Every NFL Team’s Best Quarterback Since 2000
Buffalo Bills - Josh Allen
After years of instability at quarterback, Josh Allen has transformed the Bills into perennial contenders. Drafted in 2018, Allen’s rare combination of arm strength, mobility, and size redefined Buffalo’s offense. He’s already set franchise records for touchdowns and total yards, while leading the Bills to multiple playoff runs, restoring hope to a fan base that endured a 17-year postseason drought.
Miami Dolphins - Chad Pennington
The Dolphins have struggled to find long-term stability, but Chad Pennington’s 2008 season stands out. Coming over from the Jets, Pennington revitalized Miami, winning NFL Comeback Player of the Year and leading them to an 11–5 record and an AFC East title. While Tua Tagovailoa has shown flashes, Pennington’s leadership and efficiency define Miami’s best QB play since 2000.
New England Patriots - Tom Brady
This one is obvious. Tom Brady not only defined the Patriots franchise but also the NFL itself during the 21st century. With six Super Bowls in New England, three MVP awards, and countless clutch performances, Brady turned a once-middling franchise into a dynasty. His run with Bill Belichick remains one of the most dominant eras in sports history.
New York Jets - Chad Pennington
The Jets haven’t had much quarterback stability, but Pennington provided their most consistent stretch in the early 2000s. A precise, efficient passer, he guided the Jets to multiple playoff berths, including a 2002 division title. While names like Mark Sanchez and Brett Favre brought moments, Pennington was the steadiest presence since 2000.
Baltimore Ravens - Lamar Jackson
While Joe Flacco brought Baltimore a Super Bowl in 2012, Lamar Jackson has been the most electrifying quarterback in team history. The 2019 MVP revolutionized the position with his dual-threat abilities, setting records for rushing while developing into a dynamic passer. His presence has made the Ravens one of the toughest offenses to defend in the league.
Cincinnati Bengals - Joe Burrow
The Bengals had Carson Palmer and Andy Dalton, but Joe Burrow has redefined the franchise. Drafted No. 1 overall in 2020, he quickly elevated Cincinnati to Super Bowl contention, leading them to an AFC Championship in just his second season. His poise, accuracy, and leadership have given the Bengals their brightest QB future since Boomer Esiason.
Cleveland Browns - Baker Mayfield
The Browns have cycled through quarterbacks, but Baker Mayfield gave the franchise its first playoff win in decades. Drafted in 2018, Mayfield brought swagger and competitiveness, snapping a long drought with a postseason victory in Pittsburgh in 2021. While Deshaun Watson is now the team’s future, Mayfield’s impact in reviving Cleveland football was undeniable.
Pittsburgh Steelers - Ben Roethlisberger
Drafted in 2004, Ben Roethlisberger became the cornerstone of Pittsburgh’s modern success. With two Super Bowl wins and more than 60,000 passing yards, he embodied toughness and late-game heroics. For nearly two decades, Big Ben gave the Steelers stability and made them perennial contenders in the AFC.
Houston Texans - Deshaun Watson
Before his off-field controversies and departure, Deshaun Watson was the Texans’ most talented quarterback since their inception in 2002. A three-time Pro Bowler, he led Houston to multiple playoff appearances and set franchise passing records. Despite the messy ending, Watson’s on-field play was the highest peak the Texans have seen under center.
Indianapolis Colts - Peyton Manning
Peyton Manning defined the Colts’ golden era. From 2000 until his departure in 2011, he won four MVPs, led Indianapolis to two Super Bowl appearances, and delivered a championship in 2006. His mastery of the offense and pre-snap adjustments changed the way the QB position is played, making him the franchise’s best QB of the century.
Jacksonville Jaguars - David Garrard
The Jaguars haven’t had much quarterback success, but David Garrard provided steady play in the mid-2000s. His 2007 season was the highlight, guiding Jacksonville to the playoffs and a postseason win over Pittsburgh. Trevor Lawrence may ultimately surpass him, but Garrard remains the most impactful QB the Jags had in the 2000s.
Tennessee Titans - Steve McNair
Steve McNair’s best seasons stretched into the early 2000s, including his 2003 MVP campaign. His toughness and leadership made Tennessee competitive year after year. While Ryan Tannehill delivered playoff success in the late 2010s, McNair’s blend of grit and skill keeps him as the Titans’ defining quarterback since 2000.
Denver Broncos - Peyton Manning
After his Colts tenure, Manning’s Denver years added to his legacy. From 2012–2015, he set records for passing touchdowns and yards in a season and capped it with a Super Bowl 50 victory. Even in a short span, Manning delivered some of the most explosive offensive football in Broncos history.
Kansas City Chiefs - Patrick Mahomes
Already a legend, Patrick Mahomes has completely changed the NFL landscape. Since becoming starter in 2018, he has won two MVPs, three Super Bowls, and redefined quarterback play with creativity and arm talent. Mahomes is not only the Chiefs’ best since 2000 but arguably one of the greatest ever.
Las Vegas Raiders - Rich Gannon
The Raiders have had ups and downs, but Rich Gannon’s early 2000s run stands out. He won league MVP in 2002 and led the Raiders to a Super Bowl appearance. While Derek Carr provided stability for nearly a decade, Gannon’s peak was the franchise’s high-water mark in the modern era.
Los Angeles Chargers - Philip Rivers
From 2006 to 2019, Philip Rivers was the heartbeat of the Chargers. With over 60,000 passing yards and eight Pro Bowls, he defined consistency and competitiveness. Though playoff success was limited, Rivers’ fiery leadership and durability made him one of the best quarterbacks of his era.
Dallas Cowboys - Tony Romo
While Dak Prescott has carried the torch, Tony Romo was the Cowboys’ best since 2000. Undrafted in 2003, Romo became a Pro Bowl passer and statistical leader for Dallas. Though postseason success eluded him, his ability to extend plays and deliver big throws gave the Cowboys an identity for over a decade.
New York Giants - Eli Manning
Eli Manning’s legacy is built on two Super Bowl runs, both against Tom Brady’s Patriots. While inconsistent at times, his durability and clutch performances in the postseason secured his place in Giants history. From 2004 to 2019, he was the face of the franchise, delivering unforgettable moments.
Philadelphia Eagles - Jalen Hurts
Since taking over as starter, Jalen Hurts has quickly become the face of the Eagles franchise. Leading Philadelphia to a Super Bowl appearance in the 2022 season, Hurts showcased his dual-threat ability and leadership on the biggest stage. His growth as a passer combined with his rushing power makes him one of the most dangerous quarterbacks in the NFL today. With a bright future ahead, Hurts represents the Eagles’ best quarterback since 2000, providing both stability and superstar potential.
Washington Commanders - Robert Griffin III
Robert Griffin III’s rookie season in 2012 remains one of the most electrifying in Washington’s modern history. Winning Offensive Rookie of the Year, RG3 led the team to an NFC East title with his dazzling dual-threat playmaking and explosive speed. Though injuries derailed his career, that season brought a spark and hope to Washington fans that hasn’t been matched since. Griffin’s impact, even in a short window, stands as the team’s best quarterback performance since 2000.
Chicago Bears - Jay Cutler
It says a lot about the Bears’ QB history that Jay Cutler is the choice. Acquired in 2009, he became the franchise’s all-time passing leader and led them to the 2010 NFC Championship Game. While inconsistent, Cutler gave Chicago its most stable quarterback play in decades.
Detroit Lions - Matthew Stafford
Drafted No. 1 in 2009, Stafford became the face of Detroit football. With over 45,000 passing yards, countless comeback wins, and a cannon for an arm, he kept the Lions competitive despite a lack of team success. His talent was fully validated when he won a Super Bowl with the Rams after leaving Detroit.
Green Bay Packers - Aaron Rodgers
Aaron Rodgers carried the torch after Brett Favre, becoming a four-time MVP and a Super Bowl champion. Known for his pinpoint accuracy and creativity, Rodgers gave Green Bay over a decade of elite quarterback play. His dominance made the Packers consistent contenders every year.
Minnesota Vikings - Daunte Culpepper
The Vikings had solid years with Brett Favre and Kirk Cousins, but Daunte Culpepper’s early-2000s peak was special. His 2004 season, with nearly 5,000 yards and 39 touchdowns, was one of the best QB campaigns of the era. Injuries cut his career short, but at his best, he was electric.
Atlanta Falcons - Matt Ryan
Matt Ryan defined Atlanta football for over a decade. Drafted in 2008, he became the franchise’s all-time leader in every major passing category and won MVP in 2016, leading the Falcons to a Super Bowl appearance. His consistency and professionalism made him one of the NFC’s most respected QBs.
Carolina Panthers - Cam Newton
Cam Newton changed the quarterback position in Carolina. The 2015 MVP dominated defenses with his arm and legs, leading the Panthers to a Super Bowl berth. His charisma and physical style of play energized the franchise, making him the most impactful QB in team history.
New Orleans Saints - Drew Brees
Drew Brees’ arrival in 2006 completely transformed the Saints. With a Super Bowl title, an NFL record for passing yards, and countless comeback victories, he became the face of New Orleans sports. His leadership after Hurricane Katrina made his impact go beyond football, cementing him as a legend.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers - Tom Brady
While Brad Johnson brought Tampa its first Super Bowl in 2002, Tom Brady’s short but spectacular run (2020–2022) redefined the franchise. At age 43, he won a Super Bowl in his first season, rejuvenating the team and bringing unprecedented offensive firepower.
Arizona Cardinals - Kurt Warner
Kurt Warner’s late-career renaissance with Arizona was unforgettable. From 2007 to 2009, he led the Cardinals to their first Super Bowl appearance, nearly pulling off an upset over Pittsburgh. His precision passing and leadership gave Arizona one of its brightest eras.
Los Angeles Rams - Matthew Stafford
Though Marc Bulger had a strong run, Matthew Stafford’s immediate impact brought the Rams a Super Bowl in his first season (2021). His chemistry with Cooper Kupp and clutch playoff performances cemented his place as the Rams’ best QB of the 21st century.
San Francisco 49ers - Colin Kaepernick
The 49ers had multiple solid QBs, but Colin Kaepernick’s peak was the most dynamic. His 2012 playoff run, including a Super Bowl appearance, showcased his dual-threat explosiveness. While his career was short-lived, his impact on San Francisco during those years was undeniable.
Seattle Seahawks - Russell Wilson
Drafted in 2012, Wilson became the most successful QB in Seahawks history. With two Super Bowl appearances and one championship, he was the perfect blend of playmaking, leadership, and consistency. His ability to extend plays and deliver clutch throws defined Seattle’s golden era.
