Ranking The Top Backup QBs: Who Could Surprise In The 2024 NFL Playoffs?

David

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Post on Jun 08, 2025

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Ranking the Top Backup QBs: Who Could Surprise in the 2024 NFL Playoffs?

The NFL is a league of unpredictable twists and turns, and few scenarios are as dramatic as a starting quarterback going down with injury. Suddenly, the fate of a playoff contender rests on the shoulders of the backup – a player often relegated to the sidelines, practicing diligently but rarely seeing significant game action. But in 2024, several backup quarterbacks possess the potential to not only fill in admirably but to potentially lead their teams to unexpected playoff success. Let's rank the top contenders and assess their chances of surprising us all.

The Contenders: A Tiered Approach

We've categorized these backup QBs based on their experience, talent, and the overall strength of their respective teams.

Tier 1: The Proven Commodities

• 1. Brock Purdy (San Francisco 49ers): Purdy's late-season surge in 2022 catapulted him to stardom. While recovering from a serious elbow injury, his potential remains undeniable. If healthy, he's arguably the most talented backup in the league and a legitimate threat to lead the 49ers deep into the playoffs should Trey Lance or Sam Darnold falter. His ability to read defenses and make quick decisions makes him a valuable asset.

• 2. Cooper Rush (Dallas Cowboys): Rush has consistently proven his reliability in relief of Dak Prescott. He's not flashy, but he's efficient and possesses the experience to manage a game effectively. The Cowboys' strong roster makes them a dangerous team even with Rush at the helm. His understanding of the Cowboys' offensive system is a significant advantage.

Tier 2: The Wild Cards

• 3. Gardner Minshew (Indianapolis Colts): Minshew's flair and improvisational skills make him an exciting prospect. While his consistency can be questioned, his arm talent is undeniable. If the Colts' starting quarterback struggles, Minshew could bring a spark to their offense. His performances with the Jacksonville Jaguars, though inconsistent, demonstrate a capacity to make game-changing plays.

• 4. Jordan Love (Green Bay Packers): Love has been patiently waiting for his opportunity. With Aaron Rodgers now gone, the pressure is on, but the talent is there. The Packers' supporting cast is crucial here; if the team remains strong, Love's potential could be unleashed. This will be a critical season in determining his true NFL ceiling.

Tier 3: The Intriguing Underdogs

• 5. Malik Willis (Tennessee Titans): Willis is a high-upside player with immense potential, but raw. His athleticism and arm strength are undeniable, but he needs more experience and refinement to consistently perform at a high level. The Titans' success would heavily rely on his development.

Factors Beyond the Quarterback:

It’s crucial to remember that a backup quarterback’s success hinges on more than just their individual talent. The strength of the offensive line, the quality of the running game, and the overall coaching staff are all critical factors. A strong running game can take pressure off a backup QB, allowing them to make simpler reads and manage the game effectively.

Predicting the Unpredictable:

Predicting playoff success is always a challenge, and the performance of backup quarterbacks adds another layer of complexity. However, based on their talent and experience, the quarterbacks listed above have the potential to exceed expectations in 2024. Whether they can lead their teams to unexpected victories remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: the upcoming NFL season will be filled with dramatic moments and the possibility of surprising playoff runs.

Call to Action: Who do you think will be the biggest surprise backup QB in the 2024 NFL Playoffs? Share your predictions in the comments below!