Assessing The Backup QBs: Who Could Spearhead An NFL Playoff Bid In 2024?

David

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Post on May 28, 2025

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Assessing the Backup QBs: Who Could Spearhead an NFL Playoff Bid in 2024?

The NFL is a league of razor-thin margins. One injury, one unexpected slump from a star quarterback, and a team's playoff hopes can crumble faster than a cheap gingerbread house on Christmas morning. That's why the quality of a backup quarterback is no longer a luxury, but a necessity for any team with Super Bowl aspirations. As we look ahead to the 2024 season, the question on many minds is: which backup quarterbacks have the potential to not just fill in, but lead their teams to a playoff berth?

This isn't about journeymen who can simply manage a game. We're looking for quarterbacks with the talent, experience, and potential to actually win in the pressure cooker of the NFL playoffs. Let's dive into some of the top candidates:

The Proven Commodities:

• Brock Purdy (San Francisco 49ers): Purdy's late-season surge in 2022, including a dominant playoff run before injury, catapulted him into the national spotlight. While his long-term health is a question mark, his poise and arm talent make him a legitimate contender should Trey Lance or Sam Darnold falter. His performance showcased the potential for a late-round draft pick to become a legitimate starting QB.

• Cooper Rush (Dallas Cowboys): Rush has consistently proven his ability to step in and keep the Cowboys competitive when Dak Prescott is sidelined. While he’s not a flashy QB, his game management and experience within the Cowboys' system are invaluable assets. His familiarity with the team and playbook gives him a significant edge. He's a reliable safety net for Dallas.

• Teddy Bridgewater (New York Giants): A veteran with extensive starting experience, Bridgewater provides a steady hand and a wealth of knowledge. His ability to read defenses and make accurate throws is a significant factor in his favor, making him a suitable backup for Daniel Jones. While his ceiling might not be as high as some others on this list, his floor is significantly higher.

The Wild Cards:

• Malik Willis (Tennessee Titans): Willis, a former third-round pick, possesses undeniable physical talent. However, he needs significant refinement in his decision-making and consistency. A full offseason of development could see him become a true dark horse contender, but it's a high-risk, high-reward situation. His potential is undeniable, but his readiness for prime time is still a major question.

• Desmond Ridder (Atlanta Falcons): Ridder showed flashes of potential in his rookie season, giving Atlanta fans a glimpse of the future. His improvement and continued development will be key to determining his readiness to lead a playoff push should something happen to Taylor Heinicke or another Falcon QB. He's got the potential but needs more experience.

The Factors Beyond Talent:

It's crucial to remember that a backup quarterback's success isn't solely dependent on individual talent. The surrounding supporting cast, coaching staff, and the team's overall health play a massive role. A strong offensive line and a reliable running game can significantly ease the burden on a backup quarterback.

Conclusion:

Predicting who will lead a playoff run from the backup role is inherently speculative. Injuries, unexpected developments, and team performance all play a role. However, the quarterbacks listed above possess the necessary skills and experience to make a compelling case for stepping up and carrying the mantle when called upon. The 2024 season promises to be full of drama and excitement, and the performance of these backup quarterbacks might just be one of the biggest storylines. Keep an eye on these players – their performances could very well dictate the fates of several NFL playoff hopefuls.