NFL All-Time QB Rank No. 33: Steve McNair

Ranking the top 50 quarterbacks in NFL history…

33. Steve McNair

Drafted third overall by the Houston Oilers in the 1995 NFL Draft out of Alcorn State, McNair quickly established himself as a tough, versatile leader, becoming the first franchise QB for the Tennessee Titans after the team’s relocation.

Over 11 seasons with the Oilers/Titans, he set records, including most wins (76) and became the youngest QB to reach 20,000 passing yards and 3,000 rushing yards. His standout 2003 season saw him throw for 3,215 yards and 24 touchdowns with seven interceptions, leading the league in passer rating (100.4) and earning co-NFL MVP honors with Peyton Manning, plus All-Pro and Pro Bowl nods.

In 1999, McNair led Tennessee to Super Bowl XXXIV, falling 23-16 to the Rams after a dramatic final play. He guided the Titans to four playoffs, including a trip to the 2002 AFC Championship.

Traded to the Baltimore Ravens in 2006, McNair’s career peaked again with a 13-3 record and AFC North title, throwing for 3,050 yards and 16 touchdowns, though injuries ended his 2007 season early. He retired in 2008.

McNair’s career totals stand at 31,304 passing yards and 174 touchdowns across 161 games, with an 82.8 passer rating and 91-62 record. He rushed for 3,590 yards and 37 touchdowns.

McNair’s standout attributes include his remarkable toughness—playing through injuries like broken bones—and dual-threat mobility, with a strong arm and leadership that stabilized franchises.

While criticized for interception-prone stretches (119 career), his resilience inspired teammates like Eddie George. Tragically killed in 2009, McNair’s legacy lives on.

But who ranks ahead of McNair at No. 32 all-time?