Quarterbacks are the face of the franchise, and with that spotlight comes plenty of love—and plenty of hate. Whether it’s their personality, playing style, media presence, or off-field antics, some QBs find a way to split fans right down the middle.
From flashy stars to misunderstood leaders, these guys were adored in one city and booed in the next. Here are the 15 most polarizing quarterbacks to ever step under center.
15. Tony Romo
Some fans saw Romo as an underrated talent who carried flawed Cowboys teams. Others thought he was the king of choking in big moments and never quite lived up to the hype.
14. Baker Mayfield
He brings swagger, energy, and a big personality—sometimes too much of it. Mayfield’s confidence has been interpreted as leadership by some and arrogance by others.
13. Jay Cutler
His arm strength was never in question, but his aloof attitude rubbed many people the wrong way. You either found him refreshingly honest or frustratingly disengaged.
12. Michael Vick
Vick was a once-in-a-generation talent who rewrote the rules of quarterback play. But his off-field controversies made him a lightning rod for debate throughout his career.
11. Cam Newton
Cam was flashy, fun, and full of charisma—but his celebrations and fashion sense weren’t everyone’s cup of tea. Fans either loved his flair or rolled their eyes at it.
10. Jeff George
Known for his cannon arm and frosty relationships with coaches, George was a walking contradiction. His talent never quite matched the drama he brought to the stage.
9. Tim Tebow
He inspired millions with his faith and fourth-quarter comebacks. But critics argued he lacked the mechanics and consistency to be a true NFL starter.
8. Philip Rivers
Rivers talked more trash than a defensive back and threw with a funky motion that defied logic. His fiery demeanor made him a fan favorite—or a constant irritant, depending on your perspective.
7. Johnny Manziel
“Johnny Football” was all hype, headlines, and Heisman-level buzz. However, his NFL career quickly flamed out, leaving behind a trail of divided opinions.
6. Lamar Jackson
Some fans see him as a game-breaking MVP and revolutionary playmaker. Others still question whether his style can hold up deep into the postseason.
5. Donovan McNabb
He led the Eagles to consistent success but was never fully embraced by all Philly fans. McNabb’s calm demeanor and occasional playoff struggles stirred up more debate than expected.
4. Jim McMahon
The headband, the attitude, the Super Bowl shuffle—McMahon was nothing if not unique. He was a rebel with a cannon, and not everyone was on board with his antics.
3. Brett Favre
Gunslinger mentality? Check. Legendary moments? Check. However, his career was also marked by head-scratching throws, retirement drama, and later controversies.
Read More: Ranking the 20 Most Polarizing Quarterbacks in NFL History
2. Aaron Rodgers
Rodgers is brilliant on the field but can be prickly and polarizing off the field. Some view him as a misunderstood genius, while others perceive him as a challenging individual.
Read More: Top 5 Most Polarizing Coaches in College Basketball History
1. Tom Brady
The winningest quarterback of all time is also one of the most debated. For every diehard fan who praises his clutch play, someone is pointing to scandals, smugness, or his endless winning as reasons to root against him.
Read More: 10 Quarterbacks Who Thought They Were Smarter Than Their Coach
