Ranking The Top Backup Quarterbacks: Who Could Make A 2024 NFL Playoff Run?

David

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Post on Jun 21, 2025

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Ranking the Top Backup Quarterbacks: Who Could Make a 2024 NFL Playoff Run?

The NFL is a league of attrition, especially at the quarterback position. One injury can derail even the most promising season. That’s why having a capable backup quarterback is crucial for any team with Super Bowl aspirations. But which backup QBs possess the talent to not just fill in, but potentially lead their team on a playoff run in 2024? Let's dive into a ranking of the top contenders.

The Elite Tier: Proven Performers

This tier includes quarterbacks who have already shown they can win games at the NFL level. Their experience and proven ability to perform under pressure set them apart.

1. Brock Purdy (San Francisco 49ers): Purdy’s late-season surge in 2022, culminating in a dominant playoff performance before injury, catapults him to the top of this list. His accuracy, composure, and understanding of Kyle Shanahan's offense make him a serious threat. While recovering from injury, his potential to return strong makes him a top contender. [Link to 49ers news site]

2. Cooper Rush (Dallas Cowboys): Rush has proven to be a reliable game manager for Dallas, consistently performing well in place of Dak Prescott. While he may not possess the same ceiling as Purdy, his consistency and familiarity with the Cowboys' system make him a valuable asset. [Link to Cowboys news site]

The Rising Stars: Potential Playoff Heroes

These quarterbacks have shown flashes of brilliance and possess the potential to step up and deliver in high-stakes situations.

3. Jordan Love (Green Bay Packers): Love’s time is now. After sitting behind Aaron Rodgers for years, he inherits the starting role in Green Bay. While unproven as a starter, his arm talent and athleticism give him a higher ceiling than many other backups. His performance in 2023 will significantly impact his ranking next year. [Link to Packers news site]

4. Desmond Ridder (Atlanta Falcons): Ridder showed promise in his limited starts towards the end of the 2022 season. His mobility and strong arm could be a valuable weapon for Atlanta, and a successful 2023 campaign will solidify his position among the top backup QBs. [Link to Falcons news site]

The Dark Horses: Sleepers to Watch

These quarterbacks might not be household names, but they possess the talent and potential to surprise everyone in 2024.

5. Will Levis (Tennessee Titans): A high draft pick, Levis's raw talent is undeniable. While he faces a steep learning curve, his potential for significant growth puts him in this category. His development in 2023 will be critical. [Link to Titans news site]

6. Bailey Zappe (New England Patriots): Zappe showed flashes of competence in limited action. While Mac Jones remains the starter, Zappe’s performance in preseason and any potential playing time will be essential to gauge his readiness for a playoff push. [Link to Patriots news site]

Factors Beyond Talent

While individual talent is paramount, other factors contribute to a backup QB's potential for a playoff run:

• Offensive Line: A strong offensive line is crucial for any quarterback, especially a backup stepping into a high-pressure situation.
• Coaching Staff: A supportive and experienced coaching staff can help a backup quarterback adjust quickly and effectively.
• Team Chemistry: A cohesive team environment can provide crucial support and confidence for the backup QB.

Conclusion:

The 2024 NFL season promises excitement, and the potential for backup quarterbacks to step up and lead their teams to the playoffs is real. While predicting the future is impossible, the quarterbacks listed above represent the best bets to potentially make a significant impact should they be called upon. Keep an eye on their development throughout the 2023 season for further insights into their playoff potential. Who do you think will be the surprise playoff hero in 2024? Let us know in the comments below!