Top 10 Quarterbacks in Patriots history

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7. Jim Plunkett

Tenure: 1971-1975

Record as starter: 23-38

Quick look at stats: 48.5 percent completion rate, 9,932 yards, 62 touchdowns, 87 interceptions, 59.7 rating

When the Patriots drafted Plunkett back in 1971, they were confident they had struck gold. After all, UCLA head coach Tommy Prothro had called Plunkett “the best pro quarterback prospect” he’d ever seen. Plunkett entered the league eager to display his arm strength and precision passing.

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A tier above the likes of Flutie, Taliaferro and Millen, Plunkett still ranks in the back of the pack because his time in New England was characterized largely by frustration and injuries, eventually leading to the end of Plunkett’s spell with the team when Steve Grogan appeared on the scene midway through the decade.

Plunkett is better known for his exploits after his time in New England. No one in 1975, when Plunkett left the Patriots, could make a case that Plunkett was Hall of Fame worthy; while he hasn’t been inducted and likely never will, there is an argument now that Plunkett has earned a pair of Super Bowl rings along with the Super Bowl XXV MVP trophy. After all, he’s the only eligible quarterback to start and win two Super Bowls who isn’t enshrined in Canton, Ohio.

Next: 6. Tony Eason