Best Detroit Lions Quarterbacks of All Time - Top 10 Gridiron Legends
by B Kishwar
Updated Jan 30, 2024
Top 10 Best Detroit Lions Quarterbacks of All Time
1
Matthew Stafford
2009 - 2020
2
Bobby Layne
1950 - 1958
3
Jared Goff
2021
4
Dutch Clark
1932 - 1937
5
Greg Landry
1968 - 1978
6
Tobin Rote
1957 - 1959
7
Erik Kramer
1991 - 1993
8
Earl Morrall
1959 - 1964
9
Gary Danielson
1977 - 1984
10
Dave Krieg
1994
S.No.
Players
Time Period
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Best Detroit Lions Quarterbacks of All Time
The Detroit Lions, a storied franchise in the National Football League (NFL), have been home to several exceptional quarterbacks throughout their history. The legacy of the Best Detroit Lions Quarterbacks of All Time is characterized by skill, leadership, and memorable moments on the gridiron. From iconic figures like Bobby Layne, who led the team to NFL Championships in the 1950s, to modern stars like Matthew Stafford, known for his powerful arm and fourth-quarter heroics, these quarterbacks have left an indelible mark on the Lions' rich football history. Let's take a closer look at the top signal-callers who have donned the Honolulu Blue and Silver and played pivotal roles in shaping the team's narrative on the NFL stage.
1. Matthew Stafford (2009 - 2020)
Matthew Stafford, a first overall draft pick in 2009, stands as one of the most prolific quarterbacks in the history of the Detroit Lions. Over his remarkable 12-year tenure with the team, Stafford showcased an impressive blend of arm strength, accuracy, and resilience. From the outset of his career, he made an immediate impact, demonstrating exceptional pocket presence and a powerful throwing arm. Stafford's statistical achievements include consistently ranking among the league's top quarterbacks in passing yards, touchdowns, and fourth-quarter comebacks.
His leadership and ability to improvise under pressure earned him a Pro Bowl selection in 2014. Notably, Stafford became the fastest player in NFL history to reach 40,000 career passing yards, illustrating his enduring impact on the Lions' offensive prowess. As a key figure during a period of Detroit Lions history marked by both challenges and successes, Stafford left an indelible legacy as one of the franchise's all-time great quarterbacks.
2. Bobby Layne (1950 - 1958)
Bobby Layne, an iconic figure in Detroit Lions history, played an instrumental role in elevating the team to prominence during the 1950s. Acquired in a trade from the New York Bulldogs, Layne's gritty and fearless style of play made an immediate impact on the Lions' fortunes. His leadership and uncanny ability to engineer game-winning drives solidified his place among the greatest quarterbacks of his era. Layne earned numerous accolades, including being named the Pro Bowl MVP in 1952 and receiving All-Pro honors in consecutive seasons.
Beyond individual achievements, Layne played a pivotal role in leading the Lions to two NFL Championships (1952, 1953). His indomitable spirit and contributions to the team's golden era are commemorated by his enshrinement in the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1967, securing his enduring legacy as one of the Best Detroit Lions Quarterbacks of All Time.
3. Jared Goff (2021)
Jared Goff, the latest quarterback to lead the Detroit Lions, joined the team in 2021 through a notable trade. Despite his relatively recent arrival, Goff quickly asserted himself as a seasoned veteran on the field. Known for his poise, quick release, and impressive accuracy, he wasted no time making his presence felt in the Lions' offensive scheme.
Goff brought valuable experience to Detroit, having previously led his former team to a Super Bowl appearance. His ability to navigate high-pressure situations and provide leadership on and off the field has positioned him as a cornerstone for the Lions' ongoing development. As the franchise looks to the future with Goff at the helm, his impact and potential contributions to the legacy of Detroit Lions quarterbacks are eagerly anticipated.
4. Dutch Clark (1932 - 1937)
Dutch Clark, a football pioneer during the early years of the NFL, stands as a legendary figure in Detroit Lions history. Joining the team as a player-coach in 1932, Clark's impact was immediate and transformative. Known for his exceptional versatility, he not only revolutionized the Lions' offensive strategies but also led the team to its first NFL Championship. A six-time All-Pro selection during his tenure with the Lions, Clark's innovative play calling and deep understanding of the game left an enduring legacy.
His contributions extended beyond individual accolades, as he played a crucial role in shaping the team's identity during its formative years, solidifying his place in the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1963. Dutch Clark's influence resonates not only in the Lions' record books but also in the broader context of NFL history, marking him as one of the most iconic figures of his era.
5. Greg Landry (1968 - 1978)
Greg Landry, a dual-threat quarterback, became a cornerstone of the Detroit Lions offense throughout the late 1960s and 1970s. Drafted by the Lions, Landry showcased remarkable poise in the pocket coupled with a unique ability to evade defenders. His dynamic playing style earned him a Pro Bowl selection in 1971, highlighting his impact on the team. Landry's contributions extended beyond statistical achievements; his blend of athleticism and football intelligence ushered in a new era of quarterback play for the Lions.
As a steady force on the field, Landry left an indelible mark on the franchise, making him one of the most celebrated quarterbacks in Detroit Lions history. His legacy endures as a testament to his skill, leadership, and pivotal role in shaping the team's offensive identity during his illustrious career.
6. Tobin Rote (1957 - 1959)
Tobin Rote's brief but impactful tenure with the Detroit Lions from 1957 to 1959 marked a transformative period for the franchise. Acquired through a trade, Rote quickly became synonymous with success, guiding the team to the 1957 NFL Championship. His strong arm and outstanding rushing ability made him a dynamic presence on the field.
Rote's leadership qualities and tireless work ethic propelled the Lions through numerous thrilling comebacks, leaving an enduring mark on the team's history. As a true leader both on and off the field, Rote's versatility and determination forever changed the course of Lions football. While his time in Detroit was relatively short, Tobin Rote's impact is etched in the annals of the franchise's history as a key contributor to its success during the late 1950s.
7. Erik Kramer (1991 - 1993)
Erik Kramer, a quarterback for the Detroit Lions from 1991 to 1993, brought a sense of stability and precision to the team's offense during his tenure. Signed as a free agent, Kramer quickly made an impact with his pinpoint accuracy and unflappable demeanor on the field. His ability to dissect defenses and deliver the ball with surgical precision elevated the Lions during a period of uncertainty.
Despite not achieving notable team success during his time with the Lions, Kramer's cerebral approach to the game and his knack for delivering timely plays made him a respected leader on the field. His legacy extends beyond mere physical attributes, as he left a lasting impact on the franchise through his steady play and leadership qualities.
8. Earl Morrall (1959 - 1964)
Earl Morrall, a consummate professional, played a key role as the Detroit Lions quarterback from 1959 to 1964. Drafted by the team, Morrall showcased adaptability and a winning pedigree, endearing him to teammates and coaches alike. Though championship success eluded him in Detroit, Morrall's calm demeanor and innate ability to read defenses proved invaluable.
His career continued beyond his time with the Lions, as he went on to earn multiple Super Bowl titles, solidifying his status as a top-tier quarterback. Morrall's valuable experience and steady presence on the field provided the Lions with a reliable leader under center during a crucial period in the team's history.
9. Gary Danielson (1977 - 1984)
Gary Danielson, who played for the Detroit Lions from 1977 to 1984, brought an unquestionable toughness and competitive fire to the team. Initially undrafted, Danielson's resilience and strong arm quickly made him a fixture on the roster. His ability to deliver timely plays in crucial moments helped guide the Lions towards success during his time with the team.
Danielson's unwavering confidence and fierce determination continue to be admired by the Lions faithful. His impact on the team extended beyond individual accomplishments, as he played a vital role in elevating the play of those around him and contributed to the team's competitive spirit.
10. Dave Krieg (1994)
Dave Krieg, a quarterback for the Detroit Lions in 1994, showcased unwavering determination and uncanny accuracy during his brief stint with the team. Signed as a free agent, Krieg quickly demonstrated his ability to command the offense with poise and precision. While individual accolades may have eluded him during his time in Detroit, Krieg's gritty play and never-say-die attitude resonated with both teammates and fans.
His relentless work ethic and strong leadership qualities left an indelible mark on the franchise, contributing to the team's culture during the 1994 season. Despite his relatively short tenure with the Lions, Krieg's impact on and off the field is remembered as a testament to his enduring legacy in the NFL.
Which Detroit Lions Quarterback Led the Team to Championship Success?
Bobby Layne stands as the Detroit Lions quarterback who led the team to championship success during the early 1950s. Layne played a pivotal role in one of the most successful eras in Lions history. Acquired in a trade with the New York Bulldogs in 1950, Layne's gritty and fearless style of play elevated the franchise to new heights. Known for his uncanny ability to lead game-winning drives, Layne played a crucial role in bringing the Lions back-to-back NFL Championships in 1952 and 1953.
Layne's impact on the team extended beyond statistical achievements; his leadership qualities and on-field charisma made him a revered figure among teammates and fans alike. His ability to perform under pressure and orchestrate late-game heroics became synonymous with Detroit Lions football during his tenure. Layne's legacy as one of the greatest quarterbacks in franchise history was solidified not only by his championship success but also by his enduring influence on the team's culture and the indomitable spirit he brought to the gridiron. In recognition of his contributions, Bobby Layne was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1967, forever cementing his place as a Detroit Lions legend.
Best Detroit Lions Quarterbacks of All Time - FAQs
Erik Kramer is regarded as one of the standout quarterbacks for the Detroit Lions in the early 1990s, bringing stability and precision to the team from 1991 to 1993.
Earl Morrall, who quarterbacked for the Lions from 1959 to 1964, played a crucial role in the 1960s and went on to achieve multiple Super Bowl titles beyond his stint with the Lions.
Gary Danielson, initially undrafted, is recognized for bringing toughness and competitive fire to the Detroit Lions as their quarterback from 1977 to 1984.
Dave Krieg, who joined the Detroit Lions in 1994 as a free agent, left a lasting impact with his unwavering determination and uncanny accuracy during his brief tenure.
Earl Morrall served as the Detroit Lions quarterback from 1959 to 1964. Although championship success eluded him in Detroit, Morrall's calm demeanor and ability to read defenses proved invaluable, and he later went on to achieve multiple Super Bowl titles in his career.