Assessing Backup Quarterbacks: Who's Ready For A 2024 NFL Playoff Run?

David

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Post on Jun 06, 2025

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Assessing Backup Quarterbacks: Who's Ready for a 2024 NFL Playoff Run?

The NFL playoffs are a brutal crucible. One injury to a star quarterback, and a team's Super Bowl hopes can evaporate faster than a Hail Mary in the end zone. This makes the quality of a backup quarterback arguably the most important hidden factor in a team's success. So, as the 2023 season winds down, let's assess some of the league's backup quarterbacks and see who's truly playoff-ready should they be thrust into the spotlight in 2024.

The Elite Few: Proven Commodities

Several teams boast backups with significant starting experience. These players aren't just warming the bench; they're potential game-changers.

• Brock Purdy (San Francisco 49ers): Purdy's impressive late-season performance in 2022, culminating in a playoff run, catapults him to the top of this list. While his injury history raises concerns, his talent is undeniable. He's arguably the NFL's best backup QB. His performance proves that a backup can lead a team deep into the playoffs.

• Cooper Rush (Dallas Cowboys): Rush has consistently proven himself capable of filling in admirably for Dak Prescott. While he's not a flashy player, his reliability and game management skills make him a valuable asset to the Cowboys' playoff hopes. He's a steady hand in a crisis.

• Gardner Minshew (Indianapolis Colts): Minshew's experience and arm talent make him a viable option should the Colts need him. His spirited play offers a potential spark. However, consistency remains a question mark.

The Promising Understudies:

These quarterbacks have shown flashes of brilliance but need to prove themselves in more significant roles.

• Will Levis (Tennessee Titans): Levis, a highly touted draft pick, is still developing but possesses the arm talent to succeed. His 2023 performance will be crucial in shaping his future prospects. Will he get the necessary reps to be a reliable backup?

• Desmond Ridder (Atlanta Falcons): Ridder showed glimpses of potential late last season and will be looking to solidify his position as a credible NFL starter, even as a backup for now. His development will significantly impact the Falcons' ceiling.

The Question Marks:

Several teams are in a more precarious position, relying on backups with limited experience or significant question marks. Their playoff chances are directly linked to the health of their starting quarterbacks. This group needs to significantly improve to inspire any confidence.

• Teams with Uncertain Backup Situations: Many teams lack a reliable backup QB and need to make crucial roster decisions before the 2024 season begins. A significant investment in finding and developing a suitable backup is paramount for these teams.

Beyond the Names: The Importance of Practice Squad Depth

It’s not just about the named backup; it's also crucial to have a capable quarterback on the practice squad. This allows for a smoother transition if the primary backup is injured or underperforms. Teams should prioritize developing this critical depth.

Conclusion: The 2024 Playoff Race Hinges on Backup Quality

The upcoming NFL season will be fascinating to watch, not just for the star quarterbacks, but also for the backups waiting in the wings. The ability of a team to effectively handle quarterback injuries will be a key determinant of playoff success in 2024. Teams need to critically assess their backup situations now to ensure they are prepared for the inevitable. The difference between a successful season and an early exit might just depend on the performance of the second-string QB.