Can These Backup QBs Deliver A 2024 NFL Playoff Run? A Ranking

David

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Post on May 25, 2025

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Can These Backup QBs Deliver a 2024 NFL Playoff Run? A Ranking

The 2024 NFL season is upon us, and while many teams boast star quarterbacks, the reality is that injuries are inevitable. The question looming over numerous franchises isn't if their backup quarterback will see the field, but how well they'll perform under pressure. Can these understudies lead their teams to a playoff berth? Let's rank some of the league's most promising backup QBs and assess their potential to deliver in a pinch.

Methodology: Our ranking considers a combination of factors: previous NFL experience (or notable college success), recent performance in preseason or limited regular season appearances, the quality of the supporting cast, and the overall strength of their respective teams. This is not a prediction of who will start, but an assessment of backup QB playoff potential if called upon.

Tier 1: The Potential Playoff Leaders

1. Brock Purdy (San Francisco 49ers): Purdy's late-season surge in 2022, despite a significant elbow injury, cemented his place at the top of this list. While his recovery is crucial, the 49ers' elite roster gives him a significant advantage. His experience and proven ability to perform under pressure make him a serious contender to lead a playoff run should he be needed.

2. Cooper Rush (Dallas Cowboys): Rush has repeatedly shown he can keep the Cowboys competitive when called upon. While not a flashy player, his game management skills and experience within the Cowboys system give Dallas a solid safety net. His familiarity with the offense and the team’s strong supporting cast position him highly.

Tier 2: Capable Contributors, But…

3. Desmond Ridder (Atlanta Falcons): Ridder showed flashes of potential in his rookie season. The Falcons’ improved roster offers a better supporting cast, but he'll need to show significant growth in consistency and decision-making to truly be a playoff-caliber quarterback.

4. Gardner Minshew (Indianapolis Colts): Minshew has experience as a starter and possesses a strong arm. However, the Colts’ overall roster strength remains questionable, placing a heavier burden on his shoulders. His success would heavily depend on the team's overall performance.

Tier 3: High Risk, High Reward (or More Likely, High Risk)

5. Jordan Love (Green Bay Packers): Love finally gets his chance as the starter in Green Bay. While his preseason performance might suggest he's ready, the pressure of leading a team with playoff aspirations could be overwhelming. His potential is high, but his lack of consistent starting experience puts him in this lower tier.

6. Will Levis (Tennessee Titans): Levis is a rookie with significant potential, but his inexperience at the NFL level places him at a considerable disadvantage. The Titans’ roster also faces several challenges, adding more pressure on a raw talent.

The Wildcard: Several other backup QBs could emerge as unexpected contributors, depending on injuries and team performance. The fluidity of the NFL makes predicting success challenging. Staying updated on the latest news and injury reports is key to understanding the ever-changing landscape of the backup quarterback position.

Conclusion: The success of these backup QBs will depend on a variety of factors. While some possess the experience and talent to lead playoff runs, others face a steeper climb. The 2024 season promises excitement, but it also highlights the critical importance of depth at the quarterback position. Keep an eye on these players—their performance might just determine the fate of their respective teams.

Keywords: NFL, backup quarterbacks, 2024 NFL season, playoff contenders, Brock Purdy, Cooper Rush, Desmond Ridder, Gardner Minshew, Jordan Love, Will Levis, NFL rankings, NFL news, football, sports

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