Assessing Backup QBs: Who's Got The Stuff For A 2024 NFL Playoff Push?

David

3 min read

Post on Aug 03, 2025

4.6

Share

Assessing Backup QBs: Who's Got the Stuff for a 2024 NFL Playoff Push?

The NFL season is a marathon, not a sprint. Injuries are inevitable, and for many teams, the difference between a playoff berth and an early offseason lies squarely on the shoulders of their backup quarterbacks. This year, the pressure is on these understudies more than ever. So, who among the league's second-string signal-callers has the potential to step up and lead their team to a 2024 playoff push if called upon? Let's dive into the analysis.

The Elite Tier: Proven Performers

A handful of backup quarterbacks have already proven their mettle in high-pressure situations. These aren't just clipboard holders; they're legitimate game-changers.

• Brock Purdy (San Francisco 49ers): Purdy's late-season surge in 2022, despite being a seventh-round pick, catapulted him into this elite category. His performance showcased surprising poise and accuracy. While recovering from injury, his potential remains significant. A healthy Purdy is a serious threat to any starting QB.

• Cooper Rush (Dallas Cowboys): Rush consistently demonstrates competence and reliability, filling in admirably for Dak Prescott. He's not flashy, but he manages games effectively and protects the ball – a vital trait for any backup. His experience gives the Cowboys significant confidence.

• Will Grier (Dallas Cowboys): While Rush is the established backup, Grier provides a different dimension. His arm talent is higher than Rush's, offering a potentially higher ceiling should he be given the opportunity. The Cowboys' QB room is a strength, a luxury few teams enjoy.

The Promising Contenders: Potential Playoff Stars

Several quarterbacks possess the talent to rise to the occasion, but their lack of extensive starting experience leaves room for uncertainty.

• Desmond Ridder (Atlanta Falcons): Ridder showed flashes of brilliance in his limited 2022 starts, hinting at a brighter future. His athleticism and arm strength are undeniable assets. The Falcons' faith in him as their future QB indicates potential.

• Jordan Love (Green Bay Packers): After years of learning behind Aaron Rodgers, Love finally gets his shot. The 2024 season will be a defining one, determining whether he can handle the pressure of leading a team to the playoffs. His performance will largely dictate the Packers' success.

The Question Marks: High Risk, High Reward

This group faces a steeper climb to playoff relevance, but their potential is undeniably exciting.

• Bailey Zappe (New England Patriots): Zappe's performance in limited action showed some promise. However, consistency and refinement are crucial for him to prove he can handle a full starting role.

• Trey Lance (San Francisco 49ers): Lance’s injury history raises concerns, but his exceptional arm talent and athleticism cannot be ignored. If he can stay healthy and develop his game, he could be a game-changer.

Conclusion: Backup QBs are Crucial

The 2024 NFL season will highlight the importance of a strong backup quarterback. Teams with capable understudies will be far better equipped to navigate injuries and maintain their playoff aspirations. While predicting the future is impossible, the quarterbacks mentioned above have the potential to significantly impact their teams' success – and potentially their own careers. Keep an eye on their development throughout the season; they may just be the difference between a championship contender and a disappointing finish.

What do you think? Which backup QB has the best chance of leading their team to a playoff run in 2024? Share your predictions in the comments below!