Assessing The Best Backup QBs: Who Could Guide An NFL Team To The 2024 Playoffs?

3 min read Post on May 26, 2025

Assessing the Best Backup QBs: Who Could Guide an NFL Team to the 2024 Playoffs?

The NFL season is a brutal marathon, and injuries are an inevitable part of the game. One wrong hit, a nagging ailment, and suddenly, a team's Super Bowl hopes rest on the shoulders of their backup quarterback. This year, the quality of backup QBs varies wildly. So, which understudies have the potential to not only fill in but potentially lead their teams to the 2024 playoffs?

Let's dive into the contenders, assessing their strengths, weaknesses, and overall playoff potential.

The Top Tier: Proven Commodities

This group boasts quarterbacks with significant NFL experience, showcasing their ability to perform under pressure.

Brock Purdy (San Francisco 49ers): Purdy's late-season surge in 2022, culminating in a dominant playoff run before injury, cemented his place as a top backup. His accuracy, decision-making, and leadership qualities are undeniable. While his health remains a question mark, a healthy Purdy could easily lead the 49ers to another deep playoff run if needed.
Cooper Rush (Dallas Cowboys): A consistent performer, Rush has shown the ability to manage games effectively, proving his worth as a reliable backup. While not known for flashy plays, his game management and experience within the Cowboys' system make him a valuable asset. His playoff experience, though limited, is a significant advantage.
Marcus Mariota (Philadelphia Eagles): Mariota brings veteran experience and a dual-threat capability to the Eagles. His ability to run the ball adds a dynamic element to the offense, offering a different look compared to Jalen Hurts. While he may not possess the same arm strength, his understanding of the game is a huge asset.

The Rising Stars: Potential Playoff Performers

This group possesses talent and potential, but their playoff experience is limited.

Jordan Love (Green Bay Packers): Love is finally stepping into the spotlight after years of learning behind Aaron Rodgers. His arm talent is undeniable, but consistency and game management need further refinement. The Packers' success will depend on his development, but he certainly has the potential to make a playoff run.
Desmond Ridder (Atlanta Falcons): Ridder showed glimpses of promise in his limited appearances last season. He's mobile, possesses a strong arm, and has the potential to improve considerably with more starting experience. However, his inexperience is a significant factor.

The Wildcards: Dark Horses with a Chance

These quarterbacks may not be on everyone's radar, but their potential shouldn't be dismissed.

Will Levis (Tennessee Titans): Levis is a high-upside prospect with significant potential, but he's still raw. He needs time to develop, but with the right coaching and opportunity, he could surprise many.

Factors Beyond Talent

Beyond individual talent, several factors contribute to a backup QB's playoff success:

Team Strength: A strong supporting cast, including a dominant defense and effective running game, significantly increases a backup's chances of success.
Offensive Scheme: A simplified, QB-friendly offense minimizes the learning curve for a backup stepping into a starting role.
Coaching: Effective coaching can help a backup QB adjust quickly and make the necessary in-game adjustments.

Conclusion: Predicting the Future is Impossible

Ultimately, predicting which backup QB will guide their team to the 2024 playoffs is impossible. While some quarterbacks possess a higher likelihood of success based on their experience and talent, unforeseen circumstances and the unpredictable nature of the NFL can always throw a curveball. The success will hinge on a combination of talent, team strength, and a bit of luck. Keep an eye on these quarterbacks—they might just be the heroes of the 2024 playoffs. Stay tuned for updates throughout the season!