Ranking The Top Backup Quarterbacks For A 2024 Playoff Run

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Post on Jan 24, 2025

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Ranking the Top Backup Quarterbacks for a 2024 Playoff Run

The NFL is a game of inches, and often, a game of unexpected injury. While star quarterbacks garner the headlines, the success of many teams hinges on the reliability of their backup. A strong second-string QB can be the difference between a playoff berth and an early offseason. With the 2024 season looming, let's examine the top backup quarterbacks poised to deliver when called upon. This ranking considers a blend of experience, recent performance, and potential upside.

Methodology: This ranking isn't simply about raw stats. We've considered game experience, recent performance in limited action (preseason, spot starts), and overall perceived readiness should they be thrust into a starting role. We've also factored in scheme fit within their respective teams’ offensive systems.

Tier 1: The Elite – Ready to Start Tomorrow

These quarterbacks have proven themselves capable of leading an NFL offense. They offer the most confidence to their teams heading into the 2024 season.

• 1. Brock Purdy (San Francisco 49ers): Purdy's late-season performance in 2022, despite a significant injury, cemented his place as arguably the league's best backup. His poise and arm talent are undeniable. His recovery from surgery will be key, but if healthy, he's the gold standard.

• 2. Jordan Love (Green Bay Packers): After years behind Aaron Rodgers, Love finally gets his chance. His preseason performances will be heavily scrutinized, but his athleticism and arm strength make him a serious threat to lead the Packers should the need arise. Expect a strong showing to solidify his position.

• 3. Cooper Rush (Dallas Cowboys): A consistent performer when given the opportunity, Rush has proven his ability to manage games and lead the Cowboys to victory in Dak Prescott's absence. His experience is invaluable.

Tier 2: Solid Options with Potential

These quarterbacks have shown flashes of brilliance but still need to prove their consistency over a larger sample size. Their ceiling is high, but their floor might be slightly lower than Tier 1.

• 4. Jarrett Stidham (Las Vegas Raiders): Stidham showcased some impressive passing ability in limited action. His performance will determine if he remains a serious contender for the top backup spot.

• 5. Teddy Bridgewater (Miami Dolphins): A seasoned veteran, Bridgewater offers experience and leadership. However, injury concerns have plagued his career, making his long-term reliability a question mark.

• 6. Gardner Minshew (Indianapolis Colts): Minshew is a capable game manager, but his ceiling might be lower than some others on this list.

Tier 3: Developing Talents & High-Risk, High-Reward

This tier includes quarterbacks with significant potential but also considerable uncertainty. Their performance in the 2024 preseason will be crucial.

• 7. Malik Willis (Tennessee Titans): Willis possesses incredible athleticism and a powerful arm, but his accuracy and decision-making need improvement. He represents a high-risk, high-reward option.

• 8. Desmond Ridder (Atlanta Falcons): Ridder showed promise last season and is likely to improve. His growth and development will define how he is perceived as a backup QB.

The Importance of Backup Quarterback Depth

Having a reliable backup is crucial for any team aiming for a deep playoff run. Injuries are inevitable in the NFL, and a team’s ability to seamlessly transition to its backup can be a significant factor in determining success. Keep an eye on these quarterbacks throughout the preseason and regular season.

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