Bernie Kosar Quarterback Era

Lore & Background

Since joining the NFL in 1950, the Browns have had 69 quarterbacks start at least one game. Pro Football Hall of Famer Otto Graham led the Browns to three NFL championships in their first six seasons in the league. After resuming play in 1999 following a three-year suspension of operations, the franchise has been notable for its instability at the quarterback position. From 1999 through the mid 2025 season, the team has had 42 players start at quarterback, with only three seasons (2001 with Tim Couch, 2019 and 2020 with Baker Mayfield) in which the same quarterback started every game.

In Their Own Story

The wind howled off Lake Erie, biting at the faces of fans bundled in brown wool coats inside Richfield Coliseum. Bernie Kosar huddled with his offensive line, steam rising from their helmets into the freezing night air. He clapped his hands once, sharp and decisive. The crowd erupted as he broke the pocket, scanning downfield for a receiver streaking toward the end zone.

Reader's Guide

The number of regular season games each player started during the season is listed to the right. Quarterbacks who have started for the Cleveland Browns from the team's first NFL season of 1950 to present. A player is credited with a win if he started the game and the team won that game, no matter if the player was injured or permanently removed after the first play from scrimmage. Only regular season games are included. The Browns' All-America Football Conference games from 1946 to 1949 are not included. The Browns did not field a team from 1996 to 1998.

Did You Know?

• Brian Sipe holds the Browns record for most touchdown passes with 154.
• Brian Sipe holds the Browns record for most passing yards (23,713) and most interceptions (149).
• Baker Mayfield holds the Browns record for highest completion percentage (61.6%) and highest passer rating (87.8).