No position in major sports draws more attention than quarterbacking for the Dallas Cowboys.
Since the 1970s, Dallas quarterbacks have been elevated to superstar status, expected to lead the team and earn the admiration of fans. While they haven’t had a QB bring home postseason success since Troy Aikman, many talented players have still taken on the role with pride.
Here’s a look at the top 10 quarterbacks who’ve proudly worn the iconic star on their helmets.
#1. Eddie Lebaron (1960-1963)
Eddie LeBaron earns his place as the Cowboys’ first-ever starting quarterback. Despite a winless debut season, LeBaron rebounded over his four-year stint and even secured a Pro Bowl selection, helping to establish the young franchise’s foundation.
Accolades: 5-22-1 record, 1x Pro Bowler
#2. Quincy Carter (2001-2003)
Drafted in the second round in 2001 as Troy Aikman’s successor, Quincy Carter had a mixed run with the Cowboys. Known for his struggles with decision-making, he threw more interceptions than touchdowns. However, Carter’s 2003 season stood out, with 17 passing touchdowns and 21 interceptions, leading Dallas to its first playoff appearance since 1999.
Accolades: 16-15 record
#3. Drew Bledsoe (2005-2006)
Drew Bledsoe’s time with the Cowboys may have been brief and unspectacular on the field, but it was significant for the franchise’s future. Serving as the bridge to Tony Romo, Bledsoe’s experience and leadership were instrumental in supporting Romo’s early development, setting the groundwork for his success.
Accolades: 12-10 record
#4. Craig Morton (1965-1974)
Craig Morton was picked in the first round of the 1965 NFL Draft and started his Cowboys career as Don Meredith’s backup. He took over as starting quarterback in 1969, leading the team to a 10-4 record and a spot in the playoffs. His biggest moment came in 1970 when he led the Cowboys to the Super Bowl, though they lost to the Baltimore Colts. Later, he won a Super Bowl as a backup to Roger Staubach.
Accolades: 32-14-1 record, 1x Super Bowl Champion
#5. Danny White (1976-1988)
Danny White won his only Super Bowl with the Cowboys as a punter, but he found great success as the starting quarterback after Roger Staubach retired. From 1980 to 1982, White led the Cowboys to five playoff appearances, including three straight trips to the NFC Championship game.
Accolades: 62-30 record, 1x Pro Bowler, 1x Super Bowl Champion
#6. Don Meredith (1960-1968)
Don Meredith was one of the original Cowboys and played a key role in establishing the team’s reputation in the 1960s. Known for his strong arm, toughness, and leadership, he led the Cowboys to consecutive NFL Championship games in 1966 and 1967. A true Cowboys fan will definitely know who Don Meredith is.
Accolades: 47-32-4 record, 3x Pro Bowler, Bert Bell Award.
#7. Tony Romo (2004-2016)
Tony Romo was celebrated for his impressive playmaking skills and ability to avoid sacks. He holds several Cowboys franchise records, including most passing yards, passing touchdowns, and game-winning drives.
Although he faced criticism for his playoff performance, winning only two playoff games, Romo was selected to the Pro Bowl four times and was known for his clutch performances during the regular season.
Accolades: 78-49 record, 4x Pro Bowler
#8. Dak Prescott (2016-Active)
Despite recent losses and lower performance, Dak Prescott’s talent remains undeniable, and these setbacks are a team effort rather than a reflection of his abilities. If his career ended today, he would rank second in franchise history for passing yards, touchdowns, and game-winning drives, and fourth in wins. Prescott made a strong impact in his rookie season, leading the Cowboys to a 13-3 record.
The team seemed to have found their new star quarterback. However, like Tony Romo, Prescott has only two playoff wins in five appearances so far.
Accolades: 73-41 record, 3x Pro Bowler, Offensive Rookie of the Year.
#9. Troy Aikman (1989-2000)
Troy Aikman wasn’t known for flashy statistics but for something far more significant: winning. He consistently rose to the occasion, playing his best in crucial moments and leading the Cowboys to three Super Bowl victories in four years.
Accolades: 94-71 record, 6x Pro Bowler, 3x Super Bowl Champion, 1x Super Bowl MVP, Hall of Fame Inductee.
#10. Roger Staubach (1969-1979)
Nicknamed “Roger the Dodger” and “Captain Comeback,” Staubach was known for stepping up in critical moments, leading 13 fourth-quarter comebacks and 21 game-winning drives. He is widely regarded as the best quarterback of his era, finishing his career with 22,700 passing yards, 153 touchdowns, and a passer rating of 83.4.
Accolades: 85-29 record, 6x Pro Bowler, 2x Super Bowl Champion, Super Bowl MVP, Bert Bell Award, Hall of Fame All-70’s Team, and Hall of Fame Inductee.
