Top 5 Backup Quarterbacks With The Best Chance At A 2024 NFL Playoff Run

David

3 min read

Post on May 30, 2025

4.2

Share

Top 5 Backup Quarterbacks with the Best Chance at a 2024 NFL Playoff Run

The NFL season is a whirlwind of unpredictable injuries and unexpected triumphs. While star quarterbacks garner most of the attention, the backup often holds the key to a team's playoff hopes. A capable understudy can mean the difference between a successful season and a disappointing early exit. So, who are the top backup quarterbacks poised to lead their teams to a 2024 playoff run should the starter go down? We've analyzed the talent, the team's overall strength, and the likelihood of injury to compile this list of the five best-positioned backups.

1. Brock Purdy, San Francisco 49ers: Purdy's late-season surge in 2022, culminating in a dominant performance before his injury, catapulted him to the forefront of backup QB discussions. While his recovery from elbow surgery is crucial, his proven ability to perform under pressure and his familiarity with Kyle Shanahan's offensive system give the 49ers a significant advantage. The 49ers' roster is stacked with talent, making them a serious contender even with a starter injury. The question isn't if Purdy can play well, but rather when he'll be fully ready.

2. Tua Tagovailoa's Backup (Miami Dolphins): The Dolphins haven't officially named a backup QB, but whoever earns the role inherits a potent offense and a strong supporting cast. This makes the backup quarterback position in Miami incredibly valuable. Whoever secures this spot will have a significantly higher chance of playoff success than most other backups. Keeping a close eye on the Dolphins' training camp battles will be crucial to identifying the next potential playoff hero.

3. Cooper Rush, Dallas Cowboys: Rush has proven he can win games in the NFL, stepping up admirably when Dak Prescott has been injured in the past. The Cowboys' roster boasts a formidable offensive line and talented receivers, providing a strong foundation for any quarterback. While not the flashiest option, Rush’s experience and familiarity with the Cowboys' system make him a reliable choice should Prescott face setbacks. His consistency and game management skills are underrated assets.

4. Jordan Love, Green Bay Packers: Love has been patiently waiting for his opportunity, learning behind Aaron Rodgers for years. Now, he's stepping into the spotlight as the Packers' starting quarterback. While not technically a backup in the traditional sense, the transition to a starting role always carries a degree of risk. Should Love face injury, his high draft position and years of mentorship suggest a potential for high-level performance. The Packers' success will ultimately depend on Love's ability to adapt and lead quickly.

5. Jacoby Brissett, Washington Commanders: Brissett offers a veteran presence and experience as a starter in the league. While not known for dazzling plays, he's a reliable game manager with the ability to keep the team in games. The Commanders' roster, while still undergoing development, provides a decent supporting cast for a veteran backup quarterback. This makes Brissett a dark horse contender for leading his team in a playoff push.

Conclusion: The NFL is a game of inches, and sometimes, those inches are determined by the performance of a backup quarterback. These five players stand out as the most likely to make a significant impact should their teams' starting quarterbacks face injury. Their preparedness, their teams' overall strength, and their potential to step up under pressure make them key factors in the 2024 playoff race. Keep an eye on their performances throughout the season – they might just be the surprise heroes of the year. Who do you think has the best chance? Let us know in the comments below!