Some quarterbacks go out of their way to be media darlings. Then there are the ones who thrive when the world is rooting against them, feeding off boos like it’s their pregame meal.
Whether it was trash talk, tantrums, or just being a little too confident, these quarterbacks never minded being the villain. In fact, they wore the hate like a badge of honor—and sometimes, it even made them better.
15. Cam Newton
Cam Newton danced, dabbed, and smiled his way into plenty of end zone celebrations—and the crosshairs of angry fans. He never backed down from criticism, even when his swagger rubbed people the wrong way.
14. Jay Cutler
Jay Cutler had a permanent smirk and an attitude that screamed “I don’t care.” Fans and teammates alike got frustrated, but Cutler didn’t exactly rush to change.
13. Baker Mayfield
Baker Mayfield has always played with a chip on his shoulder the size of a stadium. He wasn’t afraid to talk trash, plant flags, or take shots at anyone who doubted him.
12. Jim McMahon
Jim McMahon was flashy, rebellious, and always ready with a quote that annoyed someone. He leaned into being a pain for opponents, coaches, and reporters alike.
11. Deshaun Watson
Even before the controversy, Deshaun Watson had a confidence that turned some fans off. Now, he plays with the edge of a man who knows boos are coming—and welcomes them anyway.
10. Jeff George
Jeff George had a cannon for an arm and a reputation for clashing with everyone in sight. His unapologetic style made him one of the most polarizing quarterbacks of his era.
9. Philip Rivers
Philip Rivers didn’t curse, but he sure could get under your skin. His constant chirping and in-your-face style made him a target—one he seemed to enjoy.
8. Colin Kaepernick
Colin Kaepernick knew his stance would make waves, and he didn’t back down. On the field and off, he embraced being a lightning rod.
7. Johnny Manziel
Johnny Football was made to be hated. Flashy, cocky, and reckless, Manziel seemed to welcome every ounce of backlash with a smirk.
6. Michael Vick
Michael Vick’s playing style was electric, but his off-field controversies made him a villain to many. Even after his return, he played like someone determined to silence every critic.
5. Jameis Winston
Jameis Winston is a walking meme who plays like he’s in a video game. His gunslinger mentality and chaotic decisions have earned him love, hate, and a lot of shrugs—he doesn’t seem to care either way.
4. Joe Namath
Broadway Joe thrived on swagger and the spotlight, even if it meant people hated him for it. He leaned into the fame and the scorn with equal gusto.
3. Ben Roethlisberger
Big Ben carried himself with a toughness and confidence that rubbed some people the wrong way. He always seemed perfectly fine being the villain, especially in enemy stadiums.
Read More: Ranking the 30 Best Quarterbacks of All Time
2. Aaron Rodgers
Aaron Rodgers has grown more polarizing with each passing year—and he seems to like it that way. Whether it’s cryptic interviews or smug touchdown celebrations, Rodgers clearly doesn’t mind being disliked.
Read More: NFL Fanbases That Boo Their Own Team the Fastest
1. Tom Brady
No one has been hated more—while also loving it more—than Tom Brady. He fueled dynasties, broke hearts, and smirked through every chorus of boos thrown his way.
Read More: NFL Teams Most Likely to Get Booed
