Who Is the Best Backup Quarterback for Fantasy Football

We had 62 quarterbacks start an NFL game in 2025. That is up from the 59 in 2024 but on par with the 63 in 2023 and 68 in 2022. Injuries are already plaguing fantasy managers, and while the quarterback position has been spared so far, most current starters won’t start all 17 games this year. I will break down not only which quarterback has the highest probability of starting but also how they might fare when they do.

First, I will give every quarterback a letter grade on the likelihood they see significant playing time.

A= More of when, not if. Around an 85% chance they get playing time. Usually a rookie or heir apparent. Worth rostering.

B= A high chance, around 60%. Probably a young quarterback who might take over for a poor-playing veteran. Only roster in deep leagues.

C= Unlikely but not out of the question. Around a 25% chance they take over. Usually a questionable starter in front of them. Only roster if you have the starter or a super deep bench.

D= Highly unlikely. 10% chance they see time. There is a franchise quarterback in front of them, and they need an actual injury to get playing time. Waiver wire guys.

Next, we give each backup a numerical score. This denotes what their probable outcome will be. A mix of talent and the team around them.

1= A solid QB1 if starting. They have talent. They have a team around them that can make up for any weaknesses they might have.

2= Solid QB2 for fantasy. They might lack the talent or the team around them to help compensate for weaknesses.

3= Streaming option. They have some skills and a decent team, but matchups will dictate if you should play them.

4= These players lack the skills or team to be good enough for fantasy football. You can avoid them.