2024 NFL Playoff Hopefuls: Ranking Backup QBs With Starting Potential

David

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Post on May 12, 2025

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2024 NFL Playoff Hopefuls: Ranking Backup QBs with Starting Potential

The NFL season is a marathon, not a sprint, and even the most meticulously crafted rosters can crumble under the weight of injuries. For many playoff hopefuls, the difference between a deep postseason run and an early exit might hinge on the performance of their backup quarterbacks. This year, several teams boast backups with the potential to step in and seamlessly (or at least competently) fill the starting role if needed. Let's rank these potential saviors, analyzing their strengths, weaknesses, and the likelihood of their team needing their services.

Methodology: This ranking considers a combination of factors: past performance, experience, current team context, and overall potential. It's not purely about raw talent; game-readiness and system fit are crucial.

Tier 1: Ready to Roll

1. Brock Purdy (San Francisco 49ers): Purdy's late-season surge in 2022, culminating in a playoff run before injury, catapults him to the top. His accuracy, decision-making, and ability to manage the 49ers' complex offense already prove he's capable of leading a playoff contender. While the injury is a concern, his proven performance makes him the clear frontrunner.

2. Cooper Rush (Dallas Cowboys): A consistent performer in relief of Dak Prescott, Rush has earned the trust of the Cowboys' coaching staff. He possesses the grit and game management skills necessary to navigate a playoff atmosphere, although his ceiling might be slightly lower than Purdy's. His familiarity with the Cowboys' system is a major advantage.

Tier 2: High Potential, Needs More Proving Ground

3. Desmond Ridder (Atlanta Falcons): Ridder showed flashes of potential in his limited starts last season. While still developing, his athleticism and arm talent make him an intriguing prospect. The Falcons' improved roster should give him more opportunities to shine and solidify his position in this tier.

4. Jordan Love (Green Bay Packers): Love finally gets his shot as the Packers' undisputed starter. While his performance will ultimately define his ranking, his pre-season performances have been encouraging. His success will directly correlate with Green Bay's playoff aspirations.

Tier 3: Wild Cards

5. Will Levis (Tennessee Titans): Levis is a high-risk, high-reward option. His raw talent is undeniable, but he's largely unproven at the NFL level. His development will be crucial for the Titans, but expecting a seamless transition into playoff success might be optimistic.

6. Bailey Zappe (New England Patriots): Zappe's surprising performance in limited action last season garnered attention. However, his inexperience and the Patriots' offensive scheme make it difficult to project him as a reliable playoff performer.

The Impact on Playoff Contenders:

The presence (or absence) of a capable backup quarterback significantly impacts a team's playoff outlook. Teams like the 49ers and Cowboys, with high-tier backups, appear better equipped to weather potential injuries at the quarterback position. Teams relying on backups in Tier 3, however, might find their playoff hopes significantly diminished should their starters suffer season-ending injuries.

Conclusion:

While the regular season unfolds, keeping an eye on these backup quarterbacks is crucial. Their performance, or lack thereof, could dramatically reshape the 2024 NFL playoff landscape. The ability of these quarterbacks to rise to the occasion will be a major storyline throughout the year. Stay tuned!

Keywords: NFL Playoffs, Backup Quarterbacks, 2024 NFL Season, Brock Purdy, Cooper Rush, Desmond Ridder, Jordan Love, Will Levis, Bailey Zappe, NFL Injuries, Playoff Contenders, NFL Predictions.