Ranking The Best Backup NFL Quarterbacks For A Potential 2024 Playoff Push

David

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Post on May 20, 2025

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Ranking the Best Backup NFL Quarterbacks for a Potential 2024 Playoff Push

The NFL season is a marathon, not a sprint, and even the most elite quarterbacks are susceptible to injury. A team's playoff hopes can hinge on the performance of their backup quarterback. With the 2024 season looming, let's rank some of the league's best backup quarterbacks who could potentially lead their teams to a postseason push if called upon. This isn't just about arm strength; it's about leadership, game management, and the ability to handle pressure.

Methodology: This ranking considers a combination of factors, including past performance (both starting and backup roles), experience, system fit, and overall potential to step in and succeed. It's a subjective evaluation based on available data and expert opinion.

Tier 1: The Elite

1. Brock Purdy (San Francisco 49ers): Purdy's late-season surge in 2022, despite being a seventh-round pick, catapults him to the top of this list. He showed remarkable poise and a strong arm, indicating a high ceiling even in a backup role. His familiarity with the 49ers' potent offensive system is a major advantage.

2. Cooper Rush (Dallas Cowboys): Rush has consistently proven his reliability in filling in for Dak Prescott. While not a flashy player, he’s a steady hand who knows how to manage games and protect the football – crucial attributes for a backup QB. His experience within the Cowboys' system is invaluable.

Tier 2: The Solid Contributors

3. Gardner Minshew (Indianapolis Colts): Minshew possesses a strong arm and a knack for extending plays. While his consistency has been questioned at times, his experience as a starter gives him a significant edge over other backups. His potential to lead a team to a few wins is high.

4. Jacoby Brissett (Washington Commanders): A veteran with significant starting experience, Brissett brings leadership and a calm demeanor to the table. He's a dependable game manager who can keep the offense moving.

Tier 3: The Wildcards

5. Jordan Love (Green Bay Packers): Love is entering a crucial year. He's had ample time to learn the system behind Aaron Rodgers, and this could be his chance to prove his worth. His potential is high, but his lack of substantial game experience places him lower on the list.

6. Malik Willis (Tennessee Titans): Willis is a high-upside prospect with incredible athleticism. However, his consistency and decision-making need improvement. He could surprise, but it remains a significant question mark.

Factors Beyond the Players

It's crucial to remember that a backup quarterback's success also depends heavily on the supporting cast. A strong offensive line, a reliable running game, and a talented receiving corps can significantly ease the burden on a backup QB. The coaching staff's ability to adapt the game plan also plays a critical role.

Conclusion:

While predicting the future is impossible, these quarterbacks represent some of the NFL's best bets for leading their teams to a successful 2024 season should the starter go down. Their readiness, combined with the strength of their respective teams, will ultimately determine their impact on the playoff race. Keep an eye on these players throughout the upcoming season—they could be the difference between a successful playoff run and an early exit.

Call to Action: What do you think? Who's the best backup QB in the league? Share your thoughts in the comments below!