Ranking The Top Backup QBs: Contenders For A 2024 NFL Playoff Run

David

3 min read

Post on Jul 04, 2025

4.8

Share

Ranking the Top Backup QBs: Contenders for a 2024 NFL Playoff Run

The NFL season is a marathon, not a sprint. One wrong hit, a nagging injury, or a sudden slump can derail even the most promising Super Bowl hopes. That's why having a reliable backup quarterback is crucial for any team aiming for a playoff berth in 2024. But which backup quarterbacks offer the best chance of keeping their teams in the hunt should their starter falter? Let's dive into a ranking of the top contenders.

Methodology: This ranking considers a combination of factors: past performance, recent play, experience in the NFL system, and overall skillset. It's important to remember that the context of their respective teams also plays a significant role in their potential impact.

Tier 1: The Elite Second-Strings

These quarterbacks possess the talent and experience to step in and potentially win games at a high level.

1. Brock Purdy (San Francisco 49ers): Purdy's late-season surge in 2022, culminating in a strong playoff performance before injury, catapults him to the top spot. His accuracy, pocket presence, and ability to extend plays make him a uniquely valuable backup. His recovery from injury will be key to his ranking staying this high, however.

2. Gardner Minshew (Indianapolis Colts): Minshew has proven himself capable of leading an NFL offense, boasting a strong arm and improvisational skills. His experience and familiarity with multiple systems give him an edge.

Tier 2: Solid Contributors

These quarterbacks are capable of managing games and keeping their teams competitive, although a sustained playoff run might be a stretch.

3. Cooper Rush (Dallas Cowboys): Rush has demonstrated the ability to win games for the Cowboys, albeit against less formidable opponents. His experience within the Dallas system is invaluable.

4. Jacoby Brissett (Washington Commanders): A seasoned veteran, Brissett offers reliability and a steady hand. While he might not possess the high ceiling of some others, his experience makes him a dependable option.

Tier 3: The Wild Cards

These quarterbacks have shown flashes of potential but lack significant starting experience to confidently project their performance in a critical situation.

5. Will Grier (Dallas Cowboys): While lacking extensive game experience, Grier’s potential is enough to warrant keeping an eye on.

Factors Affecting Backup QB Value:

• Offensive Scheme Familiarity: A quarterback's understanding of the playbook and his team's offensive system is crucial for seamless transitions.
• Coaching Staff: A strong coaching staff can effectively utilize a backup's strengths and minimize their weaknesses.
• Supporting Cast: A strong offensive line and receiving corps can significantly bolster a backup QB's performance.

The Bottom Line:

The value of a backup quarterback is often underestimated until the need arises. Teams with elite backup quarterbacks like Brock Purdy significantly improve their chances of a deep playoff run in 2024. The upcoming season will undoubtedly reveal whether these rankings hold true, as the performance of these quarterbacks under pressure will dictate their team's success.

Call to Action: What do you think? Which backup quarterback is most likely to lead their team to a playoff victory in 2024? Share your predictions in the comments below!