Contending For The Crown: The Best Backup Quarterbacks To Watch In 2024

David

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Post on Aug 25, 2025

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Contending for the Crown: The Best Backup Quarterbacks to Watch in 2024

The NFL is a league of attrition, especially at the quarterback position. One wrong hit, a nagging injury, or a sudden slump can catapult a backup QB from obscurity to the spotlight in a heartbeat. 2024 promises a fascinating battle for supremacy amongst the league's understudies, with several players poised to potentially seize starting roles and even redefine their careers. This isn't just about who's next in line; it's about identifying the potential future franchise quarterbacks hidden in plain sight.

The Top Tier: Proven Commodities and Rising Stars

Several backup quarterbacks already boast significant NFL experience and have shown flashes of brilliance. These players are not merely warm bodies on the bench; they are legitimate threats to claim starting positions should opportunity knock.

• Brock Purdy (San Francisco 49ers): While his 2023 season ended prematurely, Purdy's late-season surge solidified his status as a top backup. His accuracy, composure, and leadership qualities under pressure suggest he's ready to lead a team. His recovery from elbow surgery will be a key factor in determining his 2024 performance, but the potential is undeniable.

• Desmond Ridder (Atlanta Falcons): Ridder showcased his potential in the latter half of the 2023 season, giving Falcons fans reason for optimism. While he still needs refinement, his athleticism and arm strength make him a quarterback to watch. The Falcons' investment in him suggests they see a future starter in the making.

• Jordan Love (Green Bay Packers): After years under Aaron Rodgers' tutelage, Love finally had his chance to shine in 2023. His performance will dictate his future, but his potential is undeniable, giving him a high ceiling amongst backup QBs. His development will be a key storyline to follow throughout the coming season.

The Dark Horses: Untapped Potential and Sleeper Picks

Beyond the established backups, several other quarterbacks could emerge as surprising contenders for starting roles in 2024. These players represent high-risk, high-reward situations, offering intriguing potential for teams seeking a cost-effective solution at the quarterback position.

• Will Levis (Tennessee Titans): A first-round pick in 2023, Levis faces an uphill battle to win the starting job. However, his raw talent and potential are still very much there, making him a wild card to watch. His development and eventual performance will be closely monitored by NFL scouts.

• Malik Willis (Tennessee Titans): Similar to Levis, Willis will face a strong competition within the Titans organization. His athleticism and upside are undeniable, and he could emerge as a valuable asset if given the right opportunity.

Beyond the Stats: The Intangibles That Matter

While statistics provide a valuable snapshot of a quarterback's performance, certain intangible qualities are often crucial for success. Leadership, composure under pressure, and the ability to rally a team are essential traits that can make or break a backup's transition to a starting role. The quarterbacks listed above will need to demonstrate these qualities convincingly to truly contend for the crown in 2024.

The 2024 Season: A Crucible for Backup QBs

The 2024 NFL season will serve as a crucial proving ground for these backup quarterbacks. Injuries, unexpected slumps, and coaching changes could create unforeseen opportunities. The players who can seize the moment, display consistent performance, and demonstrate the necessary leadership qualities will be the ones to watch closely. Their performances will ultimately shape the landscape of the NFL for years to come. Keep your eyes peeled – the future of the NFL may be closer than you think.