Backup quarterbacks are one of the most underrated roles in the NFL. Often stuck behind the scenes, these players spend most of their time preparing for a moment that may never come. But when opportunity knocks—whether due to injury, poor performance, or pure chaos—some backups rise to the occasion and deliver unforgettable performances. While they might not have been the face of the franchise, their ability to step in and steady the ship has saved seasons, fueled playoff runs, and, in rare cases, rewritten history.
Whether they were career-long backups or temporary heroes who seized the spotlight, the best second-string quarterbacks have proven that impact doesn’t require a full season of starts. From clutch postseason moments to season-saving relief appearances, these players made the most of their chances and left a lasting impression on the league. Here’s a look at the 30 best backup quarterbacks in NFL history, ranked by their impact, big-game performances, and overall contribution to the game.
30. Chad Henne
Henne etched his name in playoff history with the Kansas City Chiefs in 2021. His heroic conversion on 4th-and-1 against the Browns helped keep their Super Bowl hopes alive.
29. Ryan Fitzpatrick
Fitzmagic was never just a backup, but he made a career out of stepping in and delivering thrilling performances. Whether it was leading Miami’s last-second win over the Raiders or torching defenses in Buffalo, Fitzpatrick was always ready to shine.
28. Shaun Hill
A steady presence for teams like the Vikings and Lions, Hill was the epitome of reliability. While never spectacular, he kept teams afloat whenever he stepped in.
27. Gary Kubiak
Before becoming a Super Bowl-winning coach, Kubiak was John Elway’s backup for nearly a decade. Though he didn’t play much, his mentorship and occasional solid performances made him an invaluable asset.
26. Jeff Hostetler
When Phil Simms went down in 1990, Hostetler stepped in and led the Giants to a Super Bowl XXV victory. Talk about making the most of an opportunity!
25. Frank Reich
Known for orchestrating the greatest comeback in NFL playoff history, Reich led the Bills from 35-3 down to defeat the Oilers in the 1992 playoffs. That alone cements his legacy.
24. Jason Garrett
Garrett spent most of his career backing up Troy Aikman but delivered when needed. His Thanksgiving Day heroics in 1994 proved he could sling it when given the chance.
23. Matt Flynn
Flynn famously cashed in on one game—a 480-yard, six-touchdown performance in 2011. The Packers’ backup turned that outing into a massive contract with Seattle.
22. Nick Mullens
Thrown into action for the 49ers, Mullens put up eye-opening numbers in limited starts. He remains one of those backups who always kept things interesting.
21. Gus Frerotte
Frerotte had a long career as a reliable backup, stepping in for multiple teams when needed. His Pro Bowl season with Washington in 1996 and ability to keep teams competitive made him a valuable second-string quarterback.
20. Jim Sorgi
Sorgi never played much, but as Peyton Manning’s longtime backup, he had a front-row seat to greatness. Plus, you know a guy is important when Manning trusts him with play-call adjustments.
19. Chase Daniel
One of the highest-paid backups ever, Daniel made a career out of holding a clipboard. When he did play, he showed he could manage a game effectively.
18. Doug Flutie
Though he had a storied career in the CFL, Flutie also made waves in the NFL. His famous “Flutie Flakes” and clutch play in Buffalo endeared him to fans.
17. Colt McCoy
McCoy has been the definition of steady over the past decade. He’s stepped in for Washington, Cleveland, and Arizona, proving he can still move the chains when needed.
16. Steve Bono
Bono was Joe Montana’s backup before stepping in for the Chiefs and finding success. His mobility and efficiency made him a perfect understudy.
15. Koy Detmer
As Donovan McNabb’s longtime backup in Philly, Detmer was always ready to go. His quirky throwing motion and leadership made him a fan favorite.
14. Kevin Kolb
Kolb was supposed to replace McNabb in Philadelphia, but injuries derailed his career. When healthy, he showed glimpses of elite quarterbacking.
13. Charlie Whitehurst
“Clipboard Jesus” had one of the best nicknames in football. While he never became a star, he was a capable backup who made sure his teams never missed a beat.
12. Steve Beuerlein
Beuerlein was an elite backup who delivered in Carolina and Dallas. He was always ready when called upon and even led the league in passing yards in 1999.
11. T.J. Yates
Yates came off the bench to win a playoff game for the Texans in 2011. That’s more than many starting quarterbacks can say!
10. Kyle Orton
Orton was good enough to start but always found himself in a backup role. He nearly led the Cowboys to a playoff berth in 2013 after stepping in for Tony Romo.
9. Trent Green
Green was slated to be the Rams’ starter before a preseason injury led to Kurt Warner’s rise. He later found success in Kansas City, proving his talent.
8. Jeff Garcia
Garcia was an electric playmaker who stepped in and thrived in various systems. His comeback wins with the Eagles and Bucs made him a respected veteran presence.
7. Mark Brunell
Brunell was Brett Favre’s backup before making his mark in Jacksonville. Later, he backed up Drew Brees and even won a Super Bowl ring with the Saints.
6. Earl Morrall
Morrall was the ultimate insurance policy, filling in for Johnny Unitas and Bob Griese in Super Bowl runs. His leadership in Miami’s perfect 1972 season is legendary.
5. Vinny Testaverde
Testaverde played forever and was often the guy teams turned to in emergencies. From Tampa Bay to New York, he always found ways to make an impact.
4. Jim Plunkett
Plunkett went from backup to Super Bowl MVP for the Raiders. His career resurgence is one of the best stories in NFL history.
3. Doug Williams
The first Black quarterback to win a Super Bowl, Williams came off the bench and delivered for Washington. His Super Bowl XXII performance was legendary.
Read More: Ranking Every NFL MVP’s Season Since 2000 From Worst to Best
2. Nick Foles
Foles will forever be an icon in Philadelphia after his Super Bowl LII heroics. Stepping in for an injured Carson Wentz, he led the Eagles to their first championship and even outdueled Tom Brady.
Read More: The Most Iconic Athlete from Each State
1. Kurt Warner
No backup story tops Warner’s. He went from grocery store stocker to Super Bowl MVP, taking over for an injured Trent Green and leading the Rams to a championship. His Hall of Fame career started as one of the greatest backup success stories ever.
Read More: Ranking the 45 Greatest NFL Quarterbacks of All Time