Since 2020, only a small group of NFL quarterbacks have managed to reach the Super Bowl while still playing on their rookie contracts — a rare feat that speaks to both talent and early leadership. These young passers didn’t just benefit from team structure; they delivered under the brightest lights before cashing in on a second deal. Their runs show how quickly the right quarterback can change a franchise’s trajectory.
Drake Maye
New England Patriots quarterback Drake Maye (10) passes the ball against the Buffalo Bills in the second half at Gillette Stadium. Credit: David Butler II-Imagn Images
Drake Maye’s first NFL season saw him take the Patriots deep into the playoffs, culminating in a Super Bowl berth on his rookie contract — a rare and impressive feat for a young signal-caller. He showed poise beyond his years, guiding a revitalized New England offense with calm decision-making and improved accuracy. Maye’s early success has generated high expectations for sustained excellence and positioned him as a cornerstone of the franchise’s next era. Fans and analysts alike are watching closely to see if he can cap this rapid rise with a championship.
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Brock Purdy
San Francisco 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy (13) warms up before the start of the second half against the Seattle Seahawks in an NFC Divisional Round game at Lumen Field. Credit: Kevin Ng-Imagn Images
Selected last overall in the 2022 draft and dubbed “Mr. Irrelevant,” Brock Purdy defied all odds by leading the 49ers to Super Bowl LVIII as a rookie contract quarterback. He quickly transitioned from backup to franchise face, earning respect for his quick reads, toughness, and leadership under pressure. Although San Francisco came up short in overtime, Purdy’s poise and competitiveness in that run cemented his reputation as a top young leader. His journey from draft longshot to Super Bowl starter stands as one of the more remarkable arcs of recent NFL history.
Jalen Hurts
Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts (1) after the anthem against the San Francisco 49ers in an NFC Wild Card Round game at Lincoln Financial Field. Credit: Bill Streicher-Imagn Images
Jalen Hurts took the Eagles to the Super Bowl in just his second season as a starter — still on his rookie deal — showcasing a dual-threat blend of passing precision and explosive running. Hurts’ toughness in critical moments and his ability to elevate the play of his supporting cast helped Philadelphia’s balanced attack overpower opponents throughout the postseason. Though his team didn’t win that title game, his performance solidified him among the league’s elite young quarterbacks. The experience seemed to fuel his continued growth as a franchise cornerstone.
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Joe Burrow
Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow (9) leaves the field after a game against the Arizona Cardinals at Paycor Stadium. Credit: Katie Stratman-Imagn Images
Joe Burrow’s breakout arrived quickly in Cincinnati, as he engineered the Bengals’ first Super Bowl appearance in franchise history while still on his rookie contract. That postseason highlighted his calm under pressure, pinpoint accuracy, and leadership — traits that galvanized Cincinnati’s offense. Though they fell just short in the big game, Burrow’s impact as a rising superstar became clear to teammates and rivals alike. His early success laid the foundation for perennial contention in the AFC North.
Patrick Mahomes
Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes (15) talks to media after the Kansas City Chiefs defeated the Philadelphia Eagles in Super Bowl LVII at State Farm Stadium. Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports
Patrick Mahomes made his first Super Bowl appearance on his rookie contract with the Chiefs in 2020, marking the beginning of what would become one of the most prolific quarterback careers in NFL history. Even though that initial title game ended in a loss, Mahomes’ transcendent arm talent, improvisational skill, and leadership were on full display. He would return to Super Bowls multiple times thereafter, winning multiple championships and redefining the modern MVP-caliber passer. His early Super Bowl runs set the tone for a franchise dynasty.
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Conclusion
San Francisco 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy (13) speaks with Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts (1) after an NFC Wild Card Round game at Lincoln Financial Field. Credit: Eric Hartline-Imagn Images
Looking at this group of quarterbacks, a clear theme emerges: exceptional talent paired with the ability to elevate those around them can fast-track even the youngest quarterbacks to the Super Bowl. While not all of these appearances ended in championships, each season in the big game shaped the narrative of a rising star and hinted at future potential. From Mahomes’ early stamp on the Chiefs to Purdy’s and Maye’s surprise runs, teams that draft and develop quarterbacks well — and give them the right supporting cast — can turn inexpensive contracts into contention windows. As we watch the next crop of young QBs enter the league, these examples stand as proof that elite play and leadership can make a Super Bowl appearance possible even before the first big contract extension hits.
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