Ranking NFL Backup Quarterbacks: Contenders For A 2024 Playoff Push

David

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Post on May 27, 2025

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Ranking NFL Backup Quarterbacks: Contenders for a 2024 Playoff Push

The NFL season is a marathon, not a sprint. While star quarterbacks grab the headlines, the quality of a backup can often be the difference between a playoff berth and an early offseason. With the 2024 season looming, let's examine some of the league's top backup quarterbacks who could potentially elevate their teams to a playoff push should the starter falter. This ranking considers experience, recent performance, and overall potential to step into a starting role effectively.

Methodology: This ranking considers a combination of factors including past performance, recent game action (where available), skillset, and perceived readiness to lead an NFL offense. It acknowledges that unforeseen injuries and unexpected developments can drastically alter the landscape.

Tier 1: The Ready-Now Reserves

These quarterbacks have proven their ability to perform at a high level when called upon and represent the elite tier of NFL backups.

1. Brock Purdy (San Francisco 49ers): Purdy's playoff run in 2022, despite limited experience, solidified his position as a top backup. His arm talent and composure under pressure make him a serious threat to lead any team to success. His recovery from elbow surgery will be key, but if healthy, he's the clear leader in this category.

2. Cooper Rush (Dallas Cowboys): Rush has repeatedly shown the ability to win games for Dallas when Dak Prescott has been injured. His game management skills and consistency are invaluable assets for a team aiming for a deep playoff run. While not possessing the same ceiling as Purdy, his reliability is unquestionable.

3. Marcus Mariota (Philadelphia Eagles): A veteran presence with starting experience, Mariota brings a unique blend of mobility and arm strength. While his accuracy can be inconsistent, he possesses the leadership and experience to manage a game effectively in a pinch for a championship contender like the Eagles.

Tier 2: Promising Potential

This tier includes quarterbacks with less extensive starting experience, but who show significant potential to rise to the occasion.

1. Will Levis (Tennessee Titans): Levis possesses the physical tools to succeed, but needs more seasoning. A year under center in a backup role, learning from Ryan Tannehill, could greatly improve his readiness. His development will be a key factor in Tennessee's success next season.

2. Bailey Zappe (New England Patriots): Zappe showed flashes of competence in limited action last season. His development trajectory will depend heavily on how he progresses within the Patriots' system and the opportunity he receives in practice.

3. Sean Clifford (Green Bay Packers): Clifford brings a strong college background to Green Bay. The Packers' system and coaching staff could accelerate his development into a reliable backup option.

Tier 3: Developing Talents

These quarterbacks are still relatively early in their careers and have limited NFL experience. Their inclusion in this ranking is based on their potential, though their readiness for a starting role is currently uncertain.

This tier will constantly shift as young quarterbacks develop and gain experience.

The Impact of the Backup QB:

The importance of a reliable backup quarterback cannot be overstated. A strong backup provides crucial insurance against injury and allows teams to maintain momentum even when their star quarterback is sidelined. The quarterbacks listed above represent a range of experience and potential, each capable of making a significant contribution to their respective teams' playoff aspirations in 2024.

Looking Ahead: The 2024 season promises to be a fascinating one, with the performance of backup quarterbacks potentially playing a crucial role in determining playoff contenders. Keep an eye on the development of these players as the season unfolds. Do you agree with this ranking? Let us know in the comments below!