As the NFL regular season approaches its September start, passionate debates continue among fans. On Monday, July 14, 2026, NBC football analyst Chris Simms faced criticism after releasing a controversial ranking of the greatest quarterbacks of all time, focusing solely on their prime years.

Simms, 45, ranked New England Patriots legend Tom Brady lower than many expected, placing quarterbacks Josh Allen and Lamar Jackson ahead of Brady. This ranking surprised and angered many fans who consider Brady the greatest quarterback ever.

One fan on X criticized the list not for Brady's placement but for excluding another Pro Football Hall of Famer, Joe Montana, stating, "Any all-time list without the great Joe Montana is just trash and not to be taken seriously."

Other fans defended Brady's legacy, highlighting his remarkable prime: "Bro, Brady threw for 5,000 yards and 50 touchdowns and went 16-0 in his prime, and 14 years later he threw for 5,300 yards and 43 touchdowns. His prime lasted a decade and a half and was better than anyone’s peak."

Some questioned the criteria used for the list, while others reacted with disbelief and humor at Brady’s placement. The debate underscores the ongoing passion NFL fans have for quarterback rankings, even in the offseason.

Chris Simms, host of Sunday Football Night in America, continues to be a focal point in these discussions as fans weigh his assessments against their own views.

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