With the emergence of some backup quarterbacks, there are now some clear-cut options as the top backups in the league.

Andy Dalton, Carolina Panthers

Dalton has made his way around the league since leaving the Cincinnati Bengals in 2019.

He has played for four different teams including the Panthers, and has found himself a spot to be a big-time backup for a young and developing squad.

In his first start since the benching of Bryce Young, Dalton threw for 319 yards and three touchdowns while leading his team to a victory over the Raiders.

Dalton will remain the starter for the Panthers and look to continue to lead the team to victories after struggling in the first two weeks of the season.

Justin Fields, Pittsburgh Steelers

Despite playing the first three weeks of the season, Fields is still technically the backup quarterback.

On the official depth chart, and according to head coach Mike Tomlin, there is no decision to be made about the starter with Russell Wilson’s injury.

Fields has taken advantage of the play. In a much more run-heavy system, Fields is thriving by not turning the ball over and playing consistent football.

He has shown improvement with each week and the Steelers are 3-0 with him as the starter.

Malik Willis, Green Bay Packers

In Matt LeFleur’s offense, Malik Willis has thrived while Jordan Love has remained out with an injury.

Despite some hesitancy about him becoming the starter, Willis has proved doubters wrong and has looked like the quarterback he was coming out of college.

Despite the numbers not being there, he has played well enough to lead his team to victory with two wins.

Jameis Winston, Cleveland Browns

It’s only a matter of time until Winston gets some significant playing time as the starter.

Winston has given teams some consistent play and with the Browns struggles continuing with Deshaun Watson, Winston will be in for some playing time in the near future.

He was a solid backup for the Saints a season ago with Derek Carr struggling.

Although he hasn’t played up to the caliber of a top pick in the draft, Winston has given solid play for any team he has been on.

Jimmy Garoppolo, Los Angeles Rams

Although he didn’t have a strong 2023 season, Garoppolo is still among the top of the list when it comes to backups.

Garoppolo was a fantastic starter for the 49ers and had a decent season with the Raiders. His veteran presence would immediately show up with the Rams.

His situation is a bit different as Matthew Stafford has played really well despite a lot of injuries around him.

All of these backups have or could play a pretty significant role in the team’s play in the future with some poor play of the starters or a veteran presence, if necessary.

Andrew Deal is a second-year majoring in broadcast journalism. To contact him, please email asd5765@psu.edu.