Ranking The Top 5 Minnesota Vikings Quarterbacks Of All Time

The Minnesota Vikings, a stalwart franchise in the NFL since 1961, have seen their fair share of talented quarterbacks over the years. From legendary passers to modern-day heroes, the Vikings’ quarterback lineage is rich with talent and unforgettable moments.

Let’s take a closer look at the top five quarterbacks in Vikings history.

Honorable Mentions

Randall Cunningham: Cunningham’s tenure with the Vikings was relatively short but memorable, particularly his MVP-caliber season in 1998.

Joe Kapp: Kapp led the Vikings to their first-ever playoff appearance in 1968 and remains a beloved figure in franchise history.

5. Kirk Cousins

Kirk Cousins may be the most controversial selection on this list, but his impact on the Vikings’ quarterback position cannot be denied.

Since joining the team in 2018, Cousins has consistently put up impressive numbers, surpassing 4,000 passing yards and 30 touchdowns in multiple seasons. While he has yet to lead the Vikings to a Super Bowl appearance, Cousins has provided stability at the quarterback position and has the potential to climb higher on this list with continued success.

4. Tommy Kramer

Tommy Kramer played for the Vikings from 1977 to 1989 and ranks among the franchise’s all-time leaders in passing yards and touchdowns.

Known for his strong arm and fearlessness in the pocket, Kramer was a fan favorite during his time in Minnesota. He had several standout seasons, including 1986 when he threw for over 3,000 yards and 24 touchdowns, earning a Pro Bowl selection.

Kramer’s ability to come through in clutch situations earned him the nickname “Two-Minute Tommy.”

3. Warren Moon

Although Warren Moon spent the majority of his Hall of Fame career with the Houston Oilers, his time with the Vikings left an indelible mark on the franchise.

Moon joined the Vikings in 1994 at the age of 37 and continued to showcase his exceptional passing skills. In his first season with Minnesota, he threw for over 4,200 yards and 18 touchdowns, leading the Vikings to the playoffs.

Moon’s veteran leadership and poise under pressure were invaluable assets to the team during his tenure.

2. Daunte Culpepper

Daunte Culpepper burst onto the scene in the late 1990s and quickly became one of the most electrifying quarterbacks in the league.

Standing at 6’4″ and weighing 260 pounds, Culpepper possessed a rare combination of size, strength, and athleticism. He had a breakout season in 2000, throwing for over 3,900 yards and 33 touchdowns. Culpepper’s most memorable season came in 2004 when he threw for 4,717 yards and 39 touchdowns, earning him First-Team All-Pro honors.

His ability to both pass and run made him a nightmare for opposing defenses.

1. Fran Tarkenton

Fran Tarkenton is not only the greatest quarterback in Vikings history but also one of the most iconic figures in NFL history.

He played for the Vikings in two separate stints, from 1961 to 1966 and then again from 1972 to 1978. Tarkenton was known for his exceptional scrambling ability, creativity on the field, and knack for extending plays. During his time with the Vikings, he led the team to three Super Bowl appearances and was named to nine Pro Bowls.

Tarkenton’s 47,003 passing yards and 342 touchdown passes with the Vikings still stand as franchise records.