Ranking NFL Backup Quarterbacks: Playoff Potential For 2024

David

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Post on May 19, 2025

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Ranking NFL Backup Quarterbacks: Playoff Potential for 2024

The NFL season hinges on quarterback play. While star quarterbacks garner most of the headlines, the quality of backup quarterbacks can often be the difference between a playoff run and an early exit. Injuries are an unfortunate reality, and a team's success can dramatically shift depending on the capability of their second-string signal-caller. So, let's delve into a ranking of the NFL's backup quarterbacks, assessing their playoff potential for the 2024 season. This isn't about who's the best overall; it's about who's best equipped to step in and win games should the starter go down.

Methodology: This ranking considers a combination of factors including experience, recent performance (including preseason games), system familiarity, and overall talent. We're focusing on the potential to lead a team to victory, not just manage the game.

Tier 1: Playoff-Ready

• 1. Brock Purdy (San Francisco 49ers): Purdy's late-season heroics in 2022, despite being a seventh-round pick, solidify his position at the top. His arm talent, composure under pressure, and familiarity with Kyle Shanahan's offensive system make him a legitimate threat to lead a playoff run. He’s more than just a capable backup; he’s a potential starter on many teams.

• 2. Cooper Rush (Dallas Cowboys): Rush has consistently proven his ability to win games in relief for the Cowboys. His understanding of the offense and his game management skills make him a valuable asset. While not possessing the same ceiling as Purdy, his experience is invaluable.

• 3. Gardner Minshew (Indianapolis Colts): Minshew boasts a strong arm and impressive improvisational skills. While he hasn't had extensive success as a starter, his experience and ability to extend plays could translate to unexpected success in a pinch.

Tier 2: Capable Contributors

• 4. Teddy Bridgewater (New Orleans Saints): A seasoned veteran, Bridgewater's experience and leadership could prove crucial. While his physical tools aren't elite, his ability to manage a game and avoid turnovers is a valuable asset.

• 5. Jacoby Brissett (Washington Commanders): Brissett's ability to make smart decisions and keep the offense moving consistently makes him a reliable option. He’s a steady hand, not flashy, but effective.

• 6. Mike White (New York Jets): While inconsistent, White's flashes of brilliance and experience make him better than many backups. He's got the arm talent to make big plays, but needs to improve his decision-making.

Tier 3: Developing Potential

• 7. Malik Willis (Tennessee Titans): Willis possesses incredible athletic talent and a strong arm, but he needs more development before he can be considered a reliable playoff option. His raw potential is undeniable, but consistency remains a key hurdle.

• 8. Desmond Ridder (Atlanta Falcons): Ridder showed some promise in his limited starts last season, but needs more seasoning. This season is crucial for his development and proving his readiness to handle a playoff-caliber offense.

Factors Affecting Backup QB Performance:

• Offensive Line: A strong offensive line protects even the most inexperienced quarterbacks.
• Play Calling: A simple, effective game plan is vital for a backup quarterback stepping into a high-pressure situation.
• Offensive Weapons: Having talented receivers and running backs makes a backup’s job significantly easier.

Conclusion: The success of a backup quarterback often depends on more than just individual skill. The supporting cast and coaching staff play a critical role. While Brock Purdy leads the pack, several other backups possess the potential to contribute to a surprising playoff run in 2024. The upcoming season will be crucial in solidifying these rankings and revealing hidden gems. Keep an eye on these players – their performances could define the fate of their teams.