Backup QB Blues: What It Takes to Make the Grade

The 2026 NFL season is underway, and backup quarterbacks are proving themselves more than just insurance policies against starter injuries. They’re often the unsung heroes who keep teams afloat when their top guns are down. As seen on opening weekend, Sam Darnold’s injury in Seattle forced Drew Lock into action, while Kyler Murray’s concussion prompted the Vikings to turn to Carson Wentz. Both backups helped their teams secure wins, but it was the defense that ultimately carried them across the finish line.

The trend of backup quarterbacks being thrust into the spotlight highlights how little we know about most of them. Teams make decisions about who will be their No. 2 QB based on factors such as draft status, prior experience, and talent. However, many of these players have limited regular-season reps under their belts.

Ranking the league’s backup quarterbacks is a tricky exercise because teams often rely on incomplete information when making decisions about who to promote. Journalist X recently published a ranking of every team’s No. 2 QB, but their list highlighted just how difficult this task can be.

The Hierarchy of Hope

At the top of the rankings sits Fernando Mendoza, the Raiders’ young gun who hasn’t yet played in a regular-season game but has all the makings of a franchise QB. With the highest upside of any player on this list, it’s no wonder he’s generating interest among teams. Marcus Mariota is a reliable veteran backup who can help teams navigate a few games while their starter is out. He’s had success in this role before and has the experience to fall back on.

Further down the list, players like Spencer Rattler and Michael Penix Jr. offer promise despite their limited track records. Rattler showed significant growth last season, while Penix still has a lot of potential given his youth and relatively low draft pick status. Jameis Winston is an interesting case – a high-end backup who can be counted on to put up solid numbers, but also likes to push the envelope with his play style.

The Role of the Undrafted

One player who caught attention was Jalon Daniels, the Buccaneers’ undrafted rookie QB. He may have been a long shot to make the team, but his preseason tape has been impressive, showcasing his ability to spin out of pressure and make throws on the run. While he’s riskier than some of the other players on this list, Daniels also has more upside – which makes him an attractive option for teams looking to build depth.

The Reality Check

This ranking highlights just how difficult the role of backup QB can be. Teams need players who can step up and perform at a high level without much prior experience or preparation – which is why guys like Mariota are so valuable. It also underscores the importance of scouting and development programs that can help young QBs hone their skills.

As the season progresses, it’s worth keeping an eye on how these backup quarterbacks perform when given the chance to shine. Who will step up and prove themselves? Which teams will be able to navigate a few games without their starter? And what does this all say about the state of quarterbacking in the NFL today?