Ranking The Backup Quarterbacks: Who Can Deliver A 2024 NFL Playoff Run?

David

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Post on Jun 11, 2025

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Ranking the Backup Quarterbacks: Who Can Deliver a 2024 NFL Playoff Run?

The NFL season is a marathon, not a sprint, and injuries are an inevitable part of the game. While star quarterbacks garner most of the headlines, the quality of a team's backup often dictates the difference between a playoff push and a season spent watching from home. With the 2023 season underway, let's rank some of the league's backup quarterbacks who possess the potential to lead their teams to a 2024 playoff berth should the need arise.

The Elite Tier: Proven Performers

This tier includes quarterbacks with significant starting experience and a proven track record of success. They're not just clipboard holders; they're capable of stepping in and winning games.

1. Brock Purdy (San Francisco 49ers): Purdy's late-season surge in 2022, culminating in a dominant playoff performance before injury, catapults him to the top spot. His composure, arm talent, and understanding of Kyle Shanahan's offensive scheme make him a uniquely valuable asset. He represents the gold standard for backup QBs.

2. Cooper Rush (Dallas Cowboys): Rush has consistently proven his ability to keep the Cowboys competitive when called upon. While he isn't a flashy passer, his game management skills and experience within the system are invaluable. His reliability is a major asset for Dallas.

3. Gardner Minshew (Indianapolis Colts): Minshew possesses a unique blend of arm talent and improvisational ability. While his consistency can be questioned, his experience and ability to make plays outside the structure of the offense make him a dangerous option.

The Contenders: Potential Playoff Performers

This group shows promise but lacks the extensive starting experience of the top tier. Their potential is high, and with the right opportunity, they could exceed expectations.

4. Will Levis (Tennessee Titans): Levis, a high draft pick, is a project quarterback with considerable potential. While he's still developing, his arm strength and athleticism are undeniable. His ceiling is high, but his experience is limited.

5. Desmond Ridder (Atlanta Falcons): Ridder showed flashes of potential in his limited starts last season. His mobility and dual-threat ability could be a game-changer, especially in a team that is built to take advantage of his strengths.

The Wild Cards: Dark Horses with Upside

These quarterbacks are less proven but have the potential to surprise and elevate their teams to unexpected heights.

6. Bailey Zappe (New England Patriots): Zappe showed surprising poise and accuracy in his limited appearances. While he lacks high-end arm talent, his accuracy and decision-making could make him a suitable game manager.

7. Jake Luton (Jacksonville Jaguars): A former sixth-round pick, Luton has a powerful arm and good size. He needs more experience, but his potential to make big plays cannot be ignored.

Factors Beyond the Ranking

This ranking considers the quarterbacks' inherent talent and prior performance. However, other critical factors influence a backup's success:

• Offensive Line: A strong offensive line can mitigate a backup quarterback's weaknesses.
• Coaching Staff: A supportive coaching staff can help a backup quarterback adapt to the pressure of starting.
• Offensive Scheme: A simple, efficient scheme that maximizes the backup's strengths is essential.
• Team Chemistry: A cohesive team can better compensate for the inexperience of a new starter.

Conclusion: The Importance of Depth

The success of an NFL team hinges not just on its star players but also on the depth of its roster. A capable backup quarterback can be the difference between a successful season and a disappointing one. The quarterbacks listed above have the potential to lead their teams to a 2024 playoff run, making this year's backup quarterback battles all the more compelling. Keep an eye on these players; their performances could significantly shape the playoff picture. Who do you think has the best chance of leading their team to the postseason? Let us know in the comments below!