In the NFL, some players are loved, some are hated—and a select few manage to be both at the same time. Whether it’s because of their personalities, playing styles, off-field drama, or just plain swagger, some guys split fan opinion like a coin toss.
These are the players who were lightning rods for conversation every time they stepped on the field. Here are the 15 most divisive players in NFL history, ranked by how much they stirred the pot.
15. Eli Manning
Some say he’s a two-time Super Bowl hero, others say he was just average with a great defense. Either way, Eli’s career sparks more debates than you’d expect from such a chill dude.
14. Jay Cutler
Cutler’s talent was never really in question—but his body language and attitude? That’s where fans drew the line. Some saw a misunderstood gunslinger, others saw a guy who just didn’t care.
13. Philip Rivers
Rivers talked trash like a linebacker and threw passes like he was playing backyard ball. Some loved the passion, others couldn’t stand the antics.
12. Odell Beckham Jr.
From one-handed catches to touchdown dances to headline-making drama, OBJ kept people talking. Some fans saw a generational talent, others saw a distraction in cleats.
11. Johnny Manziel
Manziel was either the next big thing or the biggest bust before he ever took a snap. Flashy, loud, and unpredictable—he was made for TV, just maybe not for long-term NFL success.
10. Brett Favre
Favre was beloved by many for his toughness and creativity, but the late-career waffling and off-field drama turned others off. Even his retirement couldn’t avoid controversy… the first or second time.
9. Terrell Owens
T.O. backed up his trash talk with game-breaking ability, but his sideline spats and signature celebrations divided fans. Love him or hate him, you always had an opinion.
8. Michael Vick
Vick changed the quarterback position forever—but his legal troubles made him a deeply polarizing figure. Some fans welcomed his redemption arc, others never moved past his past.
7. Deion Sanders
Prime Time lived for the spotlight and let you know about it every step of the way. Some called it confidence, others called it cockiness—but nobody ignored it.
6. Tim Tebow
Tebowmania was either a feel-good underdog story or a media-fueled circus, depending on who you asked. Fans were split on whether he could actually play or just inspire.
5. Antonio Brown
AB was once considered the best receiver in the league—then came the drama, headlines, and constant team changes. His talent was never the issue, but everything else was.
4. Cam Newton
Cam’s MVP season had fans either celebrating his unique style or criticizing everything from his celebrations to his wardrobe. He was a walking debate topic throughout his career.
3. Colin Kaepernick
Kaepernick sparked a national conversation that went far beyond football. Whether you supported him or not, he changed the way sports and activism intersected—and not everyone agreed on how.
Read More: Ranking the 20 Most Polarizing Quarterbacks in NFL History
2. Aaron Rodgers
Rodgers is one of the most talented quarterbacks ever, but his interviews and off-field comments always stir up conversation. Some call him misunderstood, others call him insufferable.
Read More: 10 NFL Players Who Were Blacklisted From the League
1. Tom Brady
Brady’s greatness is undeniable, but so is the backlash. Whether it’s the Super Bowl rings, the sideline outbursts, or the never-ending success, he’s been praised and picked apart more than anyone in NFL history.
Read More: Ranking the 15 Most Sensitive NFL Superstars of All Time
