In the NFL, the spotlight almost always shines on the starting quarterback. They’re the face of the franchise, the centerpiece of the offense, and the player most responsible for leading a team to victory on Sundays. But behind every starter is a backup quarterback who plays a critical — and sometimes overlooked — role in a team’s success. Injuries, unexpected struggles, or late-game situations can quickly thrust these players into the spotlight, and when that moment comes, teams need someone who can step in without missing a beat.
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That’s where elite backup quarterbacks become incredibly valuable. They bring experience, preparation, and the ability to manage the game when called upon. Some backups are former starters with years of NFL experience, while others are younger talents waiting for their opportunity to prove they belong as full-time starters. Either way, their presence gives teams stability and insurance in one of the most demanding positions in professional sports.
According to FanDuel Sportsbook, several backup quarterbacks around the league stand out for their ability to deliver when their number is called. Whether it’s a veteran like Marcus Mariota bringing leadership and mobility, or a high-upside athlete like Justin Fields capable of changing a game with one explosive play, these players represent the best insurance policies teams can have at the quarterback position.
From experienced veterans to promising young passers still developing their game, this list highlights the Top 10 NFL backup quarterbacks identified by FanDuel Sportsbook — players who are ready to step in, lead an offense, and keep their teams competitive when opportunity knocks.
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1. Mac Jones
1. Mac Jones
San Francisco 49ers quarterback Mac Jones (10) looks on during warmups before the game against the Indianapolis Colts at Lucas Oil Stadium. Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images
Mac Jones has the kind of résumé that makes him a high-end backup in the NFL. He’s already started plenty of games in the league, including a playoff season early in his career, so he brings real experience to a quarterback room. As a backup, that experience matters—he understands NFL defenses and can step in without the offense collapsing. Teams value players like Jones because he’s capable of running the system efficiently if the starter goes down.
2. Marcus Mariota
2. Marcus Mariota
Washington Commanders quarterback Marcus Mariota (8) walks to the medical tent during the second half against the Philadelphia Eagles at Northwest Stadium. Credit: Amber Searls-Imagn Images
Marcus Mariota has spent years in the NFL and has transitioned into a reliable veteran presence. His athleticism still stands out, and that mobility gives offensive coordinators flexibility when he’s on the field. As a backup quarterback, Mariota is valuable because he’s seen just about every defensive look imaginable. He’s the type of player who can stabilize a game if called upon.
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3. Justin Fields
3. Justin Fields
New York Jets quarterback Justin Fields (7) during warm ups before the game against the New Orleans Saints at Caesars Superdome. Credit: Stephen Lew-Imagn Images
Justin Fields might be one of the most physically gifted quarterbacks on this list. His combination of speed, arm strength, and playmaking ability gives him a ceiling that many backups simply don’t have. Even when he’s not the starter, his skill set makes him a legitimate threat if he has to step in. Defenses have to respect his ability to turn a broken play into a big gain.
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4. Spencer Rattler
4. Spencer Rattler
New Orleans Saints quarterback Spencer Rattler (2) warms up prior to a game against the Atlanta Falcons at Caesars Superdome. Credit: Matthew Hinton-Imagn Images
Spencer Rattler represents the younger, developmental type of backup quarterback. He has impressive arm talent and confidence in pushing the ball downfield. As a backup, he’s in the perfect position to learn the speed and complexity of the NFL game. With the right development, he could eventually compete for a starting role.
5. Tyson Bagent
5. Tyson Bagent
Chicago Bears quarterback Tyson Bagent (17) practices against the New Orleans Saints before the game at Soldier Field. Credit: Mike Dinovo-Imagn Images
Tyson Bagent is one of the more intriguing backup stories in recent years. Coming from a smaller-school background, he’s had to prove himself at every level, and that grit shows up in his play. He’s calm in the pocket and processes the field better than many expected. As a backup, he offers a reliable option who won’t panic when thrown into action.
6. Jameis Winston
6. Jameis Winston
New York Giants quarterback Jameis Winston (19) looks on during the fourth quarter against the Washington Commanders at MetLife Stadium. Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images
Jameis Winston brings a ton of experience and personality to any quarterback room. He’s thrown for thousands of yards in his career and knows how to operate an NFL offense. While he’s known for taking risks with the football, he can also produce big plays quickly. As a backup, he’s capable of sparking an offense if the team needs a sudden jolt.
7. Drew Lock
7. Drew Lock
Seattle Seahawks quarterback Drew Lock (2) warms up before the game against the New England Patriots in Super Bowl LX at Levi’s Stadium. Credit: Cary Edmondson-Imagn Images
Drew Lock has always had intriguing physical tools, particularly his strong arm and willingness to attack downfield. Over time, he’s settled into the role of a dependable backup who can stretch the field. Coaches appreciate that he’s aggressive but also more composed than earlier in his career. If called upon, he can generate explosive plays that shift momentum.
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8. Anthony Richardson
8. Anthony Richardson
Indianapolis Colts quarterback Anthony Richardson (5) walks off the field after their win against the Las Vegas Raiders at Lucas Oil Stadium. Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images
Anthony Richardson is one of the most dynamic athletes to play quarterback in recent years. His size, speed, and arm strength give him a rare skill set that few players possess. Even as a backup, his upside alone makes him an exciting option. If he gets on the field, his ability to make plays both through the air and on the ground changes how defenses approach the game.
9. J.J. McCarthy
9. J.J. McCarthy
Minnesota Vikings quarterback J.J. McCarthy (9) throws a pass against the Green Bay Packers during the second quarter at U.S. Bank Stadium. Credit: Matt Blewett-Imagn Images
JJ McCarthy brings a winning pedigree and strong leadership qualities to the quarterback position. He’s known for staying poised under pressure and making smart decisions with the football. As a backup, he’s the type of player who can manage a game effectively without trying to do too much. That composure makes him valuable when a team needs steady quarterback play.
10. Davis Mills
10. Davis Mills
Houston Texans quarterback Davis Mills (10) celebrates after a touchdown against the Buffalo Bills in the second quarter at NRG Stadium. Credit: Troy Taormina-Imagn Images
Davis Mills has quietly built a reputation as a dependable backup quarterback. He’s started multiple games in the NFL and shown that he can operate an offense efficiently when needed. Mills tends to play within the structure of the system, which coaches appreciate in a reserve quarterback. He might not be flashy, but he’s the kind of player who can keep a team competitive.
Conclusion
Conclusion
Washington Commanders quarterback Marcus Mariota (8) throws the ball to Commanders tight end Ben Sinnott (82) against the Philadelphia Eagles during the first half at Northwest Stadium. Credit: Amber Searls-Imagn Images
Backup quarterbacks may not always grab headlines, but their value across an NFL season cannot be overstated. The players highlighted by FanDuel Sportsbook represent some of the most capable reserves in the league, combining experience, talent, and readiness. When injuries or tough moments arise, these quarterbacks are the ones teams trust to step in and keep the season on track.
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