Ranking the top 50 quarterbacks in NFL history…

44. Jim Plunkett

Drafted first overall by the New England Patriots in 1971 out of Stanford University, where he won the Heisman Trophy in 1970, Plunkett endured early career struggles marked by injuries and poor team support, but ultimately forged a resilient legacy as a two-time Super Bowl champion.

In five seasons with the Patriots (1971-1975), Plunkett threw for 9,932 yards and 62 touchdowns, but a 23-38 record and constant physical toll led to a trade to the San Francisco 49ers in 1976. There, over two years, he added 3,702 yards and 19 scores, yet more injuries and a 13-15 mark prompted his release in 1978.

Signing with the Oakland Raiders as a backup, Plunkett’s career revived dramatically in 1980 when he replaced an injured Dan P

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