NFL 2024 Playoff Contenders: Ranking Backup QBs Ready To Lead

David

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Post on May 20, 2025

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NFL 2024 Playoff Contenders: Ranking Backup QBs Ready to Lead

The NFL is a league of razor-thin margins. One injury, one unexpected slump, and a team's playoff hopes can vanish faster than a dropped pass in the endzone. This year, more than ever, the quality of backup quarterbacks could be the deciding factor in several teams' postseason journeys. While starting QBs grab the headlines, the unsung heroes – the backup quarterbacks – are quietly prepping to potentially steal the show. Let's dive into a ranking of the NFL's backup quarterbacks most likely to lead their teams to playoff glory should the starter go down.

Methodology: This ranking considers several factors: experience, recent performance (including preseason games), familiarity with the team's offensive system, and overall talent. We're not predicting injuries, merely assessing readiness.

Tier 1: The Playoff-Ready

1. Brock Purdy (San Francisco 49ers): Purdy's performance at the end of last season, despite a serious elbow injury, catapults him to the top. He's proven he can lead a high-powered offense, and his familiarity with Kyle Shanahan's system gives the 49ers immense confidence. His recovery is key, but if healthy, he's a legitimate playoff contender in his own right.

2. Cooper Rush (Dallas Cowboys): Rush has shown he can win games in the NFL, stepping up admirably in place of Dak Prescott in the past. His experience and understanding of the Cowboys' offense make him a valuable asset and a reassuring presence on the sidelines.

3. Teddy Bridgewater (Miami Dolphins): A veteran with playoff experience, Bridgewater offers a calm, experienced presence. While not a flashy player, his ability to manage games effectively makes him a solid option for the Dolphins.

Tier 2: Capable Contributors

4. Gardner Minshew (Indianapolis Colts): Minshew possesses undeniable talent and has shown flashes of brilliance throughout his career. His experience in different offensive schemes could benefit the Colts if needed.

5. Jacoby Brissett (Washington Commanders): Brissett brings significant experience and a steady hand to the Commanders. While not a dynamic playmaker, his reliability is a valuable trait for a team with playoff aspirations.

Tier 3: Developing Potential

6. Desmond Ridder (Atlanta Falcons): Ridder showed promise in his limited starts last year. This season is crucial for his development, and his performance could elevate him from this tier.

7. Will Levis (Tennessee Titans): Levis is a rookie with high potential, but needs significant game experience before he could be considered a true playoff threat. His development will be closely watched this season.

Factors to Consider Beyond the Quarterbacks:

• Offensive Line: A strong offensive line can protect even a less-experienced backup QB, giving them time to make plays.
• Running Game: A strong running game can take the pressure off the quarterback and allow the offense to control the clock.
• Coaching: A capable coaching staff can adjust the game plan to suit the backup QB's strengths.

Conclusion:

The NFL playoffs are a battleground of unexpected twists and turns. The quality of backup quarterbacks is no longer a secondary consideration; it's a crucial factor influencing a team's chances of postseason success. While predicting injuries is impossible, assessing the readiness of backups is vital. The teams listed above with strong backup quarterbacks significantly improve their odds of contending for a Super Bowl berth even if their starters suffer setbacks. Keep an eye on these quarterbacks throughout the season—their performance could determine the outcome of the 2024 NFL playoffs.