2024 NFL Playoff Contenders: Ranking Backup QBs Ready To Lead

David

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Post on May 31, 2025

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2024 NFL Playoff Contenders: Ranking Backup QBs Ready to Lead

The NFL season is a marathon, not a sprint, and even the most meticulously planned rosters can be derailed by injuries. With the 2024 season looming, several playoff contenders find themselves relying heavily on the strength of their backup quarterbacks. A single injury could dramatically shift the power dynamics of the league. So, who are the backup QBs most likely to step up and deliver when their number is called? We've ranked them, considering experience, talent, and the supporting cast around them.

Methodology: This ranking considers a combination of factors, including the backup quarterback's past performance, their skillset, the overall strength of their team's roster, and the likelihood of the starting quarterback suffering a significant injury.

Tier 1: The Elite Second-Stringers

1. Brock Purdy (San Francisco 49ers): Purdy’s late-season surge in 2022 proved he’s more than capable of leading an offense. Despite a significant injury, his resilience and arm talent make him a top contender for this list. The 49ers' potent offensive line and running game offer significant support, making Purdy a serious threat if he's called upon.

2. Jordan Love (Green Bay Packers): After years of learning behind Aaron Rodgers, Love finally gets his chance to shine. His arm strength and mobility are undeniable, but the success of the Packers' season will largely depend on his ability to adapt and lead the team. The supporting cast is solid but not as dominant as San Francisco's.

3. Desmond Ridder (Atlanta Falcons): Ridder showed flashes of brilliance in his limited appearances last season. With a full offseason as the presumptive starter (following the Marcus Mariota trade), and an improved offensive supporting cast, Ridder could prove to be a surprise playoff contender. The Falcons' offensive weapons give him a chance to excel.

Tier 2: Solid Options with Potential

4. Cooper Rush (Dallas Cowboys): A proven veteran, Rush has consistently performed well when stepping in for Dak Prescott. However, the Cowboys' success heavily relies on their dominant running game and defense; Rush’s ability to manage games effectively will be crucial.

5. Will Grier (Dallas Cowboys): With the departure of Rush to the Denver Broncos, Will Grier becomes the primary backup for the Cowboys in the 2024 season. His development and readiness will be crucial to their postseason hopes.

6. Bailey Zappe (New England Patriots): Zappe’s performance last season, while brief, offered a glimpse of his potential. The Patriots’ system is notoriously quarterback-friendly, but the overall roster strength might not be enough to carry him to a deep playoff run.

Tier 3: Unproven but Potentially Capable

This tier includes several quarterbacks with limited experience who could potentially surprise, but their overall readiness remains a question mark. Their inclusion here depends heavily on the team’s overall strength and coaching staff's ability to mitigate their inexperience. Examples include some young developmental quarterbacks who are unlikely to start, but may be called upon unexpectedly. This would vary considerably from team to team.

The Importance of Depth:

The success of any NFL team relies heavily on its depth at every position. While starting quarterbacks are crucial, the ability of a backup to step up and perform in high-pressure situations can be the difference between a playoff berth and an early exit. These backup quarterbacks will be key players to watch throughout the 2024 season.

Conclusion:

The 2024 NFL season promises to be thrilling, and the performance of these backup quarterbacks could dramatically alter the playoff picture. Keep an eye on these players, as their contributions might just determine the ultimate champion. Which backup QB do you think will shine brightest? Let us know in the comments below!