I love to talk about the NFL. Even if you’re not a fan, it’s impossible not to be impressed by the sheer skill and talent exemplified by its players. Like many Football fanatics, I’ve always wanted to know who holds the record for the most touchdowns passes in NFL history.
Well, that one’s easy to answer. The legendary quarterback Peyton Manning holds all-time records for both passing yards and touchdowns thrown in a career. With a jaw-dropping 539 touchdown passes in his career, Manning is without a doubt the all-time leader in this category. What an incredible feat! Just thinking about it makes me feel all tingly.
It’s no surprise that Manning is the touchdown king. After all, he was the starting quarterback for the Indianapolis Colts and Denver Broncos for a combined 19 seasons. During that time, he led both teams to multiple championships and his teams made the playoffs countless times. His most productive season was in 2013, when he set a new NFL record for most touchdowns passes in a season with 55.
That’s not the only record to his name, though. Manning also holds the record for the most touchdown passes thrown in a single game: seven! You can only imagine the sheer greatness of his game that night; it must have been a show like no other. Manning’s passing was so impressive, he was awarded the NFL MVP award a record five times.
In addition to his brilliant passing, Manning was also known for his leadership and determination on the field. His sheer will to win is palpable; his teammates recall anecdotes of him inspiring and motivating them to perform to their best. He even coined a famous line: “Omaha!”.
Despite having to retire from the NFL in 2015 due to injuries, Manning will always be remembered for his football mastery. His legendary 539 touchdown passes will remain unrivaled, as the second all-time quarterback, New Orleans Saints’ Drew Brees, has only 356 touchdowns under his belt.
I have so much respect for Manning and the NFF, for bringing us such a remarkable talent and never-ceasing passion for sport. I’m sure that every football fan, like myself, can agree that Manning is, and probably always will be, the king of NFL touchdown passes.
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Aside from Manning, there are other quarterbacks who have made a name for themselves due to their passing prowess. Tom Brady of the New England Patriots is one of them. Brady has been consistently one of the best quarterbacks in the NFL for the past two decades. He owns four Super Bowl rings, and has also won three Super Bowl MVP awards. Brady is second in career touchdown passes with 517 and could one day pass Manning’s record.
Another quarterback worthy of mention is Brees, who has thrown 406 touchdown passes in the 15 seasons leading up the 2021 season. Brees could potentially become the leader in the category if Brady doesn’t pass Manning first. His longevity in the NFL is impressive, and has been a consistent, reliable starter for 16 seasons.
Brett Favre is also a notable name. He holds the all-time records for total passing yards and consecutive games with a touchdown pass. Favre’s tally of 508 career touchdowns passes is third in NFL history. His ability to make big plays in crunch time and his record-breaking performances sparked the National Football League into the new millennium.
Of course, I can’t end this discussion without mentioning Dan Marino. Despite never winning a Super Bowl ring, Marino was one of the most influential quarterbacks ever. During his peak times, he helped in pushing the passing game to further heights with his no-huddle offense and throwing ability. Well-known for his quick release, Marino threw 79,471 yards and 420 touchdowns during his storied career.
Finally, there’s Johnny Unitas. His no-nonsense way of playing football instilled a sense of fire into the game. He led the Baltimore Colts to two NFL championships and three major titles. Unitas threw 40 touchdown passes in 1959 alone; a record that stood for 32 years. He ended his career with 40,239 yards and 287 touchdown passes.
I’ve discussed some of the best quarterbacks in NFL history and their records for touchdown passes. Sure, Manning is still the best of them all, but all of the mentioned players are equally worthy of respect and admiration. All of them have the common goal of making the game of football as exciting and entertaining as possible.