Can These Backup Quarterbacks Deliver A 2024 NFL Playoff Run? A Ranking.

David

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Post on May 15, 2025

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

The NFL is a league of unpredictable twists and turns. One wrong hit, one unfortunate injury, and a season can pivot on the reliability of a backup quarterback. With the 2024 season looming, several teams find themselves relying heavily on the depth behind their starting signal-caller. But can these understudies truly deliver a playoff push? Let's rank the backup QBs most likely to lead their teams to postseason success.

Methodology: This ranking considers a variety of factors, including past performance (at any level), experience, familiarity with the offensive system, and the overall strength of the supporting cast. It's crucial to remember that even the best backups are facing an uphill battle.

Tier 1: Playoff Contenders in Waiting

1. Brock Purdy (San Francisco 49ers): Purdy's late-season success in 2022, culminating in a dominant playoff run before injury, catapults him to the top spot. His understanding of Kyle Shanahan's complex offense is invaluable, and the 49ers' roster remains stacked. While his health remains a question mark, if he's healthy, he's the most likely backup to deliver a deep playoff run.

2. Jordan Love (Green Bay Packers): Love's time is now. After years learning behind Aaron Rodgers, he inherits a potent offense, albeit one needing to prove itself in 2024. Love possesses the arm talent and athleticism, but his consistency and ability to handle pressure will be crucial. The Packers' success hinges on his development.

Tier 2: Potential for Success, but Higher Risk

3. Desmond Ridder (Atlanta Falcons): Ridder showed flashes of promise last season, giving Atlanta fans a glimpse into the future. He needs to improve his accuracy and decision-making but has the tools to succeed in Arthur Smith’s run-heavy scheme. The Falcons’ upward trajectory depends largely on his growth.

4. Cooper Rush (Dallas Cowboys): A steady hand, Rush has proven he can win games in the NFL. However, he's not a high-ceiling quarterback, and his success is heavily reliant on the Cowboys' dominant defense and running game.

Tier 3: Unproven Commodities – Long Shots

5. Will Levis (Tennessee Titans): A first-round pick, Levis has the potential but needs significant development. His time in Tennessee presents a steep learning curve. The Titans will need a monumental effort from their defense and running game to support him.

6. Backup QBs (Various Teams): Many teams boast capable, but largely unproven, backups. Players like Gardner Minshew, Jacoby Brissett, and others will be essential to their teams' success should the starter go down. However, relying on them for a playoff run is a significant gamble.

The Wildcard Factor: Offensive Line and Coaching

It's impossible to discuss backup quarterbacks without acknowledging the importance of two key factors: the offensive line and the coaching staff. Even the most talented backup needs time to operate and a strong coaching scheme to succeed. A dominant offensive line protecting the quarterback and a coaching staff capable of adjusting game plans are paramount to any playoff run.

Conclusion: While any team relying on a backup quarterback faces a daunting task, some backups possess a significantly higher chance of success than others. Purdy and Love sit atop the list, representing the best hope for a playoff berth should their starting quarterbacks get injured. But remember, in the NFL, anything can happen. The 2024 season promises to be full of surprises. What are your predictions for these backup quarterbacks? Let us know in the comments below!