The Las Vegas Raiders, a team with a history and deep-rooted traditions in three different cities, also has had its fair share of talented, colorful and unique quarterbacks lead their team.
The Raiders have always embraced their past while eagerly looking toward the future. You’ll find quarterbacks on this list who rank as the best in Raiders history and embody the team’s resilient and rebellious nature. They’ve delivered moments of brilliance, orchestrated comebacks and brought heroics to a franchise known for its unique identity.
These quarterbacks’ tales of triumph, resilience, and unwavering spirit continue to inspire the team and its enthusiastic fanbase — Raider Nation.
Here’s a list of the Top 10 quarterbacks in Raiders franchise history, including Derek Carr.
Who is the best Raiders QB of all time? 10 best Las Vegas Raiders quarterbacks
No. 10: Kerry Collins (2004-05)
Collins, a veteran, added depth and a solid passing game to the Raiders roster. Despite facing challenges as a team during his tenure, Collins consistently showcased impressive statistical performances. His professionalism and skill set were highly commendable throughout his time with the team.
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No. 9: Tom Flores (1960-66)
Before his coaching career, Flores played a significant role as a quarterback for the Raiders. As their starting quarterback, he played an instrumental part in laying the foundation for the franchise’s early development. Flores’ deep understanding of the game set him up for success as a Super Bowl winner and future Pro Football Hall of Famer.
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No. 8: Carson Palmer (2011-12)
Although he had a short stint with the Raiders, Palmer made a notable impact on the team. He brought stability and veteran leadership to a transitioning squad. Palmer’s strong throwing arm and wealth of experience proved invaluable during his time with the Raiders.
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No. 7: Jeff Hostetler (1993-96)
Hostetler brought a winning mentality to the Raiders team. His participation in the Pro Bowl, when it still meant something, underscores how he successfully elevated the team’s offense during his short time, including a playoff berth and Wild Card win in his first season in the Silver and Black. His toughness and efficient style of play became defining characteristics during his career in a Raiders uniform.
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No. 6: George Blanda (1967-1975)
While primarily recognized as a kicker, Blanda also played a significant role as a quarterback for the Raiders. One of his memorable moments came during the 1970 season when he orchestrated several remarkable comebacks during late-game situations. The Associated Press named him the 1970 Male Athlete of the Year as he led the Raiders to the AFL Championship game, losing to the Baltimore Colts. Blanda’s longevity and versatility make him a beloved figure in Raiders history.
No. 5: Derek Carr (2014-2022)
- Derek Carr stats (Raiders career): 35,222 passing yards, 217 passing touchdowns, 91.8 QB rating, 64.6% completion rate, 6 rushing touchdowns
Carr, who most recently served as the face of the franchise through its move to Las Vegas, brought needed stability to the quarterback position. He shattered franchise records and earned multiple Pro Bowl nods with the team. Carr’s best season came in 2016 when the Raiders went 12-4 but lost in the Wild Card round of the playoffs after Carr broke his leg in the season finale. Carr only appeared in one playoff game in nine seasons, a 26-19 loss to the Cincinnati Bengals.
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No. 4: Jim Plunkett (1979-86)
Plunkett’s story is one of resilience and redemption. After being highly touted out of Stanford and a bust for the New England Patriots who drafted him, Plunkett found success and became a legend upon joining the Raiders. He led the Raiders to victory in two Super Bowls (XV and XVIII), and his ability to perform well under pressure became his trademark. Plunkett was also named Super Bowl XV MVP and still awaits his call to the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
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No. 3: Rich Gannon (1999-2004)
Gannon breathed life into the Raiders during their early 2000s resurgence. His remarkable resurgence from being an NFL journeyman (Minnesota and Kansas City before the Raiders) to one of the league’s top players culminated in winning the NFL MVP in 2002. That same year, Gannon guided Oakland to Super Bowl XXXVII. His passing accuracy and keen football intelligence made him one of the most effective quarterbacks of his time. Gannon’s impressive streak of four Pro Bowl selections with the Raiders also underscores how well he played as a Raider and what his contribution mean to his team.
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No 2: Daryle Lamonica (1967-1974)
Dubbed “The Mad Bomber” due to his long-range passes, Lamonica was pivotal in establishing the Raiders as a dominant AFL and NFL powerhouse. Under his leadership, the team made its first appearance in a Super Bowl, and he claimed two AFL MVP titles along the way. Lamonica’s extraordinary arm strength and aggressive style of play were truly ahead of their time and helped revolutionize the quarterback position and solidify him as a prominent figure in pro football history.
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No 1: Ken Stabler (1970-79) – Best Raiders QB ever
- Ken Stabler stats (Raiders’ career): 19,078 passing yards, 150 passing touchdowns, 69-26-1 record
Affectionately known as “Snake,” Stabler embodied everything Raider football stood for. He led the Raiders to their first Super Bowl win in 1977 and was renowned for his clutch performances and unshakeable composure. Stabler was crowned the NFL MVP in 1974 and earned Pro Bowl honors four times. His connection with the spirit of the Raiders was unparalleled, cementing his status as an iconic figure in the annals of Raiders history.
