Can These Backup Quarterbacks Lead An NFL Playoff Team In 2024? A Ranking

David

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Post on Jun 17, 2025

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Can These Backup Quarterbacks Lead an NFL Playoff Team in 2024? A Ranking

The NFL is a league of unpredictable twists and turns. One minute, a star quarterback is leading their team to victory; the next, they're sidelined with an injury, leaving the fate of their playoff hopes in the hands of their backup. With the 2024 season looming, the question on many football fans' minds is: which backup quarterbacks possess the talent and experience to not just fill in, but potentially lead their team to a playoff berth?

This isn't about who's the best backup overall; it's about who has the best chance to succeed in a high-pressure playoff scenario, considering their team's supporting cast and overall roster strength. Let's dive into a ranking of some of the NFL's top backup quarterbacks and assess their playoff potential:

Tier 1: Playoff-Ready

1. Brock Purdy (San Francisco 49ers): Purdy's performance late in the 2022 season, culminating in a deep playoff run before injury, catapults him to the top. His arm talent, combined with the 49ers' exceptional roster, makes him a legitimate threat to lead a playoff charge should the need arise. His understanding of Kyle Shanahan's offensive system is invaluable.

2. Cooper Rush (Dallas Cowboys): Rush has proven he can win games in the NFL. While not a flashy player, his steadiness and experience within the Cowboys' system make him a reliable option. The Cowboys' potent offense significantly boosts his chances of leading them to success even without Dak Prescott.

Tier 2: Potential Playoff Contributors

3. Desmond Ridder (Atlanta Falcons): Ridder showed flashes of potential in his limited starts last season. With another year of experience and improvement, and a strengthening Falcons roster, Ridder could realistically push for a playoff spot if given the opportunity. His mobility is a significant asset.

4. Gardner Minshew (Indianapolis Colts): Minshew possesses a strong arm and a knack for making plays. The Colts' roster is a wildcard – its success (or lack thereof) will heavily impact Minshew's chances of leading them to a playoff run.

Tier 3: Long Shots, But Not Impossible

5. Will Grier (Dallas Cowboys): While less experienced than other quarterbacks on this list, Grier benefits from being in a strong system with talented teammates. His chances of leading a playoff run hinge on the Cowboys' overall performance and the health of their starting lineup.

6. Teddy Bridgewater (Miami Dolphins): A veteran with playoff experience, Bridgewater offers a level of stability. However, the Dolphins' success heavily relies on Tua Tagovailoa's health, diminishing Bridgewater's chances of a significant playoff impact.

Factors Beyond the Quarterback:

It's crucial to remember that a backup quarterback's success isn't solely dependent on their individual talent. Factors like:

• Offensive Line Strength: A strong offensive line protects the quarterback and opens up running lanes.
• Coaching Staff: A capable coaching staff can adapt the game plan to the backup's strengths.
• Team's Overall Talent: Even the best backup will struggle on a weak team.

Conclusion:

While predicting the future is impossible, the quarterbacks listed above have the best chance to lead their respective teams to a playoff berth should their starting quarterbacks be sidelined. The 2024 season promises to be exciting, and the performance of these backup quarterbacks could very well determine the fate of several playoff races. Who will surprise us and who will falter under pressure? Only time will tell.

Call to Action: Share your predictions for which backup quarterback will make the biggest impact in the 2024 NFL season in the comments below!