Backup Quarterbacks With Playoff Potential: A 2024 NFL Ranking

David

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Post on Jun 16, 2025

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Backup Quarterbacks with Playoff Potential: A 2024 NFL Ranking

The NFL season is a marathon, not a sprint, and injuries are an inevitable part of the game. While every team hopes their starting quarterback stays healthy, the reality is that a capable backup can be the difference between a playoff berth and an early offseason. This year, several teams boast backup quarterbacks with the potential to step up and lead their teams to victory, even in the high-stakes world of the NFL playoffs. Let's dive into our ranking of the top backup quarterbacks heading into the 2024 season, considering their experience, talent, and the potential impact on their respective teams.

Methodology: Our ranking considers a combination of factors including past performance, recent play, familiarity with the team's system, and overall perceived readiness for a starting role. It's important to note this is a projection based on current information and could shift throughout the season.

Tier 1: Playoff-Ready

1. Brock Purdy (San Francisco 49ers): Purdy's impressive rookie season, culminating in a strong playoff run before injury, catapults him to the top of this list. His quick release, accuracy, and leadership qualities make him a legitimate threat to lead any team deep into the postseason. The 49ers' offensive system is quarterback-friendly, giving Purdy a significant advantage.

2. Desmond Ridder (Atlanta Falcons): Ridder showed flashes of brilliance in his limited starts last season. With a full offseason as the presumptive starter (assuming no significant offseason acquisitions), he has the chance to solidify his place as a capable NFL starter and a reliable playoff contender. His mobility and strong arm make him a dynamic threat.

3. Jordan Love (Green Bay Packers): Love finally gets his chance to lead the Packers after years behind Aaron Rodgers. While still unproven as a starter, his talent and the Packers' strong supporting cast could allow him to thrive if called upon. His arm strength and experience within the system are significant assets.

Tier 2: High Potential, Untested

1. Will Levis (Tennessee Titans): Levis, a first-round pick, possesses the physical tools to succeed. However, he needs game experience to prove himself. His upside is immense, but his readiness for a playoff run remains to be seen.

2. Bailey Zappe (New England Patriots): Zappe surprised many with his performance in limited action last season. His accuracy and composure under pressure suggest a promising future, although he still needs to prove he can handle a full season.

3. Malik Willis (Tennessee Titans): While his rookie season was rough, Willis’ athleticism and arm talent cannot be ignored. Another year of development could dramatically improve his readiness.

Tier 3: Developing Talent

This tier includes quarterbacks who possess potential but still need significant development before they're considered playoff-ready. This group includes young, inexperienced players hoping to prove themselves throughout the season. Further evaluation is needed.

Factors Influencing the Rankings

• Offensive Line: A strong offensive line can mitigate a backup quarterback's weaknesses and buy them time to make plays.
• Coaching Staff: A capable coaching staff can adapt the offensive game plan to suit the backup quarterback's strengths.
• Offensive Weapons: A talented receiving corps and a reliable running game can significantly impact a backup quarterback's performance.

Conclusion: The depth at the backup quarterback position varies significantly across the NFL. While some teams are fortunate to have experienced and talented backups, others face a more uncertain future should their starter suffer an injury. The 2024 season will provide ample opportunities for these backup quarterbacks to prove their worth and perhaps even lead their teams to unexpected playoff success. Keep an eye on these players as the season unfolds; their performance could dramatically alter the NFL landscape. What do you think? Who is the most underrated backup QB? Let us know in the comments!