5. Brett Favre, GB/NYJ/MIN:
Favre was a true gambler at the QB position – for every big play he made, it seemed like a costly turnover was just around the corner. However, despite his streaky playstyle, Favre was a massive talent and had a special career: he made 11 Pro Bowls and won NFL MVP three times.
4. Donovan McNabb, PHI
After being drafted No. 2 overall in 1999, McNabb lived up to the hype. He was exactly what the doctor ordered for Philly: a playmaker who limited turnovers. He led the Eagles to five NFC Championship Games and one Super Bowl in the 2000s, making six Pro Bowls in the process.
3. Drew Brees, SD/NO
Although his San Diego tenure was solid, Brees really hit the ground running in New Orleans, becoming one of the most prolific passers in NFL history. Despite his smaller frame and limited arm talent, Brees’ intelligence and accuracy helped him make 13 Pro Bowls and win the Saints a Super Bowl.
2. Peyton Manning, IND
Although it was a struggle to win the big one at first for Manning, there was no doubting his greatness once he got his Super Bowl ring in 2007. His magical anticipation and ability to read a defense made him an all-time great; his 14 Pro Bowls and five MVP awards speak for themselves.
1. Tom Brady, NE
The greatest QB of all time had to be first on this list. His achievements just in the 2000s are jaw-dropping: Five Pro Bowls, one NFL MVP, and three Super Bowl wins in five appearances. His consistent ability to seemingly always make the right play is a trait that every quarterback seeks to emulate.
