Assessing The Backup QBs: Which Could Deliver A Surprise NFL Playoff Run In 2024?

3 min read Post on May 19, 2025

Assessing the Backup QBs: Which Could Deliver a Surprise NFL Playoff Run in 2024?

The NFL is a league of unpredictable twists and turns. One minute, your star quarterback is leading you to victory, the next, they're sidelined with an injury. Suddenly, the fate of a playoff contender rests on the shoulders of the backup. So, who among the NFL's understudies possesses the potential to not only fill in admirably but lead their team on a surprising playoff run in 2024? Let's dive into the contenders.

The Top Tier: Proven Commodities with Playoff Experience

Several backup quarterbacks boast significant game experience, offering a level of comfort and familiarity for their respective teams.

Brock Purdy (San Francisco 49ers): Purdy's performance last season, culminating in a remarkable playoff run before injury, undeniably places him at the top of this list. His ability to read defenses, manage the game, and make clutch throws is undeniable. While his health remains a question mark, a healthy Purdy could propel the 49ers deep into the postseason even without Trey Lance or Sam Darnold.
Cooper Rush (Dallas Cowboys): Rush proved his mettle in filling in for Dak Prescott in 2022, displaying composure and efficiency. While not a flashy player, his reliability and understanding of the Cowboys' system could make him a valuable asset if Prescott faces injury.
Gardner Minshew (Indianapolis Colts): Though not a guaranteed starter, Minshew's experience and ability to make plays with his arm and legs give the Colts a decent fallback option behind Anthony Richardson. His leadership could prove crucial if the rookie struggles.

The Dark Horses: Potential for a Breakout Season

Beyond the established backups, several quarterbacks possess the potential for a breakout performance should opportunity arise.

Desmond Ridder (Atlanta Falcons): Ridder showed flashes of promise towards the end of last season. A full offseason as the presumptive starter – even if only in name – could solidify his skills and increase his readiness for a potential playoff push should injury strike.
Will Levis (Tennessee Titans): Levis, a rookie with immense potential, will need significant development. However, his physical attributes and arm strength give him the ceiling to potentially exceed expectations if given the chance. While he faces a steep learning curve, his upside shouldn't be discounted.

Factors Beyond Talent: Coaching and Team Support

It's crucial to remember that a backup quarterback's success isn't solely dependent on individual talent. Strong coaching, a robust supporting cast, and a well-defined offensive system are all crucial elements for a potential playoff run. A team like the Philadelphia Eagles, for example, could potentially ride Jalen Hurts' backup – whoever that may be – to a respectable record if their overall team strength remains high.

Predicting the Unexpected: The Unlikely Contenders

The beauty of the NFL lies in its unpredictability. A lesser-known backup, currently not on many radars, could unexpectedly emerge as a playoff hero. Keeping a close eye on training camps and preseason games will be crucial in identifying these hidden gems.

Conclusion: A Season of Uncertainty and Opportunity

The 2024 NFL season holds the potential for dramatic narratives. While predicting the future is impossible, the backup quarterbacks listed above represent a range of possibilities – from established veterans to high-potential rookies. The upcoming season promises excitement, unexpected twists, and the possibility of a surprise playoff contender led by an unlikely hero. Stay tuned!

Further Reading: [Link to an article about NFL QB injuries] [Link to an article predicting the 2024 NFL season]