Ranking the top 50 quarterbacks in NFL history…
48. Vinny Testaverde
Drafted first overall by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 1987 out of the University of Miami, where he won the Heisman Trophy in 1986, Testaverde endured a rocky start on struggling teams but evolved into a durable journeyman.
Over six seasons with the Buccaneers, he threw for 14,820 yards and 77 touchdowns but led the league in interceptions multiple times, reflecting the team’s woes.
Revitalized with the Cleveland Browns (1993-1995) and Baltimore Ravens (1996-1997), he earned his first Pro Bowl in 1996 after throwing for 4,177 yards and 33 touchdowns. His career highlight came with the New York Jets (1998-1999, 2003), where in 1998 he posted 3,256 yards and 29 touchdowns, leading them to the AFC Championship Game and securing another Pro Bowl.
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Later stints with the Dallas Cowboys (2004), New England Patriots (2006), and Carolina Panthers (2007) showcased his veteran savvy.
His career totals stand at 46,233 passing yards and 275 touchdowns across 233 games, with a 56.5 percent completion rate. He consistently ranked in the top 10 for passing stats in his prime.
Testaverde’s standout attribute was his cannon arm, enabling deep throws with power and touch, combined with remarkable longevity despite injuries. He also displayed solid pocket mobility for his size (6-foot-5).
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Testaverde’s playing style was that of a traditional pocket passer: methodical, reliant on arm talent, and capable of dissecting defenses.
While rightfully criticized for turnovers (267 career interceptions) and a sub-.500 winning percentage (42.3 percent), Testaverde was a tremendous talent who displayed a ton of career resilience.