Top QB-Receiver TD Combos in NFL History
One of the most popular teammate-related quizzes is NFL 20+ Passing TD Teammates – here are the top 10 QB/receiver hookups in NFL history.
Peyton Manning & Marvin Harrison – 112 TDs
Peyton Manning and Marvin Harrison are considered one of the most prolific quarterback-receiver duos in NFL history. Playing together for the Indianapolis Colts from 1998 to 2008, they developed an almost telepathic connection on the field. Over their time together, they connected for 112 touchdown passes, setting the NFL record. Harrison’s precise route running and reliable hands combined perfectly with Manning’s accuracy and football IQ. This duo was instrumental in the Colts’ dominance in the 2000s, including their Super Bowl XLI victory. Their bond on the field is still a benchmark for QB-receiver chemistry in the NFL.
Tom Brady & Rob Gronkowski – 90 TDs
Tom Brady and Rob Gronkowski formed one of the most unstoppable partnerships in NFL history. With Gronkowski’s size, speed, and strength, he was a mismatch for any defender, while Brady’s pinpoint accuracy allowed them to connect for 90 touchdowns, the most by any quarterback-tight end duo. The pair played together primarily with the New England Patriots, leading to multiple Super Bowl victories. Their chemistry was undeniable, and even after Gronkowski’s brief retirement, they reunited with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers to win another championship in Super Bowl LV.
Philip Rivers & Antonio Gates – 89 TDs
Philip Rivers and Antonio Gates were a dominant force for the San Diego Chargers for over a decade. Gates, a former college basketball player, became one of the greatest tight ends in NFL history, thanks largely to his connection with Rivers. Together, they combined for 89 touchdowns, the second-most for a QB-tight end duo in NFL history. Gates’ ability to use his body to shield defenders and make tough catches in the end zone was complemented by Rivers’ gunslinger mentality. Their partnership was the key to many successful Chargers seasons.
Steve Young & Jerry Rice – 85 TDs
The combination of Steve Young and Jerry Rice is iconic, as both are Hall of Famers and legends of the game. Playing together for the San Francisco 49ers, they connected for 85 touchdowns during the 1990s, a period that saw them win multiple championships, including a Super Bowl victory in 1995. Rice’s extraordinary talent as a receiver, paired with Young’s dual-threat abilities as a passer and runner, made them a nightmare for defenses. Rice, often regarded as the greatest receiver of all time, thrived under Young’s leadership, making them one of the most lethal duos in history.
Dan Marino & Mark Clayton – 79 TDs
Dan Marino and Mark Clayton were an electric duo for the Miami Dolphins throughout the 1980s and early 1990s. Marino, one of the most prolific passers in NFL history, utilized his quick release and powerful arm to find Clayton down the field, where the receiver’s speed and playmaking ability stood out. Together, they connected for 79 touchdowns, making them one of the most productive QB-receiver tandems of their era. Although the Dolphins didn’t capture a Super Bowl during their time, the Marino-Clayton connection remains one of the most memorable in NFL history.
Ben Roethlisberger & Antonio Brown – 73 TDs
Ben Roethlisberger and Antonio Brown were a dynamic duo for the Pittsburgh Steelers in the 2010s. Brown’s elite route running and ability to make difficult catches, combined with Roethlisberger’s arm strength and ability to extend plays, allowed them to connect for 73 touchdowns. Brown’s work ethic and football intelligence made him one of the best receivers of his generation, while Roethlisberger’s improvisational style enabled the pair to make countless highlight-reel plays. Their connection was key to several successful Steelers seasons, though their partnership ended on a sour note due to off-field issues.
Drew Brees & Marques Colston – 72 TDs
Drew Brees and Marques Colston were the cornerstone of the New Orleans Saints’ high-flying offense for much of the 2000s and 2010s. Brees, one of the most accurate passers in NFL history, found a perfect partner in Colston, a big-bodied receiver with great hands and the ability to make catches in traffic. Together, they connected for 72 touchdowns, helping the Saints to multiple playoff appearances and a Super Bowl victory in 2009. Colston was Brees’ go-to target in critical moments, and their connection was one of the best in the league for years.
Aaron Rodgers & Davante Adams – 68 TDs
Aaron Rodgers and Davante Adams were one of the most feared duos in the NFL during their time together with the Green Bay Packers. Adams’ ability to get open with sharp route running and his chemistry with Rodgers helped them connect for 68 touchdowns. Rodgers’ pinpoint accuracy and Adams’ elite ability to create separation made them a nightmare for defenses. While their time together ended with Adams’ trade to the Raiders, their connection remains one of the most memorable in Packers history.
Peyton Manning & Reggie Wayne – 67 TDs
Peyton Manning appears twice on this list, this time with Reggie Wayne, his longtime partner with the Indianapolis Colts. Manning and Wayne connected for 67 touchdowns during their time together, forming a reliable and consistent duo. Wayne’s versatility and ability to perform in clutch situations made him one of Manning’s most trusted targets. Their partnership was instrumental in the Colts’ consistent playoff appearances throughout the 2000s, culminating in a Super Bowl victory in 2007.
Aaron Rodgers & Jordy Nelson – 65 TDs
Aaron Rodgers and Jordy Nelson were one of the NFL’s most efficient duos, connecting for 65 touchdowns during their time together with the Green Bay Packers. Nelson’s deep-threat ability and precise timing with Rodgers allowed them to score in bunches. Whether it was deep passes down the sideline or perfectly timed throws in the red zone, Rodgers and Nelson had an undeniable chemistry. Their connection was critical to the Packers’ Super Bowl victory in 2011 and multiple playoff runs throughout their time together.
