Eagles Quarterbacks Guide: Past To Present

The Philadelphia Eagles, a professional American football team, have a rich history spanning over eight decades. Throughout their existence, the Eagles have had their fair share of talented quarterbacks, each leaving their mark on the team. In this article, we'll delve into the history of Eagles quarterbacks, from the past to the present, highlighting their achievements, struggles, and contributions to the team's success.
Early Years: The Founding Quarterbacks

The Eagles were founded in 1933, and in their early years, they had several quarterbacks who played a crucial role in shaping the team’s identity. One of the first notable quarterbacks was Red Kirkman, who played for the Eagles from 1933 to 1935. Kirkman was a talented passer who led the team to several victories during his tenure. Another early quarterback was Dave Smukler, who played from 1936 to 1938 and was known for his athleticism and scrambling ability.
The 1940s and 1950s: The Era of Tommy Thompson
The 1940s and 1950s are often referred to as the “Tommy Thompson era” in Eagles history. Thompson, a Hall of Fame quarterback, played for the Eagles from 1941 to 1949 and led the team to several championship appearances, including a NFL Championship in 1948. Thompson was known for his accuracy and leadership, and he remains one of the greatest quarterbacks in Eagles history.
Quarterback | Years Played | Notable Achievements |
---|---|---|
Red Kirkman | 1933-1935 | Led team to several victories |
Dave Smukler | 1936-1938 | Known for athleticism and scrambling ability |
Tommy Thompson | 1941-1949 | NFL Championship (1948), Hall of Fame |

Modern Era: The 1960s to 1980s

The 1960s to 1980s saw a new generation of quarterbacks emerge in Philadelphia. One of the most notable quarterbacks of this era was Roman Gabriel, who played for the Eagles from 1969 to 1972. Gabriel was a talented passer who led the team to several victories and was known for his strong arm and accuracy. Another notable quarterback of this era was Ron Jaworski, who played from 1977 to 1986 and was a key player in the team’s success during the 1980s.
The 1990s and 2000s: The Era of Donovan McNabb
The 1990s and 2000s are often referred to as the “Donovan McNabb era” in Eagles history. McNabb, a six-time Pro Bowl quarterback, played for the Eagles from 1999 to 2009 and led the team to several playoff appearances, including a NFC Championship in 2004. McNabb was known for his athleticism, arm strength, and leadership, and he remains one of the greatest quarterbacks in Eagles history.
Quarterback | Years Played | Notable Achievements |
---|---|---|
Roman Gabriel | 1969-1972 | Led team to several victories |
Ron Jaworski | 1977-1986 | Key player in team's success during the 1980s |
Donovan McNabb | 1999-2009 | Six-time Pro Bowl, NFC Championship (2004) |
Present Day: The Era of Jalen Hurts
The present day sees a new generation of quarterbacks in Philadelphia, led by Jalen Hurts. Hurts, a talented young quarterback, was drafted by the Eagles in 2020 and has quickly become a key player in the team’s offense. With his athleticism, arm strength, and leadership, Hurts has the potential to lead the Eagles to greatness in the years to come.
Quarterback Comparison
Here’s a comparison of the Eagles’ quarterbacks over the years, highlighting their passing yards, touchdowns, and interceptions:
Quarterback | Passing Yards | Touchdowns | Interceptions |
---|---|---|---|
Tommy Thompson | 10,326 | 91 | 103 |
Ron Jaworski | 26,069 | 175 | 151 |
Donovan McNabb | 32,872 | 216 | 117 |
Jalen Hurts | 4,000+ | 20+ | 10+ |
Who is the greatest quarterback in Eagles history?
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Donovan McNabb is often considered the greatest quarterback in Eagles history, with six Pro Bowl appearances and a NFC Championship in 2004.
How many quarterbacks have played for the Eagles?
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Over 50 quarterbacks have played for the Eagles since the team’s founding in 1933.
What is the most passing yards thrown by an Eagles quarterback in a single season?
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Donovan McNabb holds the record for most passing yards thrown by an Eagles quarterback in a single season, with 3,875 yards in 2004.