In the ever-evolving landscape of football, the role of the quarterback has transformed dramatically. Gone are the days when signal-callers were expected to be strictly pocket passers. Today, mobility is a prized asset, and the ability to make plays with both arm and legs has become a defining characteristic of the modern quarterback.
The best dual-threat quarterbacks are those who can dissect defenses with their passing ability while also having the speed, agility, and vision to make big plays on the ground. These players have changed the game, forcing defensive coordinators to rethink their strategies and ushering in a new era of football.
With that in mind, here’s our ranking of the 15 greatest dual-threat quarterbacks in NFL history.
15. Kordell Stewart
Nicknamed “Slash” for his versatility, Kordell Stewart was one of the NFL’s earliest pioneers of the dual-threat quarterback. While his passing numbers weren’t eye-popping, his ability to extend plays and use his legs made him a unique weapon for the Pittsburgh Steelers in the late 1990s.
14. Patrick Mahomes
Mahomes isn’t just a magician with his arm—his ability to make plays on the run is equally devastating. While not a run-first quarterback, his escapability, mobility, and knack for making big plays outside the pocket make him one of the best dual-threat quarterbacks ever.
13. Randall Cunningham
Randall Cunningham set the standard for mobile quarterbacks in the 1980s and ‘90s. His combination of speed, arm strength, and creativity led to multiple Pro Bowl selections and an MVP-caliber season in 1998 with the Minnesota Vikings.
12. Kyler Murray
One of the most electrifying quarterbacks in today’s game, Kyler Murray has a rare blend of arm talent and quickness. Though he’s still writing his legacy, his ability to evade defenders and throw with precision can make him a nightmare matchup.
11. Fran Tarkenton
Before mobility became a necessity for quarterbacks, Fran Tarkenton was revolutionizing the position. The Hall of Famer extended plays like no other in the 1960s and 1970s, finishing his career with 3,674 rushing yards and countless jaw-dropping scrambles.
10. Donovan McNabb
Donovan McNabb was the face of the Philadelphia Eagles for a decade, leading them to multiple NFC Championship appearances and a Super Bowl berth. While his arm was his primary weapon, McNabb’s ability to escape pressure and pick up crucial yards on the ground was key to his success.
9. Josh Allen
Standing at 6-foot-5 and possessing a rocket arm, Josh Allen is one of the most physically gifted quarterbacks the NFL has ever seen. His ability to bulldoze defenders and extend plays has made him a dominant dual-threat in today’s game.
8. Aaron Rodgers
Aaron Rodgers’ mobility often goes overlooked, but his ability to extend plays and make off-platform throws is a major part of his success. Whether scrambling for key first downs or buying time for deep throws, Rodgers’ dual-threat skills have made him an all-time great.
7. John Elway
John Elway’s legendary career was defined by his mobility and clutch performances. Whether rolling out for game-winning throws or scrambling for first downs, Elway’s dual-threat ability helped him lead the Denver Broncos to back-to-back Super Bowl titles.
6. Steve McNair
A tough, physical, and incredibly skilled quarterback, Steve McNair was the epitome of a dual-threat. He was just as comfortable throwing for 3,000 yards as he was rushing for 500. The 2003 co-MVP led the Titans to a Super Bowl appearance, showcasing his ability to carry a team with both his arm and legs.
5. Cam Newton
The 2015 NFL MVP, Cam Newton was a force of nature at quarterback. At 6-foot-5, 245 pounds, he was a nightmare to tackle, excelling as both a passer and a bruising runner. His 75 rushing touchdowns are the most by any quarterback in NFL history.
4. Russell Wilson
A master of off-schedule plays, Russell Wilson’s mobility has allowed him to extend his career and remain one of the best quarterbacks in the game. His Super Bowl victory, multiple Pro Bowls, and ability to dissect defenses with both his arm and legs put him near the top of this list.
Read More: 10 Reasons Why Patrick Mahomes Is the GOAT
3. Steve Young
While best known for his passing ability, Steve Young’s athleticism made him a lethal dual-threat. He finished his career with over 4,000 rushing yards and six rushing touchdowns in Super Bowl appearances, cementing himself as an all-time great.
Read More: The Rise of Dual-Threat Quarterbacks: From Outliers to Game-Changers
2. Michael Vick
Very few (if any) quarterbacks in NFL history have possessed the raw speed and elusiveness of Michael Vick. His 6,109 career rushing yards is the second-most by any quarterback, and his arm strength only added to his defensive nightmare status.
Read More: Top 19 Unstoppable Dual-Threat QBs Electrifying the NFL Right Now
1. Lamar Jackson
The 2019 and 2023 NFL MVP, Lamar Jackson is arguably the most electrifying runner the quarterback position has ever seen. With multiple 1,000-yard rushing seasons and a knack for making defenders miss in open space, Jackson has redefined what it means to be a dual-threat quarterback. Not to mention, he has the most rushing yards ever by a quarterback (and he’s only 28 years old).
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