Star quarterbacks often steal the spotlight in the NFL’s race for the Lombardi Trophy. But injuries are an unavoidable part of football. This season, the Kansas City Chiefs have faced their share of setbacks, with key players like Isiah Pacheco and Marquise Brown dealing with injuries. On Sunday, they faced their biggest challenge yet: quarterback Patrick Mahomes left the game early with a high ankle sprain, limping off the field.
Mahomes is no stranger to playing through injuries. He famously fought through a similar ankle issue during the Chiefs’ 2022 Super Bowl run. However, this time he might need to sit out, which could affect the team’s chances as the postseason approaches. This raises an important question: How will Kansas City perform without their star quarterback? And which teams are best prepared to handle injuries at such a critical position?
The Chiefs have relied heavily on Mahomes’ talent, but now they’ll need to prove they can adapt without him. Meanwhile, other top teams must also think about their backup plans, as injuries are a constant challenge in the NFL.
Here, we’re ranking all the backup quarterbacks for the current projected playoff teams:
2024 NFL QB Power Rankings
2024 NFL QB Power Rankings
1
Carson Wentz
Kansas City Chiefs QB
One reason Mahomes might sit and rest for a week or two is the fact Wentz has an abundance of starting experience, giving Kansas City a capable hand with a No. 1 playoff seed in reach. Yes, he flamed out in multiple stops due to a penchant for reckless gunslinging, but he’s still got a big frame and big arm, with almost 100 NFL games under his belt. His brief late-year action with the Los Angeles Rams to close 2023 confirmed he’s a high-upside fill-in for a contending lineup.
2
Jimmy Garoppolo
Los Angeles Rams QB
The 33-year-old has yet to take a snap with the Rams, but he’s been there, done that, at nearly the highest level. Durability is an issue, especially behind an inconsistent front, but Garoppolo has proven capable of shepherding a run-first and play-action attack, reaching two NFC title games with the rival San Francisco 49ers.
3
Justin Fields
Pittsburgh Steelers QB
The former Chicago Bears first-rounder suffered an abdominal injury in Week 15, but provided he returns soon, he makes for an especially intriguing No. 2. Electric but erratic as a full-timer in Windy City, he calmed down as more of a ball-control operator to open his Steelers debut.
4
Malik Willis
Green Bay Packers QB
Saddled with poor setups as a Tennessee Titans prospect, Willis found new life as Jordan Love’s fill-in this year, excelling as the efficient figurehead of a run-heavy Matt LaFleur scheme during two different injury-related absences by Love. He’s yet to face a consistent barrage of tests as a big-time thrower while in Green Bay, but his physical tools and comfort in the system are big pluses.
5
Kenny Pickett
Philadelphia Eagles QB
He was more scrappy than reliable in two seasons starting for the Pittsburgh Steelers, and he’s yet to see any meaningful action as Jalen Hurts’ No. 2 in Philadelphia, but Pickett has the benefit of playing for an offense outfitted with top-tier playmakers at basically every position. With decent mobility and that kind of support, it stands to reason he’d provide competence if called upon.
6
Davis Mills
Houston Texans QB
The former third-rounder hasn’t started a game in two years, and he was something of a streaky pocket passer when called upon, with 35 touchdowns to 25 picks, but Mills consistently displayed a resilient attitude while working with a much poorer supporting cast than he has now.
7
Marcus Mariota
Washington Commanders QB
The last time Mariota was thrust into a starting gig, he flamed out as the Atlanta Falcons’ placeholder, struggling to find a rhythm as a passer. In truth, he’s always been scattershot through the air. His legs are still a weapon, though, and that’s perfect for Washington’s run-heavy script.
8
Josh Johnson
Baltimore Ravens QB
At 38, well-traveled as a journeyman backup, Johnson can start a game in a pinch like no other. The man has knowledge of just about every system there is. He hasn’t won a start in six years, however, and has thrown all of three passes over the last three seasons.
9
Jarrett Stidham
Denver Broncos QB
Once hailed as a future starter by Sean Payton, the former New England Patriots and Las Vegas Raiders prospect was serviceable, if unspectacular, after replacing the benched Russell Wilson late in 2023. He’s gone just 1-3 as a starter between three teams.
10
Taylor Heinicke
Los Angeles Chargers QB
A folk hero in Washington for a gritty playoff effort against the Tom Brady-led Tampa Bay Buccaneers back in 2020, Heinicke has a definite underdog flair, but he’s struggled to control the ball in every extended opportunity. He’s thrown just three passes with the Chargers.
