4,000-Yard NFL Passers

You win championships in the NFL with a strong running game and a punishing defense — that’s what Bill Parcells says, at least – but being able to throw the ball a little doesn’t hurt, either.

In 2007, a record seven of the league’s quarterbacks passed for 4,000 yards or more. (The previous high was five on three separate occasions, most recently in 2006.)

While those numbers are rising, 4,000 remains a fairly exclusive club. Through 2007, only 37 quarterbacks have hurdled the barrier, a total of 68 times.

Joe Namath of the Jets got it all started by throwing for 4,007 yards way back in 1967. Twelve years would pass before Dan Fouts of the Chargers passed for 4,082 yards in 1979. Indianapolis’ Peyton Manning personally accounts for eight 4,000-plus seasons.

Here’s the class of 2007:

Tom Brady, New England — 4,806

Drew Brees, New Orleans — 4,423

Tony Romo, Dallas — 4,211

Brett Favre, Green Bay — 4,155

Carson Palmer, Cincinnati, 4,131

Jon Kitna, Detroit — 4,068

Peyton Manning, Indianapolis — 4,040

Source: Pro Football Hall of Fame.com