as the most decorated quarterback in the history of professional football. He also put up completion percentages over 60% twice in an era with absolutely no pity for offensive play, which is easily the equal of a 70% completion mark under today’s rules.

5. Roger Staubach

Captain America, in many ways, was the prototype for the contemporary scrambling quarterback. Leading the Dallas Cowboys to two Super Bowl wins along the way, Roger Staubach lit up the NFL highlight reel with his elusive style of play which was unlike anything the league had ever seen at that particular time.

Staubach led the NFL in adjusted net yards per attempt four times and in passing rating index five times, with a high of 144 in the 1971 season. But what he’s remembered for more than anything else is being the leader of “America’s Team” whose style of play never knew a game was out of reach while the football was in his team’s possession.

4. Tom Brady

Tom Brady is the greatest of all time, right? We’ve heard it all a million times over. Pump the brakes. Those seven Super Bowls could easily have been two or three without Bill Belichick’s defenses. Nevertheless, Brady’s unmatched longevity and untouchable records are worth noting in and of themselves. He’ll likely be the only member of the 600-touchdown club to ever exist.

No one knows when Brady will finally call it a career, but considering 2021 was the first season he threw for over 5,000 yards, it’s possible he continues to play even after the current Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ season comes to an end. He’s been one of the inevitable facts of life, along with death and taxes, for over 20 years.

3. Johnny Unitas

The great Johnny U had physical abilities unmatched by any quarterback of his era. He led the NFL in passing touchdowns in four consecutive seasons from 1957-1960. This allowed the Baltimore Colts to win three NFL championships, including a Super Bowl win against the Dallas Cowboys to cap off the 1970 season.

Johnny Unitas remains one of the most familiar household names among NFL players 50 years since his retirement. That’s a testament to just how he reimagined the possibilities of the quarterback position. The three-time MVP is one of the most complete passers in the history of the NFL, going for over 3,000 passing yards in a season several times in an era when that wasn’t an easy thing to do.

2. Peyton Manning

Peyton Manning is the greatest passer in the history of the NFL and it isn’t even remotely close. With the Indianapolis Colts and the Denver Broncos, he was routinely above all other quarterbacks in the league. His 2013 season of 55 passing touchdowns still hasn’t been broken, even with the additional game added to the schedule in 2021.

Manning is the NFL’s only five-time MVP, a mark that likely stands for the foreseeable future. His game IQ is what sets him apart from his contemporaries, including his pocket presence, which was second to none. Despite being a non-scrambling quarterback, he led the NFL in sack percentage index six times, which lends itself to more than just having a good offensive line.

1. Sammy Baugh

Not only is Sammy Baugh the NFL’s all-time greatest quarterback, he’s arguably its all-time greatest player. No quarterback has ever had the efficiency of Baugh, let alone been able to lead the league in defensive interceptions (11 in 1943) while also being the league’s greatest punter. Simply put, he’s an unmatched figure in the history of the league.

Slingin’ Sammy forced the issue at the quarterback position at a time when that wasn’t generally done, and it paid off. He led the NFL in completion percentage index eight times and interception percentage index five times. In 1945, in ten games, he reached the 70.3% mark, which is nearly impossible to fathom. That number reasonably goes for at least 80% governed by the rules of today’s league. Simply unbelievable.

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