Contenders Or Pretenders? Ranking Backup QBs For A 2024 NFL Playoff Run

David

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Post on Aug 28, 2025

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Contenders or Pretenders? Ranking Backup QBs for a 2024 NFL Playoff Run

The NFL playoffs are a brutal, unforgiving landscape. One snap, one injury, can shatter a team's Super Bowl dreams. That's why the quality of a backup quarterback is no longer a luxury, but a critical factor determining postseason success. This year, the gap between elite backups and utter liabilities is wider than ever. So, let's dive into a ranking of the backup quarterbacks most likely to keep their teams in contention should the starter go down.

Methodology: This ranking considers a combination of recent performance, experience, perceived readiness, and overall team context. We're not just looking at raw talent; we're evaluating the likelihood of success should they be thrust into a high-pressure playoff scenario.

Tier 1: The Elite – Ready to Start Tomorrow

• 1. Brock Purdy (San Francisco 49ers): Purdy’s late-season surge in 2022, despite being a seventh-round pick, solidified his place at the top. He showed poise, accuracy, and a surprising ability to command an offense. While his injury recovery is key, his potential to seamlessly step in is undeniable. He's the gold standard for backup QBs.
• 2. Jordan Love (Green Bay Packers): Love's extended apprenticeship under Aaron Rodgers has finally prepared him for his moment. He has the arm talent and the system familiarity to potentially elevate the Packers, even without Davante Adams. The key will be handling the pressure of playoff expectations.

Tier 2: The Reliable – Capable of Winning Games

• 3. Cooper Rush (Dallas Cowboys): Rush has proven time and again that he can win games for the Cowboys. His game isn't flashy, but he's incredibly efficient and understands his role perfectly. He's a steadying presence, a valuable asset in a high-stakes environment.
• 4. Jacoby Brissett (Washington Commanders): Brissett offers veteran leadership and solid game management. He's not a high-ceiling quarterback, but he’s reliable, consistent, and less prone to making game-altering mistakes.

Tier 3: The Question Marks – Potential but Unproven

• 5. Will Levis (Tennessee Titans): Levis possesses undeniable potential, but his lack of NFL experience leaves significant questions. This is a high-risk, high-reward scenario. His development will be key for the Titans' success.
• 6. Desmond Ridder (Atlanta Falcons): Ridder showed flashes of talent in 2022, but consistency remains a concern. He has the physical tools but needs to show improved decision-making and command of the offense under pressure.

Tier 4: The Wild Cards – A Gamble at Best

• 7. Most Other Backups: The majority of NFL backup quarterbacks fall into this category. They lack significant game experience and are more likely to struggle under the weight of playoff pressure. Teams relying on these players are likely facing a significant disadvantage if their starter goes down.

The Importance of Offensive Line and Coaching

It's crucial to remember that a backup quarterback's success heavily depends on the supporting cast. A strong offensive line and a well-designed game plan can mitigate some of the weaknesses a backup might possess. A coaching staff equipped to adapt to a change in quarterback will also be invaluable.

Conclusion: The 2024 NFL playoffs will likely be defined by the unexpected. Having a reliable backup quarterback is an insurance policy that could mean the difference between a deep playoff run and an early exit. Teams with elite backups have a clear advantage, while those with inexperienced or untested players are facing a significant challenge. The upcoming season will reveal which backups are true contenders and which are merely pretenders. Stay tuned!

Further Reading:

• [Link to an article about QB injuries in the NFL]
• [Link to an article about the importance of offensive line play]

(CTA) What are your thoughts on this ranking? Let us know in the comments below which backup QB you think is most likely to lead their team to victory in the playoffs!