Ranking The Top Backup Quarterbacks: Who Could Steal An NFL Playoff Berth In 2024?

David

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Post on Aug 01, 2025

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Ranking the Top Backup Quarterbacks: Who Could Steal an NFL Playoff Berth in 2024?

The NFL season is a brutal marathon, and injuries are an inevitable part of the game. One wrong hit, a nagging ailment that flares up, and suddenly, a team's playoff hopes rest squarely on the shoulders of their backup quarterback. In 2024, several teams boast surprisingly capable understudies, raising the tantalizing question: could a backup QB lead their team to the postseason? Let's rank the top contenders and explore their potential to snatch a playoff berth.

The Contenders: A Tiered Approach

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

Tier 1: Playoff Potential

• Brock Purdy (San Francisco 49ers): Purdy's late-season surge in 2022, culminating in a playoff run before injury, cemented his place as a top backup. His accuracy, composure under pressure, and familiarity with Kyle Shanahan's offensive system give the 49ers a significant advantage should Trey Lance or Sam Darnold falter. Purdy's potential to lead the 49ers to the playoffs is undeniably high, making him the frontrunner in this category.

• Desmond Ridder (Atlanta Falcons): Ridder showed flashes of brilliance in his starts last season, demonstrating improved decision-making and a strong arm. With a strengthened offensive line and improved receiving corps, Ridder, behind starter Taylor Heinicke, has a real chance to shine if given the opportunity and could potentially lead the Falcons to an unexpected playoff push.

Tier 2: Dark Horse Candidates

• Will Levis (Tennessee Titans): A first-round pick, Levis has the raw talent to make a significant impact. While his development remains a work in progress, behind a veteran like Ryan Tannehill, he has the time to learn and refine his game. If Tannehill suffers an injury, Levis could surprise many, although the Titans' overall roster strength might be a limiting factor.

• Bailey Zappe (New England Patriots): Zappe impressed in limited action last season, showcasing a solid arm and decision-making skills. However, his inexperience and the Patriots' relatively unpredictable offense make a playoff run a longer shot. He's a wildcard, capable of surprising if the circumstances align perfectly.

Tier 3: Solid, but Unlikely Playoff Contenders

This tier includes quarterbacks like Cooper Rush (Dallas Cowboys), Gardner Minshew (Indianapolis Colts) and others who are reliable backups but are less likely to elevate their teams to a playoff spot given their teams' current projected standings and the quarterback ahead of them on the depth chart.

Factors Beyond the Quarterback

While the backup quarterback's skill is crucial, several other factors determine a team's playoff chances:

• Team Strength: Even the best backup quarterback struggles with a weak roster. A strong defense, a reliable running game, and a capable offensive line are essential components.
• Coaching: A strong coaching staff can mitigate the challenges posed by a backup quarterback, providing support and adjusting the game plan to suit the backup's strengths.
• Injury Luck: The most significant factor is avoiding further injuries to key players. A team can only overcome so many setbacks.

Conclusion: A Wild Card Season Ahead?

The 2024 NFL season promises excitement, and the potential for a backup quarterback to lead a team to the playoffs is a thrilling possibility. While Brock Purdy stands out as the most likely candidate, don't count out the dark horses. The unpredictable nature of the NFL means that any team could find themselves in a position where their backup quarterback is their key to postseason success. Keep an eye on these players and their teams throughout the season – they could be the story of the year!

Call to Action: What do you think? Who will be the breakout backup QB of 2024? Share your predictions in the comments below!