Assessing The Top Backup QBs: Contenders For A 2024 Playoff Run?

David

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Post on Jun 07, 2025

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Assessing the Top Backup QBs: Contenders for a 2024 Playoff Run?

The NFL is a league of razor-thin margins. One injury to a star quarterback can derail a season faster than a blitzing linebacker. That's why the quality of a backup quarterback is often the unsung hero (or villain) of a playoff push. As the 2023 season winds down, let's assess some of the top backup quarterbacks who could be key players in their team's 2024 playoff hopes. Are they capable of stepping up and leading their teams to victory 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 the most confidence:

• Cooper Rush (Dallas Cowboys): Rush has already shown he can win games in Dallas, stepping in admirably for Dak Prescott in the past. His familiarity with the Cowboys' system gives him a significant advantage. While not a flashy passer, his game management skills and ability to avoid turnovers are invaluable assets. His presence alone provides a level of comfort for the Cowboys' coaching staff and fanbase.

• Brock Purdy (San Francisco 49ers): Purdy's remarkable playoff run in 2022, despite a significant elbow injury, catapulted him into the conversation of elite backup quarterbacks. His quick release, accuracy, and leadership skills make him a dangerous option should Trey Lance or Sam Darnold falter. The 49ers' offensive system is quarterback-friendly, further enhancing Purdy's potential.

• Teddy Bridgewater (Miami Dolphins): A veteran with extensive starting experience, Bridgewater brings stability and leadership to the Dolphins' backup role. While his skillset might not be as dynamic as Tua Tagovailoa's, his experience and ability to manage a game effectively could be crucial if the Dolphins face injuries at the quarterback position.

The Rising Stars: Potential Playmakers

While lacking the extensive starting experience of the elite tier, these backup quarterbacks possess significant talent and potential:

• Desmond Ridder (Atlanta Falcons): Ridder showed flashes of brilliance in his limited starts last season, showcasing a strong arm and mobility. His development will be crucial for the Falcons' future, and a strong showing as a backup in 2023 could solidify his position as a potential future starter.

• Gardner Minshew (Indianapolis Colts): Known for his quirky personality and improvisational style, Minshew has the arm talent to make plays. While his consistency might need improvement, his ability to extend plays and make something out of nothing could be valuable in a pinch.

The Wild Card: Untested but Promising

Several teams have promising young quarterbacks backing up their starters, but their lack of significant game experience makes them more of a wildcard:

This category largely depends on the upcoming season and pre-season performances. Teams will closely monitor the progress of these backups, hoping they never have to rely on them, but prepared should the need arise.

The Importance of Backup QBs in Playoff Contention:

The impact of a capable backup quarterback cannot be overstated. A strong backup provides insurance against injuries, allowing teams to maintain competitiveness even when their starter is unavailable. This translates directly into increased win probability and a higher likelihood of making a deep playoff run. The 2024 playoff race will undoubtedly feature several teams heavily reliant on the performance of their second-string quarterbacks.

Looking Ahead: The upcoming season will be crucial in solidifying the rankings of these backup QBs. Injuries, performances, and overall team success will all play a significant role. Keep an eye on these players; they may just be the difference between a Super Bowl appearance and an early exit. What are your thoughts? Which backup QB do you think has the highest potential to lead a playoff run in 2024? Share your predictions in the comments below!