Sports Then and Now

In the NFL there are certain uniform numbers that have special meaning and status. Thanks to Jim Brown, O.J. Simpson, Franco Harris and others, number 32 was synonymous with great running backs for many years. The number 88 has a place of honor in the wide receiver room of the Dallas Cowboys and even outside of Dallas has been worn by many all-time greats. But the number that is probably most associated with a position and greatness is the number 12. There are currently six Hall of Fame quarterbacks who wore the number 12 during their playing days. That number will certainly grow once Tom Brady and Aaron Rodgers take their rightful spots in the Hall of Fame in the next few years.

In honor of December 12 (12/12), we have ranked the top 12 quarterbacks who have worn the number 12 during their career.

1. Tom Brady

Widely regarded as the greatest quarterback in NFL history, Tom Brady redefined excellence with his longevity, success, and leadership. Over 23 seasons with the New England Patriots and Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Brady captured seven Super Bowl titles, more than any other player or franchise. He holds numerous records, including career passing yards, touchdowns, and playoff wins. Brady’s ability to excel in clutch situations and adapt to different systems made him the gold standard for quarterback play.

2. Roger Staubach

“Captain America” Roger Staubach was a cornerstone of the Dallas Cowboys during the 1970s, leading the team to two Super Bowl titles and six NFC Championship appearances. Known for his scrambling ability and poise under pressure, Staubach was a model of consistency and competitiveness. A Hall of Famer, he remains one of the most beloved players in Cowboys history.