Ranking The Top Backup Quarterbacks: Who's Ready For A 2024 Playoff Push?

David

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Post on Jun 04, 2025

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Ranking the Top Backup Quarterbacks: Who's Ready for a 2024 Playoff Push?

The NFL is a game of inches, and often, a game of unexpected twists. A star quarterback going down with an injury can derail even the most promising season. That's why having a capable backup is crucial, particularly for teams with Super Bowl aspirations. As we look ahead to the 2024 season, let's rank some of the league's top backup quarterbacks and assess their readiness to step up and lead their teams to a playoff push.

Methodology: Our rankings consider a combination of factors: past performance, recent play, experience, and overall perceived readiness to handle a starting role in a high-pressure situation. This isn't a prediction of who will start, but rather an assessment of which backups are best equipped to perform at a high level if called upon.

Tier 1: The Elite

This tier consists of quarterbacks who have proven themselves capable of leading NFL offenses at a high level. They're not just capable backups; they're potential starters on many teams.

1. Brock Purdy (San Francisco 49ers): Purdy's late-season performance in 2022, culminating in a playoff run, catapults him to the top of this list. His impressive arm talent and decision-making under pressure solidify his position as one of the league's most promising young quarterbacks, even in a backup role. He's not just filling a spot; he's a legitimate threat.

2. Cooper Rush (Dallas Cowboys): Rush has consistently shown he can win games in the NFL, filling in admirably for Dak Prescott on several occasions. His experience and familiarity with the Cowboys' system make him a valuable asset. While not a flashy player, he's reliable and dependable – key qualities in a backup.

Tier 2: The Proven

These quarterbacks have significant NFL experience and have shown flashes of brilliance, though perhaps not consistently at a high level.

3. Jacoby Brissett (Washington Commanders): Brissett brings years of experience and a steady hand to the Commanders. He might not possess the explosive upside of some younger quarterbacks, but his consistency and leadership are invaluable in a backup role.

4. Teddy Bridgewater (Miami Dolphins): A veteran with a proven track record, Bridgewater provides experience and stability. While he's had injury issues in the past, his ability to manage a game and make smart decisions is a significant asset for Miami.

Tier 3: The Rising Stars/Wildcards

This category includes quarterbacks with potential but who may lack extensive starting experience.

5. Gardner Minshew (Indianapolis Colts): Minshew is a charismatic quarterback with a unique playing style. His potential is undeniable, but consistency remains a key factor in solidifying his place among the top backups.

6. Bailey Zappe (New England Patriots): Zappe showed promise in limited action last season. His future remains uncertain, but his performance in 2023 will significantly impact his standing.

The Importance of Backup Quarterbacks

The role of a backup quarterback is often underestimated. A team's success can hinge on the performance of their backup if the starter gets injured. The quarterbacks listed above represent a range of experience and potential, but all demonstrate the importance of having a high-quality player ready to step in at a moment's notice. The 2024 season will be a critical test for many of these players, and their performance could significantly impact their team's playoff hopes.

Call to Action: Who do you think is the best backup quarterback in the NFL? Let us know in the comments below! Which team has the most secure backup situation? Join the discussion!