2024 NFL Playoffs: Assessing The Backup QBs With Playoff Potential

David

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Post on Jun 10, 2025

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2024 NFL Playoffs: Assessing the Backup QBs with Playoff Potential

The NFL playoffs are a crucible, testing teams and players to their limits. While star quarterbacks often steal the spotlight, the 2024 postseason could hinge on the performance of backup quarterbacks. Injuries are an inevitable part of the brutal NFL season, and a team's success might unexpectedly rest on the shoulders of their number two. So, which backup quarterbacks have the potential to shine under the playoff pressure cooker? Let's dive into an assessment of some key players.

The Top Tier: Proven Performers

Several backup QBs have already proven their mettle in regular season action, giving their teams confidence should the starter go down.

• Brock Purdy (San Francisco 49ers): Purdy's surprising performance in 2022 catapulted him into the spotlight. While his injury history is a concern, his composure and talent in the face of adversity cannot be denied. His ability to manage the 49ers' complex offense is a significant asset. If Trey Lance or Sam Darnold falter, Purdy's experience will be invaluable.

• Cooper Rush (Dallas Cowboys): Rush has filled in admirably for Dak Prescott in the past, showcasing a steady hand and game management skills. While he’s not a flashy player, his reliability and understanding of the Cowboys' system make him a valuable asset. His experience in crucial games is a significant advantage should Prescott face injury.

• Teddy Bridgewater (Miami Dolphins): A veteran with extensive experience, Bridgewater provides the Dolphins with a steady presence behind Tua Tagovailoa. His ability to read defenses and make smart decisions makes him a capable leader, though his arm strength might limit his ceiling in a playoff environment.

The Rising Stars: Potential Dark Horses

Some backup quarterbacks have shown flashes of brilliance and possess the potential to exceed expectations in the playoffs.

• Desmond Ridder (Atlanta Falcons): Ridder's performance late in the 2023 season provided a glimpse of his potential. With a full offseason to learn the offense, his improvement could make him a serious contender should Arthur Smith need to turn to him.

• Will Levis (Tennessee Titans): While a rookie, Levis possesses the raw talent to potentially make an impact. His development will be crucial, but his physical tools suggest he has the potential to rise to the occasion given time and opportunity. Whether he will get that opportunity in 2024 remains to be seen.

The Wild Cards: Unknowns with Potential

Several other backup quarterbacks could find themselves unexpectedly in the spotlight. Their potential largely depends on their development and the circumstances surrounding their team's season. This category includes players like:

• Bailey Zappe (New England Patriots): Zappe showed some potential in limited action last season.

• Gardner Minshew (Indianapolis Colts): Minshew has experience as a starter, making him a potentially valuable emergency option.

The Importance of Backup QB Performance in Playoff Success

The impact of a strong backup quarterback cannot be overstated. A capable backup not only provides insurance against injury but can also inject new energy and a different dimension into the team's game plan. Teams with a confident and competent backup QB have a much better chance of navigating the challenges of the playoffs. The 2024 NFL season will likely offer further evidence of this.

Conclusion:

The 2024 NFL Playoffs are likely to feature some intriguing battles, not just between starting quarterbacks, but also between backup players who could suddenly become heroes. The teams with the most successful backup QBs will have a significant advantage in the quest for the Lombardi Trophy. Keep an eye on these players – their performances could be pivotal in determining the ultimate playoff outcome.