As fantasy football enthusiasts well know, the quarterback (QB) is a lynchpin of any successful fantasy team. With the 2021 NFL season offering a wealth of highlights, let’s recall the prowess of the top signal callers who dominated fantasy leagues that year. Keeping tabs on these top-performing QBs was essential for any fantasy owner looking to clinch their league title. From the dual-threat dynamism of the young guns to the seasoned poise of veteran arms, here are the top 10 fantasy quarterbacks of 2021.
#10 Kirk Cousins – Minnesota Vikings
Kirk Cousins may not be the flashiest name in the pantheon of NFL quarterbacks, but in 2021, he was a bastion of consistency for fantasy managers. Cousins ended the season with 33 touchdown passes and just 7 interceptions, exemplifying efficiency. Besides, his rapport with receiver Justin Jefferson provided numerous high-scoring opportunities, making him a reliable weekly starter and a sneaky good fantasy play.
#9 Dak Prescott – Dallas Cowboys
Returning from a brutal ankle injury that curtailed his 2020 campaign, Dak Prescott bounced back in emphatic fashion. With an arsenal of weapons at his disposal, including CeeDee Lamb and Amari Cooper, Prescott tallied up impressive numbers. Despite a slight mid-season dip in form, he finished the season strong, reminding fantasy owners why he’s often considered among the upper echelon of fantasy QBs.
#8 Matthew Stafford – Los Angeles Rams
Transitioning to the Los Angeles Rams in 2021 reinvigorated Matthew Stafford’s career and, by extension, his fantasy relevance. Stafford’s powerful arm and Sean McVay’s innovative offense led to one of his most productive seasons, as evidenced by his league-leading 41 touchdown passes. Teaming up with Cooper Kupp, Stafford provided fantasy owners with copious points, making him a top-ten lock.
#7 Aaron Rodgers – Green Bay Packers
Even at an age when most quarterbacks are considering retirement, Aaron Rodgers was playing some of his best football in 2021. The reigning MVP delivered yet another masterful season, showcasing elite accuracy and decision-making. Although he missed a game due to COVID-19 protocols, Rodgers’ performance as the Packers’ field general was a boon to fantasy teams, thanks to his penchant for multiple-touchdown games.
#6 Lamar Jackson – Baltimore Ravens
Lamar Jackson’s unique skill set continued to pose a nightmare for NFL defenses and a dream for fantasy managers in 2021. His dual-threat capability meant he contributed heavily on the ground as well as through the air. Although his passing numbers were not the most gaudy, his rushing yards and ability to escape pressure for big gains kept his fantasy stock high throughout the season.
#5 Kyler Murray – Arizona Cardinals
The Arizona Cardinals’ dynamo, Kyler Murray, had a scorching start to the 2021 season, with his agility and improvisational plays making him a fantasy standout. While a midseason injury slowed him down, Murray’s running ability and growing chemistry with DeAndre Hopkins (before Hopkins’ own injury) made him one of the most exciting and high-scoring quarterbacks in the league.
#4 Patrick Mahomes – Kansas City Chiefs
Patrick Mahomes, the former MVP and Super Bowl champion, didn’t have his best statistical season in 2021 but still delivered plenty of fantasy gold. Mahomes’ ability to extend plays and his penchant for thrilling comebacks ensured that his fantasy impact was undeniable. Despite a surprising number of interceptions, his arm talent and high-powered offense kept him among the fantasy elite.
#3 Tom Brady – Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Defying father time, Tom Brady led the NFL in passing yards and touchdowns in his age-44 season. The indefatigable quarterback of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers leveraged his wealth of receiving options to dismantle defenses week after week. His consistent production and leadership on a high-scoring offense made him one of the safest and most prolific fantasy quarterbacks in 2021.
#2 Josh Allen – Buffalo Bills
Josh Allen continued to ascend the ranks of NFL quarterbacks in 2021, combining raw power with improved finesse. As the heartbeat of the Buffalo Bills’ explosive offense, Allen’s cannon arm and bulldozing rushing style racked up substantial fantasy points. Allen thrived in high-pressure situations, delivering clutch performances that not only elevated his team but solidified his role as a fantasy titan.
#1 Justin Herbert – Los Angeles Chargers
In only his second season, Justin Herbert emerged as the top fantasy quarterback of 2021. The Los Angeles Chargers’ signal-caller ousted the competition with his sheer passing volume, ability to rack up touchdowns, and low turnover rate. Herbert’s arm strength and confidence in a quarterback-friendly system under head coach Brandon Staley translated into fantasy dominance, making him 2021’s fantasy jewel.
The 2021 fantasy football season was a testament to the impact of top-tier quarterbacks. While this list reflects past performances, savvy fantasy managers always keep an eye out for patterns that could indicate who might top the charts in the future. Whether it’s the steady hand of a veteran or the electric play of an up-and-comer, quarterback prowess remains key to claiming fantasy glory.