Top 10 quarterbacks who were supposed to be backups

GiveMeSport

By Todd Neikirk

Published Nov 10, 2023

Most backup QBs remain just that for the length of their careers, but these 10 guys were able to burst out of that backup cocoon to become starters.

Backups can become stars. Jeff Hostetler and Nick Foles went from backup quarterbacks to successful starters, leading their teams to Super Bowls and earning Super Bowl MVP awards.
Sometimes it takes perseverance. Steve Young and Kurt Warner faced multiple obstacles before getting their chance to start and excel in the NFL.
Sitting and learning can pay off. Aaron Rodgers and Kirk Cousins both spent time as backups before becoming successful starters, proving that sometimes it's best for quarterbacks to soak in the game before taking the field.