
Before making a name for himself in the AFL with the Oakland Raiders, Daryle Lamonica was an up-and-coming quarterback with the Buffalo Bills, where he was drafted in the 24th round. With his powerful arm and quick release, Lamonica earned the nickname “The Mad Bomber” for his ability to launch deep passes downfield and stretch opposing defenses. While his stint in Buffalo was brief, his undeniable talent and impressive skill set provided a glimpse of the quarterback prowess that would later define his storied career. Lamonica’s time in Buffalo remains a testament to the franchise’s ability to identify and develop talent.
Ryan Fitzpatrick was initially brought to Buffalo as a backup quarterback, but he soon found himself in a starting role due to an injury. He quickly won over fans with his fierce competitive spirit and recognizable beard. As a seventh-round draft pick, Fitzpatrick overcame the odds and made the most of his opportunity in Buffalo, showcasing a remarkable blend of scrappiness, intelligence, and determination. In 2011, he earned the title of AFC Offensive Player of the Month for his impressive performances, solidifying his place among the Bills’ faithful. Fitzpatrick’s time in Buffalo is fondly remembered by fans who admired his fearless grit and contagious enthusiasm.
Tyrod Taylor, a dual-threat quarterback known for his strong arm and quick footwork, revitalized the Buffalo Bills’ offense after signing as a free agent. Renowned for his versatility, Taylor was capable of connecting with receivers downfield while also evading defenders with his impressive agility. His energetic performances earned him a Pro Bowl selection and the admiration of Bills fans everywhere. Under Taylor’s leadership, the team made its first playoff appearance since the 1999 season, adding another memorable chapter to the organization’s storied history.
Drew Bledsoe arrived in Buffalo through a trade, bringing a wealth of experience and leadership to the Bills. His mighty arm allowed him to stretch defenses downfield, while his accuracy and poise in the pocket made him an invaluable asset to the team. Bledsoe quickly became the franchise’s cornerstone, earning a Pro Bowl selection in his first season. Although he never led the Bills to the postseason, his impact extended beyond the field; he helped usher in a new era for Buffalo that still resonates today. Bledsoe’s unwavering determination and ability to make big throws will always be celebrated by the Bills Mafia.
Frank Reich is best known for his legendary comeback against the Houston Oilers, where he, as a backup quarterback, played a crucial role in writing an iconic chapter in Bills history. Drafted in the third round, Reich showcased exceptional skills in reading defenses, making wise decisions, and executing clutch passes. Although he often played in the shadow of Hall of Famer Jim Kelly, Reich’s calm demeanor and steadfast determination were invaluable to the team’s success during their four consecutive Super Bowl appearances. To this day, his name is synonymous with resilience and unwavering spirit.
Despite his small stature, Doug Flutie’s tenacious spirit and natural agility made him an exciting playmaker during his time with the Bills. Signed as a free agent, Flutie quickly showcased his never-give-up attitude and remarkable ability to create plays out of seemingly impossible situations, winning the hearts of Buffalo fans in the process. A Pro Bowler and recipient of the Comeback Player of the Year award while with the team, Flutie’s dynamic playing style and unique skill set epitomized the essence of the Bills’ fighting spirit. His memorable “Flutie Magic” moments will forever be etched in the history of the franchise. And who can forget Flutie Flakes!
In 1973, Joe Ferguson established himself as a durable and reliable quarterback for the Buffalo Bills, ultimately enjoying a long and successful career with the team. Over his tenure, he started 163 games and achieved remarkable statistics, throwing for 27,590 yards, which ranks second in franchise history, along with 181 touchdown passes, also second in the franchise. It’s essential to highlight Ferguson’s toughness; he played when quarterbacks received less protection than today. Notably, in the 1980 season, he led the Bills to the playoffs while battling a broken ankle.
One of the team’s first true stars at the quarterback position, Jack Kemp was instrumental to the Buffalo Bills’ success during the 1960s, leading them to two AFL championships. His leadership and on-field performance earned him the AFL Most Valuable Player award in 1965 after he guided the Bills to a 23-0 victory in the championship game against the Chargers. Kemp’s 15,134 passing yards rank fourth in team history, and his 77 touchdown passes rank fifth. Not only did he bring two championships to the team, but his exceptional production performance also secures his place in the top three.
Josh Allen, the quarterback for the Buffalo Bills, is a unique combination of a potent passer and a surprisingly strong runner. His impressive size and athleticism have made him the face of the Bills’ resurgence as a consistent playoff contender. From 2019 to present, Buffalo has made the playoffs yearly with Allen as their starting quarterback. Over his tenure, he has rewritten the record books. Allen has achieved four consecutive 4,000-yard passing seasons, a feat never accomplished by any other player in Bills history. Allen looked like a potential bust early in his career, but that all has changed and now he looks headed for number one on this list.
Jim Kelly is the only Buffalo Bills quarterback inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. He led the team to four consecutive Super Bowl appearances in the 1990s, a remarkable achievement that remains unmatched in NFL history. Although the Bills did not win a Lombardi Trophy then, Kelly left a significant mark on the league. He was known for his leadership and skill in running the Bills’ “K-Gun” no-huddle offense, which helped revolutionize the passing game in that era. Kelly finished his career with a record of 101 wins and 59 losses as a starter and holds several team records in major passing categories, including yards (35,467), touchdown passes (237), completions (2,874), and game-winning drives (28).
The Bills franchise was in horrific shape until 1986 when Jim Kelly showed up fresh off a great stint with the Houston Gamblers of the USFL. The Bills were in the AFC Championship game two years later. Kelly goes down as one of the Greatest Buffalo Bills of all time.
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