Ranking The Best Backup QBs: 2024 NFL Playoff Dark Horses

David

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Post on May 31, 2025

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Ranking the Best Backup QBs: 2024 NFL Playoff Dark Horses

The NFL playoffs are a crucible of pressure, where even the slightest injury can derail a Super Bowl hopeful. This season, the backup quarterback position takes on even greater significance, and several teams boast understudies who could unexpectedly catapult their squads into playoff contention – or even a deep postseason run. Forget the star quarterbacks; let's dive into the unsung heroes, the potential playoff dark horses hiding in plain sight: the best backup QBs of 2024.

Methodology: Our rankings consider a blend of factors, including past performance, current team situation, and perceived potential to step in and win games. We're not just looking at raw stats; we're assessing game management, leadership qualities, and overall suitability for playoff-level pressure.

Top 5 Backup QBs with Playoff Potential:

1. Brock Purdy (San Francisco 49ers): Purdy's unexpected rise last season, despite a limited sample size, makes him the frontrunner. His poise under pressure and surprising arm talent showcased a potential franchise QB. While his elbow injury is a concern, a healthy Purdy could be the difference between a 49ers Super Bowl run or an early exit. Keyword: Brock Purdy.

2. Desmond Ridder (Atlanta Falcons): Ridder showed flashes of brilliance in his limited starts last year, displaying mobility and a strong arm. With a full offseason as the clear-cut number two, and an improved Atlanta team around him, Ridder's potential for a breakout performance is significant. Keyword: Desmond Ridder.

3. Gardner Minshew (Indianapolis Colts): A fan favorite for his personality and improvisational skills, Minshew brings veteran experience and a winning attitude. While he might not be the most polished passer, his ability to extend plays and keep drives alive could prove invaluable in clutch situations. Keyword: Gardner Minshew.

4. Will Grier (Dallas Cowboys): Grier is a former third-round pick with considerable talent, albeit lacking significant NFL experience. The Cowboys' offensive system is quarterback-friendly, potentially allowing Grier to excel if given the opportunity. This pick is a gamble, but the upside is high. Keyword: Will Grier.

5. Teddy Bridgewater (Miami Dolphins): A veteran presence with proven starting experience, Bridgewater offers stability and reliability. While not known for his explosive plays, he's a capable game manager who minimizes mistakes – a crucial asset in a playoff setting. Keyword: Teddy Bridgewater.

Honorable Mentions: Several other backup quarterbacks deserve recognition, including Bailey Zappe (New England Patriots) and Jarrett Stidham (Denver Broncos). Their potential to step up remains uncertain, but their presence provides a safety net for their respective teams.

The Impact of the Backup QB:

The importance of a strong backup quarterback cannot be overstated. An effective understudy can provide crucial insurance against injury, ensuring the team's competitiveness remains unaffected. In some cases, as evidenced by Purdy last season, a high-performing backup can even elevate a team beyond expectations.

Predicting the Unpredictable:

Ultimately, predicting playoff success is an inherently difficult task. However, the caliber of backup quarterbacks on these rosters hints at the potential for surprising playoff runs. Keep a close eye on these players as the season unfolds; they may just be the unexpected heroes who lead their teams to glory.

Call to Action: Who do you think will be the biggest surprise backup quarterback this season? Share your predictions in the comments below!