Backup NFL QBs

[goshan]

It is interesting how the back up QB position works in the NFL and how some are able to make careers of it.

Players like Quincy, Hutch and Henson, who started for us, can't even make rosters as 2nd or 3rd string QBs (I realize teams want the 3rd string guy to be a developmental guy typically).

Yet QBs like Garrett, Tolliver, etc. were able to make career livings as backup QBs.

What prevents seemingly up and coming QBs from not being able to become career backups? Do they have less ability than other 2nd and 3rd stringers? Or since they failed as starters do they not have the mental focus to settle for the backup spot?
W

 

[ABQcowboyJR]

It is interesting how the back up QB position works in the NFL and how some are able to make careers of it.

Players like Quincy, Hutch and Henson, who started for us, can't even make rosters as 2nd or 3rd string QBs (I realize teams want the 3rd string guy to be a developmental guy typically).

Yet QBs like Garrett, Tolliver, etc. were able to make career livings as backup QBs.

What prevents seemingly up and coming QBs from not being able to become career backups? Do they have less ability than other 2nd and 3rd stringers? Or since they failed as starters do they not have the mental focus to settle for the backup spot?
W

It is simply mental toughness. The back up QB's are the guys who don't have all the talent in the world but are still winners. They are clutch guys.

 

[Tovya]

What prevents seemingly up and coming QBs from not being able to become career backups? Do they have less ability than other 2nd and 3rd stringers? Or since they failed as starters do they not have the mental focus to settle for the backup spot?
W

I think it's because a guy who can't be the regular starter is always considered expendable...

Once a guy is determined to be "un-startable" a team is always on the prowl for a new hidden talent, or the next up-and-coming guy to replace their true starter, and the natural order of things makes the #2 expendable.

Once a team gives up on you as ever being able to be #1, your exit clock starts ticking...

 

[dargonking999]

cocaine is heck of a drug