Baltimore’s rich football history is well-represented in Bleacher Report’s recently released ranking of the top 99 quarterbacks of all time. The list, published on February 17, 2026, features five players with significant ties to the city, spanning both the Colts and Ravens franchises. This recognition underscores Baltimore’s long-standing tradition of strong quarterback play and its enduring impact on the NFL.
Leading the Baltimore contingent is legendary Colts quarterback Johnny Unitas, who secured the No. 11 spot on the list. Unitas, often hailed as one of the pioneers of the modern quarterback position, cemented his legacy during his time in Baltimore. Further down the list, Vinny Testaverde, the first quarterback to lead the Baltimore Ravens, landed at No. 73. Joe Flacco, who famously guided the Ravens to a Super Bowl XLVII victory in 2013, was ranked No. 53, and Steve McNair, who finished his career with the Ravens, came in at No. 45. Notably, current Ravens star Lamar Jackson achieved the highest ranking among the group, securing the No. 28 position.
A Legacy Spanning Eras
The presence of five quarterbacks connected to Baltimore highlights the city’s consistent contribution to the position throughout NFL history. As Ravens Wire reported, the list acknowledges quarterbacks from multiple eras, showcasing the evolution of the game and the enduring impact of Baltimore’s signal-callers.
Unitas, who played from 1955 to 1972, is widely considered an icon of the game. According to Wikipedia, he completed 2,830 of 5,186 passes for 40,239 yards and 290 touchdowns during his career. His influence extended beyond statistics, defining the quarterback position for a generation. The Ravens’ representation, particularly with Flacco and Jackson, demonstrates the franchise’s commitment to strong quarterback play over the past two decades.
Flacco, McNair, and Jackson: Continuing the Tradition
Joe Flacco’s Super Bowl run in 2013 remains a defining moment in Ravens history. His postseason performance solidified his place among the franchise’s greats. Steve McNair, though only with the Ravens for a short period, provided a memorable season for Baltimore fans. And Lamar Jackson, a dynamic and record-breaking player, continues to build his legacy as one of the league’s most exciting quarterbacks.
Jackson’s ranking at No. 28 is particularly noteworthy, given his ongoing career. With the current Ravens quarterback still in his prime, Baltimore’s representation on lists like these is likely to grow in the years to come. The combination of legendary figures like Unitas and emerging stars like Jackson ensures that Baltimore will remain a prominent destination for quarterback talent.
What’s Next for Baltimore’s Quarterbacks?
The ranking serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of quarterbacks who have worn the colors of Baltimore’s NFL teams. As the game continues to evolve, the city’s quarterbacks will undoubtedly continue to shape the future of the position. The success of Lamar Jackson will be a key storyline to watch in the coming years, as he strives to further cement his place among the NFL’s all-time greats.
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