Ranking the top 50 quarterbacks in NFL history…
Drafted second overall by the Baltimore Colts in 1973 out of LSU, Bert Jones stepped into big shoes as the heir apparent to Johnny Unitas, quickly showcasing his talent on rebuilding teams.
Over nine seasons with the Colts from 1973 to 1981, Jones led the team to three straight AFC East titles from 1975 to 1977, though they fell in the divisional playoffs each year. His pinnacle came in 1976, when he threw for a league-leading 3,104 yards and 24 touchdowns with just nine interceptions, earning NFL MVP, Offensive Player of the Year, first-team All-Pro, and Pro Bowl honors.
That season, the Colts went 11-3, and Jones posted a 102.5 passer rating — one of only three quarterbacks to top 100 in the 1970s. In 1977, he earned second-team All-Pro nods after 2,686 yards and 17 touchdowns. A devastating shoulder injury in 1978 sidelined him for most of two seasons, and in 1980, he set an unfortunate NFL record by being sacked 12 times in one game. Traded to the Los Angeles Rams in 1982, a neck injury ended his career after just four games.
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Jones’ career totals include 18,190 passing yards, 124 touchdowns and 101 interceptions across 102 games (96 starts), with a 78.2 passer rating and 47-49 record. He also rushed for 1,429 yards and 14 touchdowns, averaging 5.8 yards per carry.
Jones’ standout attributes included exceptional arm strength — earning him the nickname “The Ruston Rifle” — remarkable athleticism and unmatched toughness.
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Jones’ playing style was that of a versatile dual-threat quarterback: mobile with the ability to run effectively and precise in his throws across all ranges.
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While injuries derailed his potential Hall of Fame trajectory, Jones was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2016 for his LSU exploits. He’ll always be remembered as somewhat of a what-if talent in NFL lore.
But who ranks ahead of Jones at [No. 45 all-time](https://nesn.com/2025/08/nfl-all-time-qb-rank-no-45-don-meredith/)?
Featured image via Tony Tomsic/USA TODAY NETWORK