Tiered Ranking: NFL Backup Quarterbacks Most Likely To Lead A Playoff Team In 2024

David

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Post on Jun 09, 2025

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Tiered Ranking: NFL Backup Quarterbacks Most Likely to Lead a Playoff Team in 2024

The NFL is a league of unexpected twists and turns. One injury can completely alter a season's trajectory, sending a team scrambling for answers under center. With the 2024 season looming, which backup quarterbacks possess the skill and experience to not just fill in, but potentially lead their team to a playoff berth? We've analyzed the landscape and created a tiered ranking system to assess the likelihood of each backup quarterback steering their team to postseason glory.

Methodology: Our ranking considers a multitude of factors, including a quarterback's past performance (including starts in previous seasons), their current team's offensive capabilities, and the perceived strength of the starting quarterback's injury history and overall durability. We've also factored in coaching schemes and the overall strength of the team's roster.

Tier 1: The Contenders

These quarterbacks have a real shot at leading their teams to the playoffs should the starter go down. They've demonstrated starting-caliber skills in the past and are surrounded by supporting casts capable of winning games.

• Brock Purdy (San Francisco 49ers): Purdy's late-season surge in 2022, culminating in a playoff run, catapults him to the top. While he's recovering from a serious elbow injury, his potential is undeniable. The 49ers' roster remains championship-caliber, making him a prime candidate for playoff success.
• Desmond Ridder (Atlanta Falcons): Ridder showed promise in his starts last season. With a strong running game and improved receiving corps, the Falcons present a viable platform for Ridder to elevate his game and potentially lead them to a wildcard spot.

Tier 2: The Dark Horses

This tier includes quarterbacks with the potential to surprise, though their chances are slightly less likely due to factors like less starting experience, weaker supporting casts, or a higher-risk starting quarterback.

• Jordan Love (Green Bay Packers): Love has been waiting in the wings for his opportunity. The Packers' offensive line and receiving corps are question marks, but Love's arm talent gives him a fighting chance should he be thrust into action.
• Will Levis (Tennessee Titans): A rookie in 2023, Levis will have a steep learning curve. However, if the Titans' offensive line gels and the running game performs well, Levis could offer a spark. His high upside makes him a wild card.

Tier 3: The Long Shots

While these quarterbacks might fill in admirably, their likelihood of leading a playoff team is considerably lower.

• Various Other Backups: Many teams have competent backup quarterbacks, but their teams' overall strength or the backup's lack of proven starting experience makes a playoff run less likely. This includes quarterbacks like Gardner Minshew (Indianapolis Colts) or Jacoby Brissett (Washington Commanders), who are reliable but might not possess the necessary "it" factor to push a team to the postseason.

Conclusion:

The NFL's unpredictability ensures that any backup quarterback could find themselves unexpectedly in the spotlight. While Brock Purdy and Desmond Ridder stand out as the most likely candidates to lead their teams to the playoffs in 2024, the season remains rife with possibilities. Keep an eye on Jordan Love and Will Levis; they have the talent to disrupt expectations. The upcoming season promises exciting drama, highlighting the importance of a strong backup quarterback in the always-competitive NFL. What are your predictions? Let us know in the comments below!