Ranking the 10 Best Vikings Quarterbacks of All Time
Quarterbacks have been the driving force behind the Minnesota Vikings' offensive success since the team's inception in 1960. These talented players have been responsible for leading the offense, making crucial decisions, and delivering accurate passes to their receivers. Throughout the Vikings' history, the quarterback position has produced some of the most iconic, impactful, and legendary players to ever don the purple and gold, leaving an indelible mark on the franchise.
From strong-armed gunslingers with unparalleled accuracy to mobile signal-callers who can extend plays and make game-changing decisions, this list represents the very best of what the position has to offer in Minnesota Vikings history. These elite quarterbacks have redefined the position, set new standards for excellence, and inspired generations of passers who have followed in their footsteps.
Without further ado, here is our ranking of the 10 best Vikings quarterbacks of all time:
(If you didn’t catch Ranking the 10 Best Vikings Running Backs of All Time, you can read that here.)
10. Sam Bradford
Accolades:
- Hall of Fame induction: No
- First-Team All-Pro selections: 0
- Pro Bowls: 0
Summary:
Sam Bradford, the first overall pick in the 2010 NFL Draft out of the University of Oklahoma, joined the Minnesota Vikings in 2016 after stints with the St. Louis Rams and Philadelphia Eagles. Bradford's time with the Vikings was marked by moments of brilliance, as he showcased his accuracy and pocket presence, despite dealing with injuries that limited his overall impact on the franchise.
In his first season with the Vikings, Bradford set an NFL record for completion percentage (71.6%) and helped lead the team to a 7-8 record as the starting quarterback. His quick release and ability to read defenses allowed him to thrive in offensive coordinator Pat Shurmur's system, proving that when healthy, he could be a highly effective quarterback in the NFL.
Bradford's 2017 season was cut short due to a knee injury, which he suffered in the season opener against the New Orleans Saints. Despite attempting to return later in the season, Bradford was unable to regain his starting role, as Case Keenum had stepped in and led the Vikings to the NFC Championship game.
Although Bradford's tenure with the Vikings was relatively short, his impact on the franchise cannot be overlooked. His record-setting 2016 season provided a glimpse of his potential when healthy, and his leadership and professionalism were valued in the locker room.
While injuries ultimately derailed Bradford's career, his time with the Vikings showcased his talent and ability to produce at a high level when given the opportunity. His accuracy, touch, and ability to make quick decisions under pressure were all evident during his stint in Minnesota.
Sam Bradford's legacy with the Vikings is one of untapped potential and "what could have been." His brief moments of brilliance left fans wondering what he could have accomplished had he remained healthy throughout his career. Despite the limitations imposed by injuries, Bradford's place among the top 10 best Vikings quarterbacks of all time is a testament to his skill set and the impact he made during his short tenure with the franchise. While he may not have achieved the same level of success as some of the other quarterbacks on this list, Bradford's contributions to the Vikings should not be forgotten.
9. Tommy Kramer
Accolades:
- Hall of Fame induction: No
- First-Team All-Pro selections: 0
- Pro Bowls: 1
Summary:
Tommy Kramer, a first-round pick out of Rice University in 1977, spent the majority of his 14-year NFL career with the Minnesota Vikings. Known for his strong arm and gunslinger mentality, Kramer earned the nickname "Two-Minute Tommy" for his ability to lead clutch drives late in games.
Kramer became the Vikings' starting quarterback in 1979 and held the role for most of the next decade. His best season came in 1986 when he threw for a career-high 3,000 yards and 24 touchdowns, earning him his only Pro Bowl selection. Kramer's performance that year helped lead the Vikings to a 9-7 record and a playoff berth.
Throughout his career, Kramer was known for his toughness and ability to play through injuries. He never missed a start due to injury during his time as the Vikings' primary quarterback, a testament to his resilience and dedication to the team.
Kramer's leadership and locker room presence were also highly valued by his teammates and coaches. His competitive nature and willingness to take risks on the field endeared him to Vikings fans, who appreciated his never-say-die attitude.
While Kramer's career numbers may not match those of some of the other quarterbacks on this list, his longevity and impact on the Vikings franchise cannot be overlooked. He remains one of the most prolific passers in team history, ranking in the top five in various statistical categories such as passing yards, touchdowns, and completions.
Tommy Kramer's legacy with the Vikings is one of toughness, resilience, and the ability to perform in clutch situations. His strong arm and fearless approach to the game made him a fan favorite and a respected leader in the locker room. Kramer's contributions to the Vikings during his 13 years with the team solidified his place among the franchise's top 10 quarterbacks of all time. While he may not have achieved the individual accolades of some of his contemporaries, Kramer's impact on the Vikings and his status as a beloved figure in team history should not be understated.
8. Brad Johnson
Accolades:
- Hall of Fame induction: No
- First-Team All-Pro selections: 0
- Pro Bowls: 2
Summary:
Brad Johnson, a ninth-round pick out of Florida State University in 1992, played for the Minnesota Vikings in two separate stints (1992-1998 and 2005-2006) during his 15-year NFL career. Known for his accuracy and decision-making, Johnson was a steady presence under center for the Vikings.
Johnson became the Vikings' starting quarterback in 1996 and led the team to a 9-7 record and a playoff berth. His best season with the Vikings came in 1997 when he threw for 3,036 yards and 20 touchdowns, earning him his first Pro Bowl selection.
During his second stint with the Vikings in 2005-2006, Johnson served as a mentor to younger quarterbacks and provided valuable leadership in the locker room. His experience and knowledge of the game were highly regarded by his teammates and coaches.
Throughout his career, Johnson was known for his consistency and ability to minimize mistakes. His accuracy and touch on short to intermediate passes allowed him to efficiently move the ball down the field and sustain drives.
While Johnson's time with the Vikings was split between two stints, his impact on the franchise was significant. He helped lead the team to the playoffs in 1996 and 1997, and his leadership and professionalism were valued both on and off the field.
Johnson's legacy extends beyond his time with the Vikings, as he went on to win a Super Bowl with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2002. However, his contributions to the Vikings franchise during his seven seasons with the team cannot be overlooked.
Brad Johnson's legacy with the Vikings is one of consistency, accuracy, and leadership. His ability to make smart decisions with the ball and his calm demeanor under pressure made him a valuable asset to the team. Johnson's impact on the Vikings, both as a starting quarterback and as a mentor to younger players, solidified his place among the franchise's top 10 quarterbacks of all time. While he may not have spent his entire career with the Vikings, Johnson's contributions to the team during his seven seasons in Minnesota were significant and helped establish him as one of the most reliable quarterbacks in franchise history.
7. Rich Gannon
Accolades:
- Hall of Fame induction: No
- First-Team All-Pro selections: 2
- Pro Bowls: 4
Summary:
Rich Gannon, a fourth-round pick out of the University of Delaware in 1987, began his NFL career with the Minnesota Vikings, playing for the team from 1987 to 1992. Although his tenure with the Vikings was relatively short and he primarily served as a backup quarterback, Gannon's inclusion in the Vikings' top 10 quarterbacks list is justified by his impressive accomplishments later in his career.
During his time with the Vikings, Gannon showed flashes of the talent that would later make him a four-time Pro Bowler and a two-time First-Team All-Pro with the Oakland Raiders. He made the most of his limited opportunities, showcasing his mobility, arm strength, and leadership skills.
Gannon's most significant contribution to the Vikings came during the 1990 season when he started six games in place of an injured Wade Wilson. In those six starts, Gannon led the Vikings to a 3-3 record, throwing for 1,324 yards and 6 touchdowns, demonstrating his potential as a starting quarterback in the NFL.
While Gannon's achievements with the Vikings were limited, his later success with the Raiders solidified his status as one of the best quarterbacks of his era. From 1999 to 2002, Gannon earned four consecutive Pro Bowl selections and was named First-Team All-Pro twice (2000 and 2002). His most impressive season came in 2002 when he led the Raiders to a Super Bowl appearance, throwing for 4,689 yards and 26 touchdowns, and was named the NFL's Most Valuable Player.
Gannon's inclusion in the Vikings' top 10 quarterbacks list is a testament to his overall career achievements and the potential he showed during his early years in Minnesota. His success in Oakland, coupled with the flashes of brilliance he displayed as a backup in Minnesota, demonstrates the talent and leadership he possessed throughout his career.
Rich Gannon's legacy with the Vikings is one of potential and promise, as his time with the team laid the groundwork for his future success in the NFL. Although his most impressive accomplishments came with the Raiders, Gannon's inclusion among the Vikings' top 10 quarterbacks serves as a recognition of his overall impact on the game and the potential he showed during his early years in the league. His story serves as a reminder that sometimes a player's true greatness may not be fully realized until later in their career, and that their contributions to a franchise can extend beyond their time on the field.
6. Kirk Cousins
Accolades:
- Hall of Fame induction: No
- First-Team All-Pro selections: 0
- Pro Bowls: 4
Summary:
Kirk Cousins, a fourth-round pick out of Michigan State University in 2012, joined the Minnesota Vikings in 2018 as a highly sought-after free agent. During his tenure with the Vikings, which spanned from 2018 to 2023, Cousins established himself as one of the most consistent and productive quarterbacks in franchise history.
In his first season with the Vikings, Cousins threw for 4,298 yards and 30 touchdowns, leading the team to an 8-7-1 record and narrowly missing the playoffs. His performance quickly established him as a leader both on and off the field.
Cousins' 2019 season was just as impressive, as he threw for 3,603 yards and 26 touchdowns while leading the Vikings to a 10-6 record and a playoff berth. In the Wild Card round, Cousins orchestrated a game-winning drive in overtime against the New Orleans Saints, cementing his status as a clutch performer.
Throughout his time with the Vikings, Cousins consistently demonstrated his accuracy, decision-making, and ability to distribute the ball to his playmakers. His chemistry with wide receivers Adam Thielen and Justin Jefferson was a key factor in the team's offensive success.
Cousins earned two more Pro Bowl selections in 2021 and 2022, further solidifying his place among the best quarterbacks in Vikings history. In 2021, he threw for 4,221 yards and 33 touchdowns, while in 2022, he recorded 4,547 yards and 29 touchdowns, showcasing his ability to perform at a high level year after year.
After the 2023 season, Cousins' tenure with the Vikings came to an end, as he signed with the Atlanta Falcons as a free agent. Despite not bringing a Super Bowl championship to Minnesota, Cousins' impact on the franchise and his individual accomplishments during his six seasons with the team were significant.
Kirk Cousins' legacy with the Vikings is one of consistency, production, and leadership. His accuracy, decision-making, and ability to perform in high-pressure situations made him a valuable asset to the team during his six-year tenure. Cousins' four Pro Bowl selections serve as a testament to his impact on the franchise and his place among the best Vikings quarterbacks of all time. Although his time in Minnesota did not result in a championship, Cousins' contributions to the Vikings' success and his individual achievements will be remembered as an important chapter in the franchise's history. As he moves on to the next stage of his career with the Atlanta Falcons, Vikings fans will undoubtedly look back on Cousins' tenure with appreciation for his consistent production and leadership.
5. Daunte Culpepper
Accolades:
- Hall of Fame induction: No
- First-Team All-Pro selections: 0
- Pro Bowls: 3
Summary:
Daunte Culpepper, the 11th overall pick in the 1999 NFL Draft out of the University of Central Florida, spent the first seven years of his career with the Minnesota Vikings. During his tenure, Culpepper established himself as one of the most dynamic and talented quarterbacks in franchise history, known for his strong arm, mobility, and playmaking ability.
Culpepper took over as the Vikings' starting quarterback in 2000 and immediately made an impact, throwing for 3,937 yards and 33 touchdowns while leading the team to an 11-5 record and a playoff berth. His breakout season earned him his first Pro Bowl selection and set the stage for a memorable career in Minnesota.
In 2004, Culpepper had a career-best season, throwing for 4,717 yards and 39 touchdowns while also rushing for 406 yards and 2 touchdowns. His performance earned him his third Pro Bowl selection and solidified his status as one of the premier dual-threat quarterbacks in the NFL.
Throughout his time with the Vikings, Culpepper formed a formidable duo with wide receiver Randy Moss, with the two connecting for numerous highlight-reel plays and record-setting performances. Culpepper's ability to extend plays with his legs and make throws on the run made him a constant threat to opposing defenses.
Injuries ultimately cut short Culpepper's time with the Vikings, as he suffered a severe knee injury in 2005 that limited his effectiveness in subsequent seasons. Despite the unfortunate end to his tenure in Minnesota, Culpepper's impact on the franchise and his place among the team's all-time great quarterbacks remain secure.
Daunte Culpepper's legacy with the Vikings is one of incredible talent, electrifying performances, and memorable moments. His ability to make plays with both his arm and his legs made him a fan favorite and a nightmare for opposing defenses. Culpepper's connection with Randy Moss and his role in the team's offensive success during the early 2000s solidified his place in Vikings history. While injuries may have cut short his time in Minnesota, Culpepper's impact on the franchise and his status as one of the most gifted quarterbacks to ever wear a Vikings uniform will not be forgotten. His legacy serves as a reminder of the excitement and potential he brought to the field during his time with the team.
4. Randall Cunningham
Accolades:
- Hall of Fame induction: No
- First-Team All-Pro selections: 1
- Pro Bowls: 4
Summary:
Randall Cunningham, originally a second-round pick of the Philadelphia Eagles in 1985, joined the Minnesota Vikings in 1997 after a one-year retirement from the NFL. During his three seasons with the Vikings, Cunningham experienced a career resurgence, showcasing his unique blend of athleticism, arm strength, and improvisational skills.
In his first season with the Vikings, Cunningham took over as the starting quarterback after an injury to Brad Johnson and led the team to a 9-7 record. His performance earned him his fourth Pro Bowl selection and set the stage for a memorable 1998 campaign.
The 1998 season was a magical one for Cunningham and the Vikings, as he led the team to a 15-1 regular-season record while throwing for 3,704 yards and 34 touchdowns. Cunningham's ability to extend plays with his legs and make throws from unconventional angles made him a nightmare for opposing defenses and helped unlock the full potential of the Vikings' offense.
Cunningham's partnership with wide receivers Cris Carter and Randy Moss formed one of the most electrifying offensive trios in NFL history, as the Vikings set numerous offensive records and scored a then-NFL record 556 points during the 1998 season. Cunningham's performance earned him his first and only First-Team All-Pro selection and cemented his place in Vikings lore.
While the Vikings fell short of reaching the Super Bowl during Cunningham's tenure, his impact on the franchise and his role in the team's success during the late 1990s cannot be overstated. Cunningham's unique skill set and ability to make plays out of nothing added a new dimension to the Vikings' offense and made them one of the most exciting teams in the NFL.
Randall Cunningham's legacy with the Vikings is one of resilience, reinvention, and electrifying performances. His ability to resurrect his career and lead the Vikings to unprecedented heights during his three seasons with the team solidified his place among the franchise's greatest quarterbacks. Cunningham's partnership with Cris Carter and Randy Moss and his role in the Vikings' record-setting 1998 season will forever be remembered as one of the most exciting chapters in team history. While his time in Minnesota may have been relatively short, Cunningham's impact on the franchise and his place in Vikings lore will endure as a testament to his unique talent and the unforgettable moments he created on the field.
3. Warren Moon
Accolades:
- Hall of Fame induction: Yes - First-Team All-Pro selections: 0
- Pro Bowls: 9
Summary:
Warren Moon, a legendary quarterback who began his professional career in the Canadian Football League, joined the Minnesota Vikings in 1994 after a successful run with the Houston Oilers. During his three seasons with the Vikings, Moon continued to showcase the talent and leadership that made him one of the most respected quarterbacks of his generation.
In his first season with the Vikings, Moon led the team to a 10-6 record and a playoff berth, throwing for 4,264 yards and 18 touchdowns. His experience and poise under pressure helped elevate the play of his teammates and solidified his status as a valuable addition to the Vikings' roster.
Moon's best season with the Vikings came in 1995, when he threw for 4,228 yards and 33 touchdowns, earning him his eighth Pro Bowl selection. His performance that season helped lead the Vikings to an 8-8 record and further cemented his place among the NFL's elite quarterbacks.
Throughout his time with the Vikings, Moon's accuracy, touch, and ability to read defenses made him a constant threat to opposing teams. His leadership and professionalism both on and off the field earned him the respect of his teammates and coaches, and his impact on the franchise extended beyond his on-field accomplishments.
Moon's legacy as one of the greatest quarterbacks in NFL history was already secure by the time he arrived in Minnesota, but his contributions to the Vikings franchise only added to his illustrious career. His ability to perform at a high level well into his 30s and his role in mentoring younger players made him an invaluable asset to the team.
Warren Moon's legacy with the Vikings is one of excellence, leadership, and unwavering professionalism. His three seasons with the team served as a testament to his enduring talent and his ability to make a positive impact on any franchise fortunate enough to have him. Moon's place in the Pro Football Hall of Fame and his status as one of the greatest quarterbacks of all time only serve to underscore the significance of his contributions to the Vikings organization. While his time in Minnesota may have been relatively brief compared to some of the other quarterbacks on this list, Moon's impact on the franchise and his place among the team's all-time greats will forever be remembered and celebrated.
2. Brett Favre
Accolades:
- Hall of Fame induction: Yes
- First-Team All-Pro selections: 3
- Pro Bowls: 11
Summary:
Brett Favre, a legendary quarterback primarily known for his tenure with the Green Bay Packers, joined the Minnesota Vikings in 2009 after a brief retirement. During his two seasons with the Vikings, Favre experienced a remarkable resurgence, showcasing the talent, competitiveness, and enthusiasm that made him one of the greatest quarterbacks in NFL history.
In his first season with the Vikings, Favre led the team to a 12-4 record and an NFC North title, throwing for 4,202 yards and 33 touchdowns. His performance earned him his 11th Pro Bowl selection and helped the Vikings reach the NFC Championship Game, where they narrowly lost to the New Orleans Saints in overtime.
Favre's ability to quickly adapt to the Vikings' offense and build chemistry with his new teammates was a testament to his football IQ and leadership skills. His command of the huddle, combined with his gunslinger mentality and ability to make plays under pressure, made him an instant fan favorite in Minnesota.
While Favre's second season with the Vikings was marred by injuries and inconsistency, his overall impact on the franchise cannot be overstated. His presence elevated the play of his teammates and brought a level of excitement and anticipation to Vikings football that had not been seen in years.
Favre's legacy with the Vikings, albeit brief, is one of resilience, passion, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. His ability to perform at a high level even in the twilight of his career and his role in leading the Vikings to the brink of a Super Bowl appearance solidified his place among the greatest players to ever wear the purple and gold.
Brett Favre's legacy with the Minnesota Vikings serves as a remarkable footnote to an already legendary career. His two seasons with the team showcased the very best of his abilities, as he brought the same level of competitiveness, enthusiasm, and skill that made him a beloved figure in Green Bay. Favre's impact on the Vikings franchise, while brief, was significant, as he helped resurrect the team's fortunes and brought them tantalizingly close to a Super Bowl appearance. His place among the best Vikings quarterbacks of all time is secure, not only because of his on-field accomplishments but also due to the leadership, charisma, and excitement he brought to the organization. Favre's Vikings tenure will forever be remembered as a thrilling chapter in his storied career and a memorable era in Minnesota sports history.
1. Fran Tarkenton
Accolades:
- Hall of Fame induction: Yes
- First-Team All-Pro selections: 1
- Pro Bowls: 9
Summary:
Fran Tarkenton, a third-round pick out of the University of Georgia in 1961, spent the majority of his 18-year NFL career with the Minnesota Vikings, playing for the team from 1961-1966 and again from 1972-1978. During his time with the Vikings, Tarkenton established himself as the greatest quarterback in franchise history, known for his scrambling ability, improvisation, and deadly accurate passing.
Tarkenton's first stint with the Vikings saw him lead the team to the NFL Championship Game in 1961 and earn three Pro Bowl selections. His unique playing style and ability to extend plays with his legs made him a fan favorite and a nightmare for opposing defenses.
After a five-year stint with the New York Giants, Tarkenton returned to the Vikings in 1972 and led the team to three Super Bowl appearances (1973, 1974, and 1976). Although the Vikings fell short in all three contests, Tarkenton's performances and leadership during this era cemented his status as the best quarterback in team history and the one who came closest to delivering Minnesota its first Super Bowl victory.
Throughout his career, Tarkenton set numerous NFL records, including passing yards (47,003), completions (3,686), and touchdowns (342). His ability to improvise and make plays out of seemingly impossible situations made him one of the most exciting players to watch and helped revolutionize the quarterback position.
Tarkenton's impact on the Vikings franchise extended beyond his on-field accomplishments. His competitiveness, work ethic, and leadership set the standard for future Vikings quarterbacks and helped establish a winning culture within the organization.
Fran Tarkenton's legacy with the Vikings is one of unparalleled excellence, innovation, and enduring greatness. His unique playing style, record-setting performances, and leadership during the team's most successful era in the 1970s made him an icon in Minnesota sports history and solidified his place atop the list of the franchise's greatest quarterbacks. Tarkenton's place in the Pro Football Hall of Fame and his status as one of the greatest quarterbacks of all time serve as a testament to his immeasurable impact on the game and the Vikings franchise. His legacy as a trailblazer, a true pioneer of the quarterback position, and the player who brought the Vikings closest to a Super Bowl championship will forever be remembered and celebrated by Vikings fans and football enthusiasts alike. Tarkenton's name will always be synonymous with the Minnesota Vikings, and his contributions to the team and the sport will continue to inspire generations of players and fans.
The Enduring Legacy of the Best Vikings Quarterbacks of All Time
Throughout the history of the Minnesota Vikings, the quarterback position has produced some of the most influential and impactful players to ever wear the purple and gold. Legends such as Fran Tarkenton, Brett Favre, and Daunte Culpepper have left indelible marks on the franchise with their unparalleled skills, clutch performances, and unwavering dedication to excellence.
As the NFL has evolved, the role of the quarterback has become increasingly complex and demanding. From the classic pocket passers of the past to the versatile, dual-threat signal-callers of today, the position has adapted to meet the demands of modern offenses. These elite quarterbacks are now tasked with not only making accurate throws and leading their team to victory but also reading defenses, making split-second decisions, and even contributing with their legs when needed. Their ability to impact the game in multiple ways, from orchestrating game-winning drives to extending plays and creating opportunities for their teammates, can be the difference between victory and defeat.
The quarterbacks we've highlighted in this article represent the very best in Vikings history, each having made a lasting impact on the team and its fans. From the scrambling ability and improvisational skills of Fran Tarkenton and the gunslinger mentality of Brett Favre to the strong arm and leadership of Daunte Culpepper and the precision passing of Kirk Cousins, these players have set the standard for what it means to be an elite quarterback in Minnesota.
As the Vikings continue to build towards a championship future, a new generation of quarterbacks is poised to carry the torch and build upon the legacies of those who came before them. Players like Sam Darnold and J.J. McCarthy possess the skills, work ethic, and potential to one day join the ranks of the all-time greats and shape the future of the position in Minnesota.
The quarterback position has a rich history filled with some of the most iconic and impactful players in Vikings history. These legendary signal-callers have not only redefined what it means to play the position but have also left a lasting impact on the team, its fans, and the Minnesota community as a whole. As the Vikings move forward, the legacy of these all-time great quarterbacks will continue to inspire and influence the next generation of players, ensuring that the position remains a crucial and celebrated role in the team's success for years to come. Read next: Ranking the 10 Best Vikings Field Goal Kickers of All Time - Discover the 10 best field goal kickers in Minnesota Vikings history, from legends like Gary Anderson to players such as Blair Walsh.
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