Ranking The Best Backup Quarterbacks: Who Could Lead A 2024 NFL Playoff Team?

David

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Post on May 18, 2025

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Ranking the Best Backup Quarterbacks: Who Could Lead a 2024 NFL Playoff Team?

The NFL season is a marathon, not a sprint, and injuries are an inevitable part of the game. While every team dreams of their starting quarterback leading them to the Super Bowl, the reality is that a capable backup can be the difference between a playoff berth and an early offseason. So, as we look ahead to the 2024 season, let's rank some of the best backup quarterbacks who could potentially step up and lead a playoff team if called upon.

This isn't just about arm strength or completion percentage; it's about leadership, game management, and the ability to handle the pressure of playoff football. We're considering experience, recent performance, and overall potential in this ranking.

Top Tier: The Proven Commodities

1. Brock Purdy (San Francisco 49ers): Purdy's late-season surge in 2022, culminating in a strong playoff run before injury, catapults him to the top of this list. His poise, accuracy, and understanding of Kyle Shanahan's offensive system make him a uniquely valuable backup. While his recovery from injury is crucial, his potential to lead a team deep into the playoffs is undeniable.

2. Cooper Rush (Dallas Cowboys): A consistent performer, Rush has proven himself capable of winning games in the NFL. While not possessing the same ceiling as Purdy, his experience and reliability within a strong offensive scheme make him a highly valuable asset for the Cowboys. His ability to manage games and avoid turnovers is a key strength.

3. Josh Dobbs (Arizona Cardinals): Dobbs's performance in limited opportunities has shown flashes of his potential. His mobility and arm strength could translate into success in a pinch, though his experience is less extensive than Rush or Purdy. However, his development under a new coaching staff in Arizona warrants close attention.

Second Tier: High Potential, Moderate Experience

4. Gardner Minshew (Indianapolis Colts): Minshew has shown the ability to take over games, showcasing a strong arm and improvisational skills. He's a riskier bet than those in the top tier but possesses the potential to lead a team to victory in a crucial moment.

5. Jacoby Brissett (Washington Commanders): A veteran presence with a proven track record, Brissett offers a safe, reliable option. While perhaps not possessing the highest upside, his experience and leadership qualities make him a strong backup.

The Dark Horses: Intriguing but Unproven

6. Bailey Zappe (New England Patriots): Zappe's limited action has shown promise, but he needs more time to solidify his place among the elite backups. His potential is high, but consistency remains a question mark.

7. Trey Lance (San Francisco 49ers): Despite injuries, Lance remains a high-potential quarterback. His athleticism and arm talent are undeniable, but he needs to prove his ability to stay healthy and consistently perform under pressure.

Factors Beyond the Ranking

This ranking considers several factors beyond just individual talent. The quality of the offensive line, the coaching staff, and the overall team strength significantly impact a backup quarterback's success. A great backup on a weak team might struggle, while a less-talented backup on a strong team might thrive.

Conclusion:

The 2024 NFL season will undoubtedly see backup quarterbacks playing crucial roles. While predicting the future is impossible, the quarterbacks listed above possess the talent and experience to potentially lead their teams to playoff success if given the opportunity. Keep an eye on these players – their performances could significantly shape the outcome of the season. Which backup quarterback do you think will make the biggest impact in 2024? Let us know in the comments!