2024 NFL Playoff Contenders: Ranking Backup Quarterbacks' Potential

David

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Post on May 08, 2025

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2024 NFL Playoff Contenders: Ranking Backup Quarterbacks' Potential

The NFL playoffs are a brutal, unforgiving landscape. One injury, one devastating hit, can shatter a team's Super Bowl dreams in an instant. While starting quarterbacks hog the headlines, the quality of a team's backup can be the difference between a deep playoff run and an early exit. So, as we look ahead to the 2024 season, let's assess the backup quarterbacks who could significantly impact the playoff picture for their respective teams.

This isn't just about filling in for a game or two; we're evaluating the potential for these quarterbacks to step up and lead their teams to victory when it matters most. We'll be considering experience, recent performance, and the overall strength of the supporting cast.

Methodology: Our ranking takes into account a combination of factors, including:

• Prior NFL experience: Has the QB played meaningful snaps at the NFL level?
• Recent performance: How did they perform in preseason games or limited regular-season action?
• System Fit: How well does their skill set align with the offensive scheme?
• Supporting Cast: The strength of the offensive line, running game, and receiving corps significantly impacts a backup QB's success.

Top 5 Backup Quarterbacks with Playoff Potential (2024)

1. Brock Purdy (San Francisco 49ers): Purdy's performance in 2022, despite a late-season injury, proved his potential. He has the arm talent, the composure, and, critically, he's already familiar with Kyle Shanahan's system. The 49ers' elite roster makes Purdy a near-guarantee for significant success if called upon. This elevates the 49ers' playoff ceiling considerably.

2. Desmond Ridder (Atlanta Falcons): Ridder showed flashes of promise towards the end of the 2022 season and will enter 2024 with a full offseason as the presumed backup. While his ceiling might be lower than Purdy's, the Falcons are a rising team, and Ridder benefits from a potent running game and improving receiving corps.

3. Will Levis (Tennessee Titans): A high-profile draft pick, Levis is a project, but he possesses undeniable physical gifts. His development will be crucial, but if he makes significant strides, he could give the Titans a fighting chance if Ryan Tannehill gets injured. The Titans' running game could help shield him from early pressure.

4. Cooper Rush (Dallas Cowboys): Rush has proven he can win games in the NFL, albeit against less formidable opponents. His experience and familiarity with the Cowboys' system make him a valuable asset. However, his ceiling is likely capped compared to the QBs above. The Cowboys' success depends heavily on Dak Prescott staying healthy.

5. Gardner Minshew (Indianapolis Colts): Minshew offers a different style than Anthony Richardson, and he's a proven game manager in the NFL. While not a high-upside option, his experience and readiness could be crucial for the Colts, especially considering the inexperience of their starting QB.

Honorable Mentions: Several other backup quarterbacks have the potential to make an impact in specific situations, including Jacoby Brissett (Washington Commanders) and Bailey Zappe (New England Patriots). Their ability to step up will depend greatly on the health of their respective starting quarterbacks and the circumstances of any potential playoff run.

Conclusion:

The role of the backup quarterback is often overlooked, but their potential to significantly impact playoff success is undeniable. The quarterbacks listed above represent a range of experience and potential, but all possess the talent and opportunity to make a difference if called upon. The 2024 NFL season promises to be exciting, and the performances of these backup quarterbacks could very well determine which teams are celebrating in February. Keep an eye on their progress throughout the season!