NFL RecordsWhich NFL Draft Class Was the Best Ever?
NFL Draft Q&A
Quick Answer
1983 is the traditional answer — six quarterbacks went in the first round, several reaching the Hall of Fame. 1996, 2004 and 2011 are the other common picks.
Which NFL Draft Class Was the Best Ever?
The 1983 draft is the usual answer. Its first round contained six quarterbacks, and the class produced Hall of Fame careers at several positions.
The Usual Contenders
- 1983 — the quarterback class that defines the debate
- 1996 — exceptional depth well beyond round one
- 2004 — a strong quarterback group and durable skill players
- 2011 — the modern class most often cited
How to Judge It
Class quality is argued on three grounds: Hall of Fame inductees, total career production, and how deep into the rounds the value ran. Browse any class above to see every selection and where each player ended up.