When it comes to the NFL, quarterbacks are often some of the most celebrated and scrutinized players on the field. While skill and agility are important factors for any quarterback, size and strength can also play a significant role in their success.
In this article, we will explore some of the heaviest quarterbacks to ever play in the NFL. From towering giants to muscular powerhouses, these quarterbacks prove that size does matter in the game of football. Join me as we take a closer look at the heaviest quarterbacks in NFL history.
Heaviest Quarterbacks in the NFL
1. Jared Lorenzen
Jared Lorenzen was a former NFL quarterback who played for the New York Giants. He was known for his large size, weighing in at 285 pounds, making him the heaviest quarterback to play in the NFL. Lorenzen was nicknamed “Hefty Lefty” due to his weight and being left-handed.
Despite his size, Lorenzen did not see much playing time in the NFL, spending his entire career as a backup. However, he was part of the Giants’ Super Bowl-winning team in Super Bowl XLII.
After his NFL career, Lorenzen continued to play football in offshoot semipro teams and the Ultimate Indoor Football League, where he became commissioner.
Lorenzen’s weight was a lifelong battle, and he struggled with obesity throughout his life. In 2017, he weighed over 500 pounds and embarked on a healthier lifestyle to lose weight. Unfortunately, Lorenzen passed away in 2019 at the age of 38 due to complications from an infection.
Despite his limited success on the field, Lorenzen’s legacy lives on as a beloved figure in the football community. He was known for his larger-than-life personality, and his struggles with weight have inspired many to take control of their health.
2. JaMarcus Russell
JaMarcus Russell is widely regarded as one of the biggest draft busts in NFL history. Drafted by the Oakland Raiders in 2007 as the first overall pick, Russell’s weight was a concern from the beginning. He weighed in at 265 lbs (120 kg) during his playing career, making him one of the heaviest quarterbacks in NFL history.
Despite his size, Russell had a productive college career at LSU, where he finished 21-4 as a starter and was named MVP of the 2007 Sugar Bowl. However, his NFL career was plagued by inconsistency and poor performance. He played three seasons with the Raiders, starting in 25 games and completing only 52.1% of his passes for 18 touchdowns and 23 interceptions.
Russell’s weight continued to be a problem throughout his career. He reportedly weighed 290 lbs (132 kg) coming into training camp in 2010, which led to his release from the Raiders. He attempted a comeback in 2013, but his weight was still an issue and he was unable to secure a spot on an NFL roster.
Despite his lack of success in the NFL, Russell’s size and arm strength were impressive. He was able to throw the ball over 70 yards in the air and had the potential to be a dominant quarterback. However, his weight and work ethic ultimately held him back from reaching his full potential.
3. Bruce Eugene
Bruce Eugene, also known as the “Round Mound of Touchdown,” was a quarterback in the NFL who played for several teams during his career. Eugene was known for his massive size and weight, which made him one of the heaviest quarterbacks in NFL history.
At 6’0″ and 260 pounds, Eugene was a force to be reckoned with on the field. He was drafted by the New Orleans Saints in 2006 but was cut during the preseason. Eugene then bounced around between several teams in the CFL, NFL, and NFL Europa before eventually settling down with a coaching gig.
Despite his size, Eugene was surprisingly nimble on the field. He had a strong arm and was able to make accurate passes, which helped him become a fan favorite among those who appreciated his unique style of play.
One of Eugene’s most memorable performances came during a 2003 touchdown drive against Alcorn State. During the drive, Eugene showcased his impressive athleticism by running for a touchdown and then throwing for another one.
Overall, Bruce Eugene will always be remembered as one of the heaviest quarterbacks in NFL history. While he may not have had the most successful career, he was certainly a unique and entertaining player to watch on the field.
4. Cam Newton
Cam Newton is a well-known quarterback in the NFL, having played for teams such as the Carolina Panthers and the New England Patriots. He is also known for his impressive size and strength, weighing in at 245 pounds and standing at 6’5″ tall. Despite his size, Cam Newton is known for his speed and agility, making him a formidable opponent on the field.
Cam Newton’s size and strength have allowed him to become one of the most successful quarterbacks in the NFL. He holds the record for the most career quarterback rushing touchdowns in the league, and is second in career quarterback rushing yards. His ability to run the ball and make plays with his feet has made him a valuable asset to any team he plays for.
In addition to his impressive physical abilities, Cam Newton is also known for his leadership and work ethic. He is a dedicated athlete who is constantly working to improve his game and his team’s performance. His commitment to his craft has earned him the respect of his teammates and coaches, and has helped him achieve great success in the NFL.
As you can see, Cam Newton is a talented and formidable quarterback who has made a significant impact on the NFL. His size, strength, and speed have made him a valuable asset to any team, and his leadership and work ethic have earned him the respect of his peers.
5. Jameis Winston
Jameis Winston is a quarterback for the New Orleans Saints. He was drafted first overall by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the 2015 NFL Draft. Winston is known for his strong arm and ability to make big plays downfield.
At 6’4″ and 231 pounds, Winston is not one of the heaviest quarterbacks in the NFL, but he is still a solidly built player. He has a reputation for being tough and durable, having played through injuries throughout his career.
Winston’s career stats show that he is a capable quarterback, with over 19,000 passing yards and 121 touchdowns. However, he has also thrown 88 interceptions, which is a concern for some teams.
In 2021, Winston signed with the New Orleans Saints as a backup to Drew Brees. After Brees retired, Winston was expected to compete for the starting job with Taysom Hill. However, Winston suffered a season-ending knee injury in Week 9, which ended his season.
Despite the injury, Winston remains confident in his abilities and believes that he can still be a starting quarterback in the NFL. He will have the opportunity to prove himself in 2022, as he is expected to compete for the starting job once again.
Overall, Winston is a talented quarterback with a strong arm and the ability to make big plays. While he may not be one of the heaviest quarterbacks in the NFL, he is still a solidly built player who has proven himself capable of leading a team to victory.
6. Tim Tebow
Tim Tebow is a former NFL quarterback who played for the Denver Broncos and the New York Jets. He is known for his impressive physique and his ability to run the ball.
At 6’3″ and 245 pounds, Tebow was one of the heaviest quarterbacks in the NFL during his playing days. He was a powerful runner and often used his size and strength to gain extra yards on the ground.
Tebow’s size and running ability made him a unique quarterback in the NFL. He was able to break tackles and run over defenders, which made him a popular player among fans.
Despite his size and strength, Tebow struggled with accuracy as a passer. He completed only 47.9% of his passes during his NFL career, which limited his effectiveness as a quarterback.
With that said, Tim Tebow was one of the heaviest and most physical quarterbacks in the NFL during his playing days. While he struggled with accuracy as a passer, his size and strength made him a unique and exciting player to watch.
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FAQs – Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Who is the heaviest quarterback in NFL history?
Jared Lorenzen, also known as the “Hefty Lefty,” is considered the heaviest quarterback in NFL history. He weighed in at 320 pounds during his time with the New York Giants.
Q. Does being heavy make a quarterback better in the NFL?
While size and weight can be an advantage for a quarterback in terms of withstanding hits and delivering powerful throws, it is not the only factor that determines success in the NFL. Agility, speed, and accuracy are also important qualities for a quarterback to possess.
Q. Are there any current NFL quarterbacks who are considered heavy?
Yes, Cam Newton, who currently plays for the New England Patriots, is one of the heaviest quarterbacks in the NFL. He weighs in at 245 pounds.
Q. Why aren’t there more heavy quarterbacks in the NFL?
While size can be an advantage for a quarterback, it can also be a hindrance in terms of mobility and agility. Many NFL teams prefer quarterbacks who are able to move quickly and make agile movements on the field, which is why lighter quarterbacks are often favored.
Q. Can a heavy quarterback be successful in the NFL?
Yes, there have been several successful heavy quarterbacks in the NFL, including Jared Lorenzen, Cam Newton, and Byron Leftwich. However, success in the NFL is determined by a variety of factors, not just weight or size.
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Conclusion
The heaviest quarterbacks in NFL history have proven that size can be an asset on the football field. While agility and speed are important for any player, the ability to withstand hits and deliver powerful throws can be greatly enhanced by size and strength. From Jared Lorenzen to Cam Newton, these quarterbacks have shown that their weight is not a hindrance, but rather a unique advantage that sets them apart from their peers. As the NFL continues to evolve and players become bigger and stronger, it will be interesting to see how the role of size and weight will continue to impact the game.