NFL 2024 Playoff Contenders: A Backup Quarterback Power Ranking

David

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Post on May 20, 2025

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NFL 2024 Playoff Contenders: A Backup Quarterback Power Ranking

The NFL season is a marathon, not a sprint. Even the most dominant teams are one injury away from disaster. That's why the quality of a team's backup quarterback is crucial, especially for those eyeing a deep playoff run in 2024. This year, the difference between a capable understudy and a liability could be the difference between a Super Bowl berth and an early exit. Let's dive into a power ranking of backup quarterbacks, focusing on teams with legitimate playoff aspirations.

Methodology: This ranking considers a combination of factors including experience, past performance, recent practice reports, and the overall strength of the backup's supporting cast. It's crucial to remember that potential always plays a role, and a young, unproven quarterback could surprise everyone.

Tier 1: The Elite

• 1. Brock Purdy (San Francisco 49ers): Purdy defied expectations last year, proving he can lead a winning offense. While recovering from injury, his potential to step in and maintain the 49ers' high level of play is unmatched. His experience and recent success put him firmly in the top spot.

• 2. Cooper Rush (Dallas Cowboys): Rush has proven he can win games in the NFL, providing a consistent and reliable option behind Dak Prescott. His familiarity with the Cowboys' system is a huge advantage.

Tier 2: The Reliable

• 3. Gardner Minshew (Indianapolis Colts): Minshew brings experience and a unique playing style to the table. His arm talent and ability to make plays outside the pocket offer a degree of unpredictability that could be valuable in a pinch.

• 4. Teddy Bridgewater (Miami Dolphins): Bridgewater’s veteran presence and extensive starting experience make him a solid option for the Dolphins. Although not a dynamic playmaker, his game management skills are highly valued.

• 5. Jacoby Brissett (Washington Commanders): Brissett is a steady hand and capable game manager. He won’t wow you with incredible throws, but his experience and consistency make him a valuable asset for the Commanders.

Tier 3: The Wild Cards

• 6. Bailey Zappe (New England Patriots): Zappe showed flashes of potential in limited action last season. While still unproven, his upside makes him an intriguing prospect. His development will be crucial for New England’s playoff hopes.

• 7. Will Grier (Dallas Cowboys): While less experienced than Rush, Grier provides depth to the Cowboys’ QB room. His potential remains to be seen but he offers a safety net.

Tier 4: The Question Marks

This tier includes teams whose backup quarterbacks present significant uncertainty. While the starting quarterbacks on these teams are talented, an injury to the starter could significantly impact their playoff chances.

• Teams in this tier: Many teams fall here, highlighting the importance of strong quarterback depth across the league. The performance of backups on teams like the Buffalo Bills, Kansas City Chiefs, and Philadelphia Eagles will be a key factor in their playoff success.

Conclusion: The quality of a team's backup quarterback is often overlooked, but its impact can be monumental. The teams with the most reliable backup options are better positioned for a deep playoff run in 2024. While unpredictable injuries are always a threat, teams like the 49ers and Cowboys have positioned themselves well to weather the storm. Keep an eye on the development of young quarterbacks in Tier 3; they could quickly rise through the ranks. The upcoming season promises exciting quarterback battles, even among those fighting for backup roles. The NFL is a league of unexpected turns, and the backup quarterback often plays a surprising role in the season’s narrative.