NFL quarterback injuries: The 2025 NFL season has taken an early twist, with several teams facing the daunting prospect of relying on backup quarterbacks just three weeks into the campaign. From franchise stars dealing with foot and knee problems to rookies shelved by ankle issues, Week 3 is shaping up as a test of depth charts and coaching adjustments. The central question: which backup passers can keep their clubs competitive until the starters return?
Key Quarterback Injuries Heading Into Week 3
- Joe Burrow (Bengals) – sidelined by turf toe. His absence leaves Cincinnati turning to Jake Browning, a less-experienced option asked to steady a team with playoff ambitions.
- J.J. McCarthy (Vikings) – the rookie signal-caller is nursing a high ankle sprain expected to cost him multiple weeks. Minnesota will now look to veteran Carson Wentz to provide short-term leadership.
- Jayden Daniels (Commanders) – dealing with a knee sprain that has his status in doubt. If he cannot go, Marcus Mariota’s dual-threat skills make him the next man up.
- Justin Fields (Jets) – in concussion protocol, his availability is uncertain. Tyrod Taylor, an experienced journeyman, may be pressed into service.
- Brock Purdy (49ers) – limited by toe and shoulder issues. If he sits, former Patriot Mac Jones could guide the offense in a caretaker role.
Evaluating the Backups by Win Potential
1. Jake Browning – Cincinnati Bengals
Browning finds himself in the spotlight for a Bengals roster designed to contend. The advantage he holds is familiarity with Cincinnati’s offensive system and the luxury of elite skill players around him. While his ceiling may not match Burrow’s, a strong run game and a capable defense could allow him to manage the game and steal wins.
2. Carson Wentz – Minnesota Vikings
Wentz’s career has been a rollercoaster of highs and lows, from MVP-level flashes in Philadelphia to struggles with turnovers in later stops. Minnesota offers him another chance. With weapons like Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison, Wentz has the supporting cast to succeed, but his ability to make safe decisions will determine outcomes.
3. Marcus Mariota – Washington Commanders
If Daniels cannot play, Mariota brings mobility and improvisational ability that can keep defenses guessing. He has experience as both a starter and backup across multiple systems. Washington may simplify the game plan for him, leaning on the run and quick throws, but his versatility makes him a potential X-factor.
4. Tyrod Taylor – New York Jets
Taylor is the definition of a steady veteran presence. He rarely makes reckless mistakes and can extend plays with his legs when necessary. With the Jets built around defense and a strong backfield, Taylor doesn’t need to be spectacular—just consistent enough to avoid turnovers.
5. Mac Jones – San Francisco 49ers
Jones, once a starting quarterback for New England, could step in if Purdy sits. The 49ers’ offense, however, is built to support quarterbacks with creative play-calling, a dominant run game, and yards-after-catch specialists. That environment could help Jones look sharper than he did in his last Patriots stint.
What Gives a Backup an Edge?
The CBS Sports analysis underscores that the context around a backup often matters more than the quarterback himself. Teams with strong defenses, dynamic skill players, and adaptable coaching can survive stretches with a reserve passer. Experience also plays a role: quarterbacks like Taylor and Wentz, who have logged significant NFL snaps, may be better prepared for the moment compared to younger or less proven players.
Outlook for Week 3
Fans should expect simplified game plans, heavier reliance on rushing attacks, and conservative play-calling. The backups who succeed will be the ones who minimize mistakes, sustain drives, and lean on their teammates. While no replacement can truly replicate the star power of Burrow or Purdy, several of these fill-ins have realistic paths to stealing victories.
