Predicting Playoff Success: Ranking The Top Backup Quarterbacks For 2024

David

3 min read

Post on May 08, 2025

4.2

Share

Predicting Playoff Success: Ranking the Top Backup Quarterbacks for 2024

The NFL playoffs are a brutal, unforgiving crucible. One injury to a star quarterback can shatter a team's Super Bowl hopes faster than a blitzing linebacker. That's why having a reliable backup is paramount. This year, more than ever, the quality of a team's second-string QB could be the difference between a deep playoff run and an early exit. Let's rank the top backup quarterbacks heading into the 2024 season, examining their potential to step up when called upon.

Methodology: This ranking considers a combination of factors: past performance, experience, recent practice reports, and overall system fit within their respective teams. It's important to remember that unexpected performances can drastically shift these rankings throughout the season.

Tier 1: The Elite Reserves

1. Brock Purdy (San Francisco 49ers): Purdy’s playoff performance in 2023, albeit limited, showcased his composure and talent under pressure. While recovering from injury, his potential to seamlessly integrate into Kyle Shanahan's offensive system gives the 49ers a significant advantage. His quick release and accuracy are key assets. The biggest question mark remains his health and ability to consistently replicate his late-season success.

2. Jordan Love (Green Bay Packers): Love finally got his chance to start in 2023, and while not perfect, showed flashes of the talent that made him a first-round pick. He possesses a strong arm and mobility, traits that could translate into playoff success if given the opportunity. His experience running the Packers' offense is invaluable.

3. Desmond Ridder (Atlanta Falcons): Ridder ended the 2023 season on a high note, showing improvement and leadership qualities. His running ability adds another dimension to the Falcons’ offense, making him a dangerous wildcard in a potential playoff scenario. His consistency will be key to proving his long-term viability.

Tier 2: Solid Contributors

4. Cooper Rush (Dallas Cowboys): Rush has proven himself a capable game manager in the past, stepping in for Dak Prescott and winning games. His experience within the Cowboys' system is a huge asset, making him a dependable option should Prescott face injury.

5. Teddy Bridgewater (Miami Dolphins): A veteran with extensive starting experience, Bridgewater provides a steady hand and leadership. While perhaps lacking the explosive upside of some younger backups, his experience could be invaluable in high-pressure situations. His injury history is a concern.

Tier 3: Potential Dark Horses

6. Bailey Zappe (New England Patriots): Zappe showed promise in limited action in 2023. His development will be key in determining whether he can progress to a higher tier in the coming seasons.

7. Malik Willis (Tennessee Titans): A raw talent with a high ceiling, Willis needs more time to refine his skills. He’s a high-risk, high-reward backup, offering the potential for explosive plays but also the risk of costly mistakes.

The Importance of the Backup QB in the Modern NFL:

The modern NFL emphasizes offensive firepower. A team's playoff chances are significantly diminished if its starting quarterback goes down. The quality of the backup is, therefore, a critical factor in predicting playoff success. Teams with strong backup quarterbacks are better equipped to weather the storm of injuries and maintain their competitive edge in the postseason.

Looking Ahead:

The upcoming season will be crucial in solidifying these rankings. Performances in the preseason and early regular season games will give us a clearer picture of which backup quarterbacks are truly ready to lead their teams to victory in the playoffs. Keep an eye on these players – their contributions could decide the fate of several playoff contenders. What do you think? Let us know your predictions in the comments below!