NFL 2024 Playoff Contenders: Ranking The Top Backup Quarterbacks

David

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Post on May 19, 2025

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NFL 2024 Playoff Contenders: Ranking the Top Backup Quarterbacks – Who's Ready to Step Up?

The NFL season is a marathon, not a sprint, and injuries are an inevitable part of the game. For teams with Super Bowl aspirations, the quality of their backup quarterback can be the difference between a playoff run and an early exit. While star quarterbacks grab the headlines, the unsung heroes behind them – the backups – could easily become the next big story. This ranking assesses the top backup quarterbacks in the NFL heading into the 2024 season, considering their experience, skillset, and potential impact on their team's playoff chances.

Methodology: This ranking considers a combination of factors including past performance, recent play, proficiency in the team's offensive system, and overall perceived readiness to step in and perform at a high level should the starter go down. It's important to note that this is a subjective assessment based on currently available information.

Tier 1: The Elite

1. Brock Purdy (San Francisco 49ers): Purdy's late-season performance in 2022, including a dominant playoff run before injury, catapults him to the top of this list. His arm talent, accuracy, and composure under pressure make him a legitimate starting-caliber quarterback, and a massive asset for the 49ers' playoff hopes. While recovering from injury, his potential to return to form puts San Francisco in a very strong position.

2. Gardner Minshew (Indianapolis Colts): Minshew has proven himself capable of leading an NFL offense. His experience and improvisational skills make him a dangerous backup, potentially keeping the Colts in the playoff hunt even if their starter struggles.

Tier 2: Solid Contributors

3. Cooper Rush (Dallas Cowboys): Rush has shown he can win games in the NFL, providing a reliable presence behind Dak Prescott. His familiarity with the Cowboys' system is a major advantage.

4. Teddy Bridgewater (New Orleans Saints): A veteran with significant starting experience, Bridgewater offers stability and leadership. His experience could prove invaluable for a Saints team aiming for a playoff spot.

5. Jacoby Brissett (Washington Commanders): Brissett's steady leadership and experience could prove crucial for a Commanders team looking to make a playoff push. He’s a capable game manager who can keep the offense afloat.

Tier 3: Promising but Unproven

6. Malik Willis (Tennessee Titans): Willis, a former first-round pick, has significant potential but needs more game experience to prove his readiness for a starting role. His development will be crucial for the Titans' long-term success.

7. Desmond Ridder (Atlanta Falcons): Ridder gained valuable experience as a starter in 2022, showing flashes of potential. His improvement over the offseason could elevate him up the ranks.

The Importance of Backup QBs in the Playoff Race

The impact of a reliable backup quarterback cannot be overstated. A strong backup provides insurance against injury, giving teams confidence and stability even when their star quarterback is sidelined. Teams with strong backups can maintain their playoff push, avoiding the devastating consequences of a major injury at the most crucial time of the season. This season, several teams' playoff hopes will hinge on the performance of their backup quarterbacks should the need arise.

Looking Ahead: The 2024 NFL season promises to be exciting, and the performance of these backup quarterbacks could significantly impact the playoff picture. Keep an eye on these players throughout the season, as their contributions may ultimately decide the fate of several contenders. What do you think? Who will be the most impactful backup quarterback in 2024? Let us know in the comments below!