Ranking The Top Backup Quarterbacks: Who Could Carry An NFL Team In 2024?

David

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Post on May 18, 2025

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Ranking the Top Backup Quarterbacks: Who Could Carry an NFL Team in 2024?

The NFL season is a brutal, unforgiving marathon. One wrong hit, a sudden injury, and a team's Super Bowl hopes can crumble faster than a cheap gingerbread house. That's why the quality of a backup quarterback is paramount. This year, several teams boast surprisingly strong backups capable of not just holding down the fort, but potentially carrying their teams to victory. Let's rank the top backup quarterbacks in the NFL heading into the 2024 season, analyzing their potential to step up and deliver when called upon.

Methodology: Our rankings consider a combination of factors including past performance, proven ability, system familiarity, and overall potential. This isn't just about raw arm talent; it's about leadership, decision-making under pressure, and the ability to execute a game plan effectively.

Tier 1: The Franchise-Ready Reserves

These quarterbacks could realistically start for most NFL teams and be successful.

1. Brock Purdy (San Francisco 49ers): Purdy's late-season surge in 2022, culminating in a playoff run before injury, catapults him to the top spot. His accuracy, decision-making, and leadership qualities are exceptional for a young player. While his health is a question mark, his potential is undeniable. [Link to article about Purdy's injury recovery]

2. Jordan Love (Green Bay Packers): After years of patiently waiting behind Aaron Rodgers, Love finally gets his chance. His preseason performances have been encouraging, showcasing a strong arm and improved accuracy. The Packers' offensive system should be familiar, giving him a leg up. [Link to Packers' preseason game highlights]

3. Desmond Ridder (Atlanta Falcons): Ridder showed flashes of brilliance in his rookie season, showcasing mobility and a willingness to push the ball downfield. With another offseason under his belt, he’s a dark horse candidate for significant improvement. His continued development within the Falcons' system is a key factor in his high ranking.

Tier 2: Solid Contributors, Potential Starters

These quarterbacks are capable starters but might need more time or a slightly less demanding system to truly shine.

4. Will Levis (Tennessee Titans): Levis possesses exceptional arm talent and is considered by many to have high upside. While he's still developing, his potential to become a quality starter is evident. His time in the Titans' system will be crucial for his development.

5. Bailey Zappe (New England Patriots): Zappe impressed in limited action, showing poise and accuracy. He benefits from the Patriots' structured offensive approach, and could easily step in and manage games effectively.

Tier 3: Capable Backups, Limited Upside

These quarterbacks can fill in adequately but aren't likely to lead a team to a deep playoff run.

6. Gardner Minshew (Indianapolis Colts): Minshew has experience as a starter and possesses a gunslinger mentality. While his accuracy can be inconsistent, he brings a level of familiarity and veteran leadership to the role.

7. Taylor Heinicke (Atlanta Falcons): Heinicke is a reliable veteran who can manage a game and make the necessary plays. His experience is invaluable, although his ceiling might be lower compared to some other backups.

Conclusion: The NFL’s backup quarterback landscape is surprisingly robust in 2024. Several players have the potential to lead their teams to success should the starter go down. The season promises thrilling games and exciting opportunities for these talented understudies to shine. Who will rise to the occasion and prove their worth? Only time will tell.

Call to Action: Share your predictions for which backup quarterback will have the biggest impact in 2024! Let us know in the comments below!