NFL teams are increasingly relying on their backup quarterbacks early in the season, with injuries and ineffectiveness prompting changes already for five teams. The Miami Dolphins, Minnesota Vikings, Pittsburgh Steelers, Green Bay Packers, and Carolina Panthers have all turned to their QB2. Notably, Miami is already on its third quarterback following injuries to Tua Tagovailoa and Skylar Thompson.
Minnesota's Sam Darnold is capitalizing on his opportunity, leading the Vikings to a 3-0 start in the absence of the rookie JJ McCarthy, who is out with a torn meniscus in his right knee. Similarly, the Packers' Malik Willis has stepped up, guiding the team to two victories after Jordan Love's knee injury.
The trend underscores the importance of developing competent backup quarterbacks in the NFL. Last year saw 66 quarterbacks start games for the league's 32 teams, emphasizing the need for depth at the position. The Dolphins face uncertainty as Tagovailoa will miss at least three more games due to concussion protocol, leaving backups Tim Boyle or Tyler Huntley in potentially critical roles.
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This wave of backup quarterbacks stepping into starting roles brings to mind the recent success of Brock Purdy with the San Francisco 49ers last season. The situation stresses the ongoing importance of readiness and depth within NFL rosters. (This story was generated by Newser's AI chatbot. Source: the AP)
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