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What Is Passer Rating?
The NFL passer rating is a numerical score that evaluates quarterback performance on a scale from 0 to 158.3. It was adopted by the NFL in 1973 and combines four key passing statistics: completion percentage, yards per attempt, touchdown percentage, and interception percentage. Each component is scaled and capped before being combined into a single rating.
While passer rating has limitations (it does not account for rushing, sacks, or game situation), it remains the official NFL metric for quarterback efficiency and is widely used in broadcasting, record books, and contract negotiations. A perfect passer rating of 158.3 has been achieved in individual games but never over a full season.
The NFL Passer Rating Formula
Each component (a, b, c, d) is capped between 0 and 2.375 before combining.
Rating Benchmarks
| Rating | Performance Level |
|---|---|
| 120+ | Elite / Outstanding game |
| 100-119 | Excellent |
| 90-99 | Great |
| 80-89 | Good / Above Average |
| 70-79 | Average |
| Below 70 | Below Average / Poor |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a perfect passer rating?
A perfect NFL passer rating is 158.3. This requires a completion percentage of at least 77.5%, at least 12.5 yards per attempt, a touchdown percentage of at least 11.875%, and zero interceptions. The seemingly odd number results from the formula's mathematical structure.
Who has the highest career passer rating?
As of recent seasons, Patrick Mahomes and Aaron Rodgers have the highest career passer ratings in NFL history, both exceeding 100.0. The career record has been broken multiple times as the modern passing game has evolved.
Is passer rating the same as QBR?
No. QBR (Quarterback Rating) is ESPN's proprietary metric that incorporates additional factors like rushing, sacks, fumbles, and game situation. The NFL passer rating is the traditional formula using only passing statistics. QBR scales from 0 to 100, while NFL passer rating scales from 0 to 158.3.