Ranking The NFL's Backup QBs: Potential Playoff Heroes For 2024

David

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Post on May 15, 2025

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Ranking the NFL's Backup QBs: Potential Playoff Heroes for 2024

The NFL season is a marathon, not a sprint, but even the most durable starting quarterbacks can falter. A single injury can derail a playoff push, making the quality of a team's backup quarterback crucial. This year, several teams boast backups with the potential to step up and become unlikely playoff heroes. Let's rank some of the NFL's most promising backup QBs heading into the 2024 season.

Methodology: This ranking considers a combination of factors: previous NFL experience, recent performance (including preseason games), passing statistics, and overall perceived readiness to handle a starting role. We're focusing on players likely to see significant playing time should their team's starter go down.

Tier 1: The Ready-to-Roll

1. Brock Purdy (San Francisco 49ers): Purdy's performance at the end of the 2022 season, despite a late-season injury, catapults him to the top of this list. His impressive arm talent and composure under pressure solidify his position as one of the league's most capable backups. His recovery from elbow surgery will be crucial, but if healthy, he's a potential game-changer.

2. Gardner Minshew (Indianapolis Colts): Minshew's experience and ability to extend plays make him a valuable asset. He's proven he can lead an offense and has the confidence to succeed even in high-pressure situations. His mobility gives the Colts a different dimension from their starting QB.

Tier 2: Promising Prospects

3. Desmond Ridder (Atlanta Falcons): Ridder showed flashes of brilliance in his limited starting opportunities last season. While he still needs to improve his consistency, his athleticism and potential make him a high-ceiling backup. The Falcons' investment in him suggests they see a bright future.

4. Bailey Zappe (New England Patriots): Zappe exceeded expectations in his limited appearances last year, demonstrating a strong arm and accuracy. His performance in the preseason will be crucial in solidifying his position in this tier. The Patriots' system suits his strengths.

5. Will Levis (Tennessee Titans): A highly touted rookie, Levis has the potential to become a significant NFL player. However, his limited game experience puts him in the 'promising prospect' category. His development will be closely watched throughout the 2024 season.

Tier 3: Solid Depth

This tier includes backups with less proven experience but who provide adequate depth to their respective teams. Players like Cooper Rush (Dallas Cowboys) and Nathan Peterman (Las Vegas Raiders) fall into this category. Their roles primarily focus on providing a steady hand in practice and being prepared for emergencies.

The Wildcard Factor: Unexpected Stars

It's worth noting that the NFL is full of surprises. An unheralded backup could unexpectedly rise to the occasion, proving their worth in the face of adversity. Keep an eye on training camp performances – a breakout star could emerge from anywhere.

Conclusion: Backup QB Significance

The importance of a capable backup quarterback cannot be overstated. These players can be the difference between a successful playoff run and an early exit. While the starting quarterbacks grab the headlines, the backups are quietly preparing for their moment to shine. The 2024 season promises to be exciting, and the performances of these backups could significantly impact the playoff picture. Keep checking back for updates as the season unfolds!

Keywords: NFL, backup quarterbacks, playoff, 2024 season, Brock Purdy, Gardner Minshew, Desmond Ridder, Bailey Zappe, Will Levis, NFL rankings, football, sports news, NFL news.