Top 10 Quarterbacks of the 1990s

By Jason Bolton January 14, 2024 20:59

The 1990s saw the rise of several legendary quarterbacks who left an indelible mark on the NFL with their exceptional skills and leadership. Here's a look at the top 10 quarterbacks of the 1990s who shaped the game during this pivotal decade.

1. Joe Montana

Team: San Francisco 49ers, Kansas City Chiefs

Accomplishments: 4× Super Bowl champion, 3× Super Bowl MVP, 2× NFL MVP

Joe Montana, widely regarded as one of the greatest quarterbacks of all time, continued to showcase his exceptional talent in the early 1990s before retiring in 1995. His precision passing and ability to perform under pressure solidified his status as a football legend.

2. Steve Young

Team: San Francisco 49ers

Accomplishments: 3× Super Bowl champion, 1× Super Bowl MVP, 2× NFL MVP

Steve Young emerged as a force to be reckoned with in the 1990s, stepping out of Joe Montana's shadow to lead the 49ers to continued success. Known for his athleticism and remarkable passing ability, Young's impact on the game was truly profound.

3. Troy Aikman

Team: Dallas Cowboys

Accomplishments: 3× Super Bowl champion, 1× Super Bowl MVP, 6× Pro Bowl

Troy Aikman played a pivotal role in the Dallas Cowboys' dominance throughout the 1990s, guiding the team to multiple Super Bowl victories. His poised leadership and exceptional quarterbacking skills solidified his place as one of the decade's premier quarterbacks.

4. Brett Favre

Team: Green Bay Packers

Accomplishments: 1× Super Bowl champion, 3× NFL MVP, 11× Pro Bowl

Brett Favre's electrifying style of play and remarkable durability made him a standout figure in the 1990s NFL landscape. His ability to make big plays and lead the Packers to sustained success earned him widespread acclaim.

5. John Elway

Team: Denver Broncos

Accomplishments: 2× Super Bowl champion, 1× NFL MVP, 9× Pro Bowl

John Elway's impact on the game extended well into the 1990s as he continued to dazzle fans with his remarkable arm talent and clutch performances. His legendary "helicopter" run in Super Bowl XXXII remains one of the most iconic moments in NFL history.

6. Dan Marino

Team: Miami Dolphins

Accomplishments: 9× Pro Bowl, NFL 1990s All-Decade Team

Despite not winning a Super Bowl in the 1990s, Dan Marino's exceptional passing prowess and record-breaking performances cemented his status as one of the decade's top quarterbacks. His impact on the game and influence on future generations of quarterbacks cannot be overstated.

7. Jim Kelly

Team: Buffalo Bills

Accomplishments: 5× Pro Bowl, NFL 1990s All-Decade Team

Jim Kelly's leadership and resilience were on full display as he guided the Buffalo Bills to four consecutive Super Bowl appearances in the early 1990s. His ability to lead the high-powered Bills' offense solidified his reputation as one of the top quarterbacks of the decade.

8. Warren Moon

Team: Houston Oilers, Minnesota Vikings, Seattle Seahawks, Kansas City Chiefs

Accomplishments: 9× Pro Bowl, NFL 1990s All-Decade Team

Warren Moon's transition to the NFL in the 1990s showcased his remarkable skill set and ability to excel at the highest level of competition. His impact as a quarterback and his influence on the game extended well into the latter part of his career.

9. Randall Cunningham

Team: Philadelphia Eagles, Minnesota Vikings, Dallas Cowboys, Baltimore Ravens

Accomplishments: 4× Pro Bowl, NFL 1990s All-Decade Team

Randall Cunningham's dual-threat abilities revolutionized the quarterback position in the 1990s. His electrifying style of play and remarkable athleticism paved the way for future generations of mobile quarterbacks.

10. Boomer Esiason

Team: Cincinnati Bengals, New York Jets, Arizona Cardinals

Accomplishments: 4× Pro Bowl, NFL MVP

Boomer Esiason's consistent performance and leadership qualities made him a standout figure in the 1990s NFL landscape. His impact on the game and his ability to lead his teams to success earned him a well-deserved place among the top quarterbacks of the decade.

The 1990s bore witness to a remarkable array of quarterback talent, with each player leaving an indelible mark on the game. Their leadership, skill, and influence continue to resonate in the NFL, serving as a testament to their enduring impact on the sport.