NFL 2024 Playoff Contenders: Ranking Backup QBs With Starting Potential

Soundshade

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Post on Feb 22, 2025

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NFL 2024 Playoff Contenders: Ranking Backup QBs with Starting Potential

The NFL is a league of razor-thin margins. One injury to a star quarterback can completely derail a playoff contender's season. This year, more than ever, the quality of backup quarterbacks is crucial. So, which teams boast backups with the potential to step in and keep their playoff hopes alive? Let's rank the NFL's backup QBs with the highest starting potential heading into the 2024 season.

Methodology: This ranking considers a combination of factors including past performance, recent play, experience in similar offensive systems, and overall perceived talent. We're looking at quarterbacks who could realistically step in and maintain a team's competitive edge, not simply fill a roster spot.

Tier 1: Ready to Start Tomorrow

1. Brock Purdy (San Francisco 49ers): Purdy's late-season success in 2022, despite limited experience, catapults him to the top of this list. His poise, accuracy, and leadership qualities are exceptional for a young quarterback. While injury concerns exist, a healthy Purdy is arguably a top-15 NFL starter.

2. Jordan Love (Green Bay Packers): After years of learning behind Aaron Rodgers, Love finally has his chance. His pre-season performance showed flashes of brilliance, and a strong supporting cast in Green Bay gives him a real opportunity to prove himself.

3. Desmond Ridder (Atlanta Falcons): Ridder showed improvement in his limited starts last season. The Falcons are building around him, and his dual-threat ability makes him a potentially dynamic starter in the right system.

Tier 2: High Ceiling, Some Concerns

4. Will Levis (Tennessee Titans): Levis is a raw but talented prospect. While he faces a steep learning curve, his arm strength and athleticism give him a high ceiling. His development will be a key storyline in Tennessee.

5. Malik Willis (Tennessee Titans): Another Titan, Willis possesses elite athleticism but needs significant refinement in his passing mechanics. He could surprise, but consistency is his biggest hurdle.

6. Bailey Zappe (New England Patriots): Zappe impressed in limited appearances last season, showcasing a strong arm and decision-making. However, he needs to prove he can handle a full season under pressure.

Tier 3: Depth, Limited Starting Potential

This tier includes capable backups who could manage a game or two but are unlikely to carry a team to the playoffs. Examples include players like Cooper Rush (Dallas Cowboys) and Gardner Minshew (Indianapolis Colts). These quarterbacks provide valuable experience and insurance but are not considered likely starting-caliber players.

Impact on Playoff Contenders:

The presence of a high-quality backup QB significantly impacts a team's playoff odds. Teams like the 49ers and Packers, with Purdy and Love respectively, enter the season with significantly less anxiety regarding potential quarterback injuries. Conversely, teams with weaker backup options face a much higher risk of a season-altering setback.

Looking Ahead:

The 2024 NFL season will offer compelling narratives surrounding these backup quarterbacks. Their performance could define playoff races and ultimately shape the league’s power dynamics. Keep an eye on these players—their success or failure could determine the fate of their teams' playoff aspirations.

Call to Action: Who do you think is the most underrated backup quarterback in the NFL? Share your thoughts in the comments below!