Winning a conference title in the NFL is one of the toughest accomplishments in professional sports, especially for a quarterback still early in his career. It requires not just talent, but leadership, composure, and the ability to perform under intense playoff pressure. The quarterbacks on this list achieved that milestone at remarkably young ages, setting themselves apart as rare early-career winners.
Dan Marino (1985)
Miami Dolphins quarterback Dan Marino looks to throw the ball against the San Francisco 49ers during Super Bowl XIX at Stanford Stadium. The 49ers defeated the Dolphins 38-16. Credit: Tony Tomsic-USA TODAY Sports
Age: 23 years, 127 days
Dan Marino burst onto the NFL scene with one of the most explosive passing seasons the league had ever seen, leading Miami to the AFC title game early in his career. His quick release, arm strength, and confidence made him almost impossible to defend at the time. Even at just 23, he played with the command of a veteran and redefined what a modern passing offense could look like. Marino’s early success set expectations that followed him throughout his Hall of Fame career.
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Drake Maye (2025)
New England Patriots quarterback Drake Maye (10) smiles after a touchdown pass during the fourth quarter against the Los Angeles Chargers in an AFC Wild Card Round game at Gillette Stadium. Credit: David Butler II-Imagn Images
Age: 23 years, 162 days
Drake Maye’s appearance on this list reflects a rapid rise fueled by poise, athleticism, and high-end arm talent. Winning a conference title at such a young age suggests he quickly earned trust as a franchise quarterback. His ability to extend plays while still attacking downfield made him a tough matchup for defenses. Accomplishing this milestone early positions him as a cornerstone player with massive upside.
Ben Roethlisberger (2006)
Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback (7) Ben Roethlisberger on the bench in street clothes after he left the game after getting injured in the third quarter against the Atlanta Falcons at the Georgia Dome. The Falcons defeated the Steelers in overtime 41-38. Credit: Photo by Dale Zanine USA TODAY Sports Copyright (c) 2006 Dale Zanine
Age: 23 years, 340 days
Ben Roethlisberger reached the Super Bowl early in his career by blending size, toughness, and improvisational skill. He wasn’t asked to do everything, but he consistently delivered in critical moments. His calm under pressure and ability to shrug off defenders became trademarks of his game. This early conference title win was a preview of a long, championship-level career.
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Brock Purdy (2024)
San Francisco 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy (13) passes the football against the Detroit Lions during the first quarter at Levi’s Stadium. Credit: Kyle Terada-Imagn Images
Age: 24 years, 46 days
Brock Purdy’s rise is one of the most unexpected success stories in modern NFL history. Known for efficiency, accuracy, and decision-making, he thrived in a system that rewarded timing and confidence. Despite lacking hype or elite draft status, he consistently elevated the offense around him. Winning a conference title at 24 cemented his legitimacy as more than just a feel-good story.
David Woodley (1983)
Miami Dolphins quarterback (16) David Woddley in action against the Washington Redskins during Super Bowl XVII at the Rose Bowl. The Redskins defeated the Dolphins 27-17. Credit: Photo By Manny Rubio-USA TODAY Sports © Copyright Manny Rubio
Age: 24 years, 97 days
David Woodley played during an era when quarterbacks were asked to manage games more than dominate them. His conference title run came through discipline, toughness, and leaning on team execution. While not as widely remembered as others on this list, his achievement still stands as a notable early-career milestone. Woodley’s success reflects how different styles of quarterbacking can still lead to championship moments.
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Conclusion
Miami Dolphins quarterback (13) Dan Marino drops to pass against the San Francisco 49ers during Super Bowl XIX at Stanford Stadium.The 49ers defeated the Dolphins 38-16. Credit: Photo By Manny Rubio-USA TODAY Sports
These quarterbacks prove that age is not always a barrier to success at the highest level of the NFL. Each player reached a conference title game victory by combining skill, confidence, and the trust of their team. Together, they represent how quickly greatness can emerge when preparation meets opportunity.
The post NFL: Youngest quarterback to win a conference title appeared first on The Big Lead.