Ranking the top 50 quarterbacks in NFL history…
21. Troy Aikman
Drafted first overall by the Dallas Cowboys in 1989 out of UCLA, Aikman endured a rocky 0-11 rookie season but soon formed the “Triplets” with Emmitt Smith and Michael Irvin, transforming the franchise. He led Dallas to three Super Bowl wins in four years (XXVII, XXVIII, XXX), earning MVP in XXVII with 273 yards and four touchdowns in a 52-17 rout of Buffalo.
Over 12 seasons, all with Dallas, Aikman earned six Pro Bowl selections and set Cowboys records with 2,898 completions, 32,942 yards and 165 touchdowns. His peak came in the 1990s, posting a flurry of winning seasons and leading the NFL in completion percentage (69.1 percent) in 1993. Concussions forced retirement in 2000.
Aikman’s career totals feature a 61.5 percent completion rate and 94 wins, with an 11-5 playoff record highlighting his efficiency in Jimmy Johnson’s system. He ranks among the top for postseason passer rating (88.3).
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Aikman’s standout attributes were his pinpoint accuracy, leadership and poise, making him a cerebral field general who rarely forced throws.
Though criticized for modest stats compared to volume passers, his team success and 2006 Hall of Fame induction affirm Aikman’s legacy as a winner.
Nowadays, Aikman thrives as a FOX broadcaster and entrepreneur.
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