Ranking of the Best Backup Quarterbacks in the NFL: Analysis and Surprises

Analysis of the Best Backup Quarterbacks in the NFL

Joe Burrow’s injury, the Bengals’ quarterback, during the game against the Jaguars, highlighted the importance of having a quality backup. Fortunately for the Bengals, Jake Browning proved to be a solid option. In the world of backup quarterbacks, the preparation and ability of the number two can make the difference between victory and defeat.

With several starters out or questionable for Week 3, it’s the perfect time to analyze the best backups in the league. This task is complicated, as many of these players have little to no NFL experience, but here’s the analysis:

• Kirk Cousins, Atlanta Falcons: Cousins, with experience as a starter, is a luxury as a backup. Despite a disappointing 2024 season, his track record makes him a reliable option.
• Jake Browning, Cincinnati Bengals: Browning proved his worth by leading the Bengals after Burrow’s injury. His performance in 2023, although with a limited sample, was impressive.
• Jaxson Dart, New York Giants: Dart’s youth and potential make him a backup with great projection.
• Marcus Mariota, Washington Commanders: Mariota, with a decade in the NFL, has proven to be a solid backup.
• Tanner McKee, Philadelphia Eagles: McKee has shown a positive performance in the preseason and in the few games he has played.
• Jacoby Brissett, Arizona Cardinals: Brissett performed well as a starter in Cleveland and is an experienced option.
• Gardner Minshew, Kansas City Chiefs: Minshew had ups and downs in Las Vegas, but proved his worth in Indianapolis.
• Tyler Shough, New Orleans Saints: Shough has potential, although he still has to prove it in the regular season.
• Anthony Richardson Sr., Indianapolis Colts: Richardson has high potential, despite his accuracy problems.
• Andy Dalton, Carolina Panthers: Dalton, with experience as a starter, offers stability to the team.
• Carson Wentz, Minnesota Vikings: Wentz could be the starter due to J.J. McCarthy’s injury. His career has had ups and downs, but he has experience in the league.
• Jameis Winston, New York Giants: Winston, although he is number 3, has a history of good performance when he has had the opportunity to play.

Jayden Daniels’ injury raises questions about his participation in the next game.

Adam Schefter reports on Jayden Daniels’ knee sprain, putting his participation in Week 3 in doubt.The NFL is a sport where roster depth is crucial. The ability to have competent backups can make the difference in the pursuit of success. With the season underway, the performance of these backup quarterbacks will be key to the fate of their teams. J.J. McCarthy’s injury, who is expected to be out for 2-4 weeks due to an ankle injury, could give Wentz the opportunity to prove his worth.

Adam Schefter says J.J. McCarthy will not play against the Bengals due to an ankle injury and will likely be replaced by Carson Wentz.