Ranking The Top Backup NFL Quarterbacks: Who Could Spearhead A 2024 Playoff Contender?

David

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Post on Jun 17, 2025

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Ranking the Top Backup NFL Quarterbacks: Who Could Spearhead a 2024 Playoff Contender?

The NFL is a league of attrition, especially at the quarterback position. One injury can shatter a team's playoff hopes in an instant. So, while the starting quarterbacks grab the headlines, the quality of the backup is often the unsung hero (or villain) of a successful season. As we look ahead to the 2024 season, let's rank the top backup quarterbacks who possess the potential to lead a team to the playoffs should the need arise.

Methodology: This ranking considers a combination of factors: past performance, experience, skillset, and overall potential to succeed in a starting role. We're looking beyond just raw stats and considering game management, leadership qualities, and the ability to adapt to different offensive systems.

Tier 1: The Playoff-Ready Gunslingers

1. Brock Purdy (San Francisco 49ers): Purdy's surprising late-season success in 2022 catapults him to the top of this list. While his injury history is a concern, his arm talent, composure under pressure, and ability to lead an offense are undeniable. If healthy, Purdy could easily lead a contender to a deep playoff run.

2. Cooper Rush (Dallas Cowboys): A consistent performer, Rush has proven he can win games in the NFL. While not a flashy talent, his experience and reliability make him a valuable asset for any team. He offers a steady hand and a game-manager approach that could keep a team competitive.

3. Gardner Minshew (Indianapolis Colts): Minshew possesses a unique blend of arm talent and improvisational skills. His experience as a starter gives him a significant edge. While his consistency can be questioned, his ceiling is higher than many other backups.

Tier 2: Promising Potential, But Unproven in the Spotlight

4. Bailey Zappe (New England Patriots): Zappe showed flashes of potential in limited action. He'll need more opportunities to prove himself, but his strong arm and accuracy suggest he could develop into a reliable starter. His future is bright, but more playing time is crucial.

5. Will Grier (Dallas Cowboys): Grier’s experience and familiarity with the NFL system make him a solid option for the Cowboys. While he hasn't seen extensive playing time, his potential remains untapped.

Tier 3: Solid Depth, But Likely Not Playoff Material as a Starter

This tier includes quarterbacks who are primarily viewed as capable backups, providing insurance but not expected to carry a team to a deep playoff run. Examples include players like Jacoby Brissett (Washington Commanders) and others depending on team roster moves before the season.

The X-Factor: Offensive Line and Coaching

It's crucial to remember that a backup quarterback's success isn't solely dependent on their individual talent. A strong offensive line providing protection and a capable coaching staff capable of adjusting the game plan are equally important factors in determining whether a backup can lead a team to playoff contention. A team with a stellar offensive line and a creative offensive coordinator might find success with even a lower-ranked backup quarterback.

Conclusion: The 2024 NFL season promises exciting quarterback battles, even among the backups. The players mentioned above represent the cream of the crop, possessing the skills and experience to potentially lead their teams to unexpected playoff success should the need arise. Keep an eye on these players; they might just be the unexpected heroes of the season. Let us know in the comments who you think is the best backup QB heading into 2024!