The 10 Greatest Kansas City Chiefs Quarterbacks of All Time
From the early days of the franchise to the current gridiron heroes, the Kansas City Chiefs have been led by a remarkable lineup of quarterbacks who’ve etched their names into the annals of NFL history. These field generals have orchestrated unforgettable moments, thrilling comebacks, and championship glory, each contributing uniquely to the Chiefs’ storied legacy. Huddle up and let’s celebrate the top 10 quarterbacks who’ve donned the Chiefs’ red and gold, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of fans and the game.
Patrick Mahomes
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Defenders have nightmares because of what Patrick Mahomes can do with a football. No-look passes, sidearm throws, and clutch heroics have fueled a career filled with records. Three Super Bowl wins, multiple MVP titles, and over 32,000 passing yards have made him the face of the franchise. His ability to turn broken plays into touchdowns keeps Kansas City fans confident no game is ever out of reach.
Len Dawson
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Talk about a championship-winning leader built for big moments. Len Dawson’s pinpoint accuracy helped the Chiefs dominate the AFL and claim victory in Super Bowl IV. Over 28,000 passing yards and 237 touchdowns made him a franchise icon. Calm under pressure and ruthless when defenses made mistakes, he helped define Kansas City football. His Hall of Fame career cemented his place as one of the game’s greats.
Joe Montana
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Kansas City needed a proven winner, and Joe Montana delivered. Two playoff runs, a trip to the AFC Championship, and unforgettable comebacks made his brief tenure legendary. Precise passing and unmatched football IQ gave the Chiefs a true field general. His impact stretched beyond statistics. Montana’s presence alone elevated expectations, proving Kansas City could compete with the league’s best. Experience and leadership changed everything.
Alex Smith
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Winning seasons became the norm when Alex Smith took charge. Over 17,000 passing yards and 102 touchdowns weren’t the only reasons fans appreciated him. His leadership and decision-making stabilized the team, turning them into contenders. His willingness to mentor Patrick Mahomes set up the next dynasty. Resilience and efficiency made him a fan favorite, while his consistent play helped Kansas City dominate the AFC West.
Trent Green
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The offense exploded with Trent Green under center. Over 21,000 passing yards and 118 touchdowns highlighted his time in Kansas City. His connection with stars like Tony Gonzalez helped make the Chiefs one of the league’s highest-scoring teams. Accuracy and toughness defined his play, making him a cornerstone of the franchise. A steady leader, a fierce competitor, and the perfect quarterback for a dynamic attack.
Steve Bono
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Quarterbacking a 13-3 team takes more than skill, and Steve Bono brought confidence, efficiency, and the ability to win. His 1995 season remains one of the best for a Chiefs quarterback, highlighted by 3,000 passing yards and a playoff berth. Managing the game with intelligence and delivering when it mattered made him invaluable. His impact lasted beyond the stat sheet, helping Kansas City stay dominant.
Steve DeBerg
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Few quarterbacks played tougher than Steve DeBerg. He gave Kansas City a reliable leader despite injuries and adversity. Over 11,000 passing yards and 67 touchdowns only tell part of the story. His experience and grit helped steady the team, keeping them competitive. Respected for his toughness and veteran savvy, DeBerg earned his place in Chiefs history as a quarterback who refused to back down.
Elvis Grbac
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Critics overlooked how effective Elvis Grbac could be. Over 10,000 passing yards and a Pro Bowl selection proved his value. His 1999 season saw him throw 22 touchdowns while leading an explosive offense. A 504-yard game in 2000 displayed his ability to take over when needed. While his tenure was debated, his contributions helped Kansas City stay competitive in the late 1990s.
Bill Kenney
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A rocket arm and a fearless approach made Bill Kenney a standout in the 1980s. Over 17,000 passing yards and a Pro Bowl nod in 1983 illustrated his ability. He provided stability in the most important position even in challenging seasons. Kenney’s name remains in the Chiefs’ record books, proving that talent and determination left a lasting legacy. His impact stretched beyond the numbers.
Dave Krieg
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Veteran leadership and late-game heroics kept Kansas City in the playoff hunt. Dave Krieg led the team to the postseason in 1992, proving age wasn’t a factor. His experience and ability to make big throws in pressure situations gave the Chiefs a strong presence under center. A reliable quarterback, a steadying force, and a competitor who helped keep Kansas City among the AFC’s best.