Ranking The Best Backup Quarterbacks For A 2024 NFL Playoff Push

David

3 min read

Post on May 08, 2025

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Ranking the Best Backup Quarterbacks for a 2024 NFL Playoff Push

The NFL is a league of attrition, and no position highlights that more brutally than quarterback. Even the most elite starters face injury risks, making the quality of a backup quarterback a crucial factor in any team's playoff aspirations. With the 2024 season looming, let's rank some of the league's best backup QBs poised to deliver when called upon. This isn't just about arm strength; it's about leadership, experience, and the ability to manage a game effectively under pressure.

Methodology: Our ranking considers a combination of past performance, experience in game-day situations, system familiarity within their respective teams, and overall perceived readiness to step in and win games. This isn't a prediction of who will start the most games, but rather an assessment of who is best equipped to succeed should the starter go down.

Tier 1: The Elite Second-Stringers

1. Brock Purdy (San Francisco 49ers): Purdy's late-season performance in 2022 defied expectations, showcasing remarkable composure and accuracy. While his injury history is a concern, his potential to lead a playoff-caliber offense is undeniable. His familiarity with the 49ers' system is a massive advantage.

2. Cooper Rush (Dallas Cowboys): Rush has consistently shown he can win games when given the opportunity, proving his reliability in clutch situations. His experience within the Cowboys' offense makes him a valuable asset. He's the definition of a steady hand in the face of adversity.

3. Gardner Minshew II (Indianapolis Colts): While his career trajectory hasn't followed the initial hype, Minshew has shown flashes of brilliance and possesses a strong arm. His experience as a starter gives him a significant edge over many other backups.

Tier 2: Solid Contributors

4. Teddy Bridgewater (Miami Dolphins): Bridgewater’s experience as a starter is invaluable. He’s a smart, accurate passer who can manage a game effectively, although his mobility has diminished slightly.

5. Jacoby Brissett (Washington Commanders): Brissett's veteran presence and experience in various offensive systems provide a level of stability. He's proven capable of keeping a team competitive.

6. Nick Foles (Indianapolis Colts): Foles’ Super Bowl-winning pedigree speaks for itself. While his recent performance hasn't been stellar, his experience and ability to make big plays in pressure situations can't be discounted.

Tier 3: Potential but Unproven

7. Bailey Zappe (New England Patriots): Zappe showed some promise in limited action last season, but he needs more game experience to prove his readiness for a playoff-contending team.

8. Will Levis (Tennessee Titans): A high draft pick, Levis’s potential is undeniable, but he needs time to develop and prove himself in the NFL.

The Bottom Line:

Having a reliable backup quarterback is a critical factor for teams aiming for a deep playoff run. While injuries are unpredictable, teams with quarterbacks like Brock Purdy or Cooper Rush on their roster have a significantly better chance of navigating adversity and maintaining their playoff hopes. Teams with less experienced backups should consider supplementing their depth chart, perhaps through free agency or strategic trades, to better safeguard their season. The 2024 NFL season promises to be fiercely competitive, and a strong backup QB could be the difference between a championship run and an early exit.

Call to Action: What do you think of our rankings? Share your thoughts and predictions for the 2024 season in the comments below!