The 4 Shortest Quarterbacks in the NFL (2023)
In a league often dominated by towering figures, the NFL’s shortest quarterbacks are proving that height isn’t everything. As we pore over the opening day rosters of every NFL team, a fascinating pattern emerges: among the 75 quarterbacks listed, the four shortest stand at 6’0″ or below.
These athletes are challenging the traditional quarterback mold, demonstrating that skill, agility, and football intelligence can more than compensate for a lack of height.
In this article, we’ll shine a spotlight on these under-six-foot quarterbacks who are making a big impact on the field. From their unique perspectives on reading defenses to their impressive mobility in the pocket, these players are redefining what it means to lead an offense.
Shortest QBs in the NFL
| Name | Height | Team |
|---|---|---|
| Bryce Young | 5’10” | Carolina Panthers |
| Stetson Bennett | 5’11” | Los Angeles Rams |
| Russell Wilson | 5’11” | Denver Broncos |
| Jaren Hall | 6’0″ | Minnesota Vikings |
While the average height of a quarterback is over 6’2 1/2″, these four players are playing at the highest level despite being well under that average.
Bryce Young
- Height: 5’10”
- Team: Carolina Panthers
Drafted first overall by the Carolina Panthers, Bryce Young has quickly become one of the most talked-about quarterbacks in the NFL. At only 5’10”, he defies the traditional quarterback prototype with his remarkable skill set.
Young, a Heisman Trophy winner from the University of Alabama, is known for his exceptional ability to read defenses, make quick decisions, and execute precise throws. His agility and mobility allow him to extend plays, often turning challenging situations into opportunities.
Young’s collegiate success, characterized by his leadership and poise under pressure, suggests a bright future in the NFL, where his height is less a limitation and more a unique aspect of his dynamic play style.
Stetson Bennett
- Height: 5’11”
- Team: Los Angeles Rams
Selected in the 4th round by the Los Angeles Rams, Stetson Bennett’s journey to the NFL is a story of resilience and determination. Standing at 5 feet 11 inches, Bennett has consistently proven that height is not a barrier to success at the quarterback position.
His college career at the University of Georgia was marked by significant achievements, including leading the team to a national championship. Bennett is known for his quick decision-making, mobility, and ability to perform under pressure.
His journey from a walk-on to a scholarship athlete and now to an NFL draftee is inspirational, showcasing that with talent, hard work, and perseverance, physical stature can be transcended in the world of professional football.
Russell Wilson
- Height: 5’11”
- Team: Denver Broncos
Russell Wilson, at 5 feet 11 inches, is a testament to how sheer talent and determination can redefine the quarterback position. Before joining the Denver Broncos, Wilson had a successful tenure with the Seattle Seahawks, where he emerged as one of the NFL’s elite quarterbacks.
He is a Super Bowl champion and an eight-time Pro Bowler known for his exceptional playmaking ability, leadership, and football intelligence. Despite his height, Wilson’s ability to extend plays with his legs and his knack for making accurate, timely throws have set him apart.
His career is a clear indication that in the NFL, the heart and skill of a player can outshine traditional physical expectations.
Jaren Hall
- Height: 6’0″
- Team: Minnesota Vikings
Drafted in the 5th round by the Minnesota Vikings, Jaren Hall stands at an even 6 feet, a height considered slightly below the norm for NFL quarterbacks. Hall’s tenure at Brigham Young University (BYU) was marked by impressive performances, showcasing his strong arm and precise passing ability.
His mobility and quick decision-making on the field add a dynamic layer to his gameplay, allowing him to effectively maneuver in the pocket and create plays.
As Hall transitions to the professional arena, his college career sets the stage for potential success in the NFL, highlighting that skill and game intelligence can indeed make a significant impact, regardless of height.
Final Thoughts
In the NFL, where physical attributes are often seen as key determinants of success, these four quarterbacks stand as compelling evidence that height is not the sole factor in defining a player’s capability.
Bryce Young, Stetson Bennett, Russell Wilson, and Jaren Hall have each carved their own niche in the sport, overcoming traditional height stereotypes with their extraordinary skills and determination.
Their journeys, marked by significant achievements and inspiring resilience, challenge the conventional wisdom and remind us that talent, intelligence, and heart play an equally crucial role in the making of a successful quarterback.
