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

David

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Post on May 13, 2025

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

The NFL season is a marathon, not a sprint, and injuries are an inevitable part of the game. While star quarterbacks grab the headlines, the quality of a team's backup often determines the difference between a playoff push and a disappointing season. With the 2023 season winding down and the 2024 playoffs on the horizon, let's assess some of the league's backup quarterbacks and determine who's truly ready to step up when called upon.

The Elite Tier: Proven Performers

Several teams boast backup quarterbacks with significant starting experience and proven success. These are the players who inspire confidence, not fear, in their respective fan bases.

• Brock Purdy (San Francisco 49ers): Purdy's late-season surge in 2022, culminating in a strong playoff performance before injury, catapults him to the top of this list. While his injury status going into 2024 remains uncertain, his potential is undeniable. His performance highlighted the importance of developing a strong backup QB.

• Cooper Rush (Dallas Cowboys): Rush has filled in admirably for Dak Prescott in the past, showcasing a reliable game management style and a knack for winning close games. His consistency makes him a valuable asset for the Cowboys.

• Taylor Heinicke (Atlanta Falcons): Heinicke’s experience, particularly his playoff appearances with Washington, give him a significant edge. His scrambly style offers a different dynamic than Desmond Ridder, potentially making him a potent change-of-pace option should Atlanta need him.

The Promising Tier: Potential Playmakers

This group of backups possesses talent and upside, but lacks the extensive starting experience of the elite tier. Their potential to contribute significantly in a pinch is high, depending on their development and opportunity.

• Will Levis (Tennessee Titans): Levis, a first-round pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, is a high-ceiling player still developing. How quickly he adapts to the NFL will dictate his readiness for a playoff run should the Titans need him.

• Trey Lance (San Francisco 49ers): While currently behind Brock Purdy and Sam Darnold on the depth chart, Lance's athleticism and potential still hold value. His progress throughout the 2024 season will be pivotal in evaluating his playoff readiness.

The Question Marks: Uncertain Futures

This tier includes quarterbacks with less proven ability, their effectiveness in a high-pressure playoff scenario remaining uncertain.

• Many Undrafted Free Agents/Recent Rookies: Numerous teams rely on less-experienced quarterbacks as their primary backup. Their potential will be fully judged based on their showing during the 2024 regular season. Their readiness for a playoff run is significantly lower than the previous tiers.

The Importance of Backup QB Development

The success of a team's backup quarterback is directly tied to the team's investment in their development. Teams that prioritize their backup QB position, giving them meaningful practice reps and even some game experience, are better prepared for unexpected injuries. Investing in a strong backup is an investment in the team's overall success.

Conclusion: Preparing for the Unexpected

The 2024 NFL playoffs will be a fierce competition. While starting quarterbacks carry the weight of expectation, the quality of backup quarterbacks will significantly influence which teams make deep playoff runs. The teams with the most prepared backups will have a considerable advantage when the pressure is on. Keep an eye on these quarterbacks throughout the season — their performance could decide a championship.

Call to Action: Who do you think is the best backup quarterback poised for a 2024 playoff run? Share your thoughts in the comments below!