Most Career Passing Yards by a Cleveland Browns Player

The Browns’ quarterback history is a mix of legendary greatness and head-scratching instability. From Otto Graham’s championships to Baker Mayfield’s revival run, and Brian Sipe’s MVP-caliber season in between, Cleveland’s QB legacy has seen every high and low imaginable. Here’s a look at the signal-callers who put up the biggest numbers in franchise history.

TOP 10 LIST

10. Vinny Testaverde – 7,255 Yards
Before becoming a journeyman starter across the league, Testaverde had a brief but productive stint in Cleveland. He brought a strong arm and veteran presence during the early ’90s.

9. Mike Phipps – 7,700 Yards
Drafted third overall in 1970, Phipps had an inconsistent run but remained a starter through much of the decade, helping keep the Browns competitive post-Frank Ryan.

8. Milt Plum – 8,914 Yards
One of the steadiest passers of the late ’50s and early ’60s, Plum brought quiet consistency and led the team during the transition from Graham’s era.

7. Bill Nelsen – 9,725 Yards
A fierce competitor with limited mobility, Nelsen toughed out injuries and helped the Browns stay relevant in the late 1960s. His toughness and leadership defined his era.

6. Tim Couch – 11,131 Yards
The No. 1 pick of the 1999 draft, Couch had the misfortune of joining an expansion-level roster. Despite the challenges, he gutted out several productive seasons and helped reintroduce football to Cleveland.

5. Frank Ryan – 13,361 Yards
Ryan is the last Browns quarterback to win an NFL Championship, doing so in 1964. A Rhodes Scholar with a cannon arm, he was a rare blend of intellect and physical talent.

4. Baker Mayfield – 14,125 Yards
Mayfield brought hope back to Cleveland, breaking the team’s playoff drought and energizing the fanbase. His tenure was fiery and sometimes erratic, but his production was undeniable.

3. Bernie Kosar – 21,904 Yards
Beloved by fans and born in Ohio, Kosar led the Browns to multiple playoff runs in the ’80s. His unorthodox throwing style didn’t matter — he got the job done and remains a Cleveland legend.

2. Otto Graham – 23,584 Yards
One of the greatest winners in football history, Graham led the Browns to 10 championship appearances in 10 seasons. His passing numbers were elite for his era, and he remains a Hall of Fame icon.

1. Brian Sipe – 23,713 Yards
The 1980 NFL MVP, Sipe led the Kardiac Kids and brought flair and late-game drama to Cleveland. His record still stands, though modern QBs are closing in fast.

Ranking the 10 best single-game passing yard performances in Cleveland Browns history

Top 50 Single-Game Passing Performances in Browns History

This chart shows every Browns player to record 300+ passing yards in a single game, including legends like Brian Sipe, Otto Graham, and Baker Mayfield.

From Hall of Famers to heartbreakers, the Browns’ quarterback leaderboard captures the full range of NFL history. Brian Sipe and Otto Graham set the standard, while Bernie Kosar and Baker Mayfield kept fans believing. With Deshaun Watson now under center, the next chapter is still being written — and another name might be climbing this list soon.

FAQ SECTION

Who holds the Browns record for most career passing yards?
Brian Sipe leads all Browns quarterbacks with 23,713 career passing yards.

Is Baker Mayfield high on the list?
Yes — Baker Mayfield ranks 4th with 14,125 yards, including a playoff win that broke a decades-long drought.

Are any Hall of Famers included?
Yes — Otto Graham, who ranks 2nd with 23,584 yards, is a Hall of Famer and one of the greatest quarterbacks of all time.

Want more records and rankings like this?
📲 Follow @sogfootball on Instagram — daily debates and stat drops.
🔗 Browse all NFL Records and Tier Lists on the site here.