By Darin Hayes 
The Undisputed GOAT Number: Ranking the Best NFL Players to Ever Wear No. 12
For certain jersey numbers in the NFL, the debate for the greatest player is fierce, but then there’s No. 12. This iconic number is essentially reserved for gridiron royalty, a select fraternity of legendary quarterbacks whose dominance spans over five decades. From Super Bowl rings and MVP trophies to unforgettable moments that defined entire franchises, the athletes who donned the number 12 have set an unparalleled standard for excellence at the sport’s most critical position.
The sheer volume of Hall of Famers and all-time greats to wear the number 12 makes it one of the most historically significant in all of sports. But in a group this talented—featuring multi-ring champions and statistical titans—who truly rises to the top? Prepare for the ultimate debate as we break down the most accomplished and greatest NFL players to wear the legendary number 12 jersey in history.
The Top NFL Players in History to Wear the Number 12 Jersey
- Tom Brady (QB): Seven-time Super Bowl Champion. DO we need to say more about the GOAT?
- Roger Staubach (QB): With two Lombardi Trophies, 6 Pro Bowls, and a Heisman, this #12 rocked.
- Terry Bradshaw (QB): The Blonde Bomber helped the Steelers win 4 Super Bowls in 6 years.
- Aaron Rodgers (QB): A Super Bowl Champ and one of the best pure passers in NFL history.
- Joe Namath (QB): The promise he made in SB III is only part of this legend’s story
- Jim Kelly (QB): He guided the Bills to four straight title games with a hurry-up explosive offense.
- Bob Griese (QB)
- Ken Stabler (QB)
- Guy Chamberlin (T)
Randall Cunningham (QB)
Doug Williams (QB)
John Brodie
Joe Ferguson
Charley Johnson
Rich Gannon
Marques Colston
Andrew Luck
Chris Chandler
Don Cockroft
Lynn Dickey
Gus Frerotte
Stan Humphries
Chris Miller
Vinny Testaverde
Tony Banks
Erik Kramer
Mohamed Sanu
Trent Dilfer
James Harris
Percy Harvin
Michael Jenkins
Jacoby Jones
Errol Mann
Josh McCown
Steve Smith
Other Legends of the NFL Jersey 12
Conclusion
To conclude, the number 12 jersey represents the most elite and quarterback-heavy lineage in NFL history. While other numbers boast legends at various positions, the unparalleled concentration of Super Bowl MVPs, league MVPs, and Pro Football Hall of Famers wearing No. 12 is staggering. From the trailblazing flair of Joe Namath and the steel-city dominance of Terry Bradshaw, to the cool command of Roger Staubach and the grit of Jim Kelly, this number served as a beacon for championship football through multiple eras.
Ultimately, however, the debate for the jersey’s greatest is settled by the man who redefined the position’s limits. Tom Brady’s seven Super Bowl rings, numerous records, and unprecedented longevity firmly cement him as the greatest player to ever wear number 12, an undisputed legacy atop the most celebrated number in the game. When fans see the “12” on the field, they are not just seeing a number—they are seeing a standard of greatness achieved by only the most legendary leaders the NFL has ever known.
You might want to check out more of our jersey lists like this one: Top NFL Players Who Wore Number 11.