NFL 2024 Playoffs: Ranking Backup QBs With Playoff Potential

David

3 min read

Post on May 08, 2025

4.5

Share

NFL 2024 Playoffs: Ranking Backup QBs with Playoff Potential

The NFL regular season is a marathon, but the playoffs are a sprint. One wrong step, one crucial injury, and a team's Super Bowl hopes can vanish faster than a Hail Mary. That's why the quality of a team's backup quarterback is increasingly crucial, especially as we look ahead to the 2024 NFL Playoffs. This year, several teams boast backup QBs with genuine playoff potential, ready to step up if called upon. But who are the best of the best? Let's rank them.

Methodology: This ranking considers a combination of factors: previous NFL experience, recent performance in preseason or limited regular season snaps, offensive system familiarity, and overall perceived talent. It's important to note this is a predictive ranking, and actual performance will ultimately determine the true impact of these players.

Tier 1: The Elite Understudies

1. Brock Purdy (San Francisco 49ers): Purdy's unexpected late-season surge in 2022 cemented his place as a top backup. While his injury history raises concerns, his arm talent and poise under pressure are undeniable. His familiarity with Kyle Shanahan's system is a huge asset.

2. Jordan Love (Green Bay Packers): After years of sitting behind Aaron Rodgers, Love finally has his chance to shine. The Packers' offense is tailored to his strengths, and his pre-season performance has been encouraging. His potential to lead a playoff run is high, though still unproven.

Tier 2: Solid Contenders

3. Desmond Ridder (Atlanta Falcons): Ridder showed flashes of brilliance in his starting appearances last season. While inconsistencies remain, his mobility and improving accuracy make him a viable option for the Falcons should anything happen to their starter.

4. Bailey Zappe (New England Patriots): Zappe impressed in limited action last year, showcasing a strong arm and good decision-making. His performance in the Patriots' system hints at a potential playoff contribution should Mac Jones falter.

Tier 3: Wildcard Potential

5. Will Grier (Dallas Cowboys): Grier's experience in the league, though limited, gives him an edge. He's familiar with the pressures of the NFL and understands the importance of game management.

6. Gardner Minshew (Indianapolis Colts): Minshew's unorthodox style and proven ability to move the chains might be enough to keep the Colts competitive in a pinch. However, consistency remains a question mark.

Factors Impacting Playoff Success:

• Offensive Line: A strong offensive line can mask a backup QB's weaknesses and give them time to make plays.
• Running Game: A dominant running game can take pressure off the quarterback and control the clock, crucial for playoff success.
• Play Calling: Adaptive play calling that caters to the backup's strengths is essential for a smooth transition.

Conclusion:

The 2024 NFL Playoffs could see some unexpected heroes emerge from the ranks of backup quarterbacks. While the starters will be the focus, the quality of their understudies could ultimately decide the fate of many teams. Keep a close eye on these quarterbacks throughout the season – their performance could determine the difference between a championship run and an early exit.

Keywords: NFL Playoffs, Backup Quarterbacks, 2024 NFL Season, NFL Predictions, Brock Purdy, Jordan Love, Desmond Ridder, Bailey Zappe, Will Grier, Gardner Minshew, NFL Ranking, Playoff Potential

Call to Action (subtle): Stay tuned for more NFL news and analysis as we approach the 2024 season!