Former Virginia Tech QB Tyrod Taylor Snubbed in Latest NFL Backup Rankings
Tyrod Taylor has made a solid name for himself in the NFL as a dependable backup quarterback. The former Virginia Tech standout may not always grab headlines, but when called into action, he consistently delivers smart, efficient football. After a respectable 2023 season with the New York Giants, Taylor made the switch to the Jets, stepping into a backup role once again — this time behind former Chicago Bears quarterback Justin Fields.
Fields, who has struggled to live up to his first-round draft status, now has Taylor behind him as insurance. With NFL offseason debates in full swing, Sports Illustrated’s Gilberto Manzano recently released his ranking of all 32 backup quarterbacks in the league. Despite Taylor’s extensive experience and steady track record, he landed at a surprisingly low No. 18.
While these early summer rankings aren’t the end-all-be-all — especially with training camps still weeks away — Taylor’s position feels like an underappreciation of his resume. Manzano acknowledged Taylor’s strengths, noting:
“Taylor is a proven backup with ideal traits for the role. The 14-year veteran has 58 career starts and excels at protecting the football, with 68 touchdowns and only 29 interceptions. His cautious play can frustrate fans, but coaches value his ability to keep the offense on track.”
That assessment rings true. Taylor has built a career around consistency, composure, and limiting costly mistakes — all qualities coaches covet in a backup. Yet, when you look at several names ranked ahead of him, it’s hard not to argue that Taylor deserves more respect.
Given Fields’ uneven performance and the uncertainty that surrounds his future as a starter, the Jets could be relying on Taylor sooner than expected. If and when that time comes, history suggests he’ll be ready — just as he has been throughout his 14-year career.
Criticizing a backup QB ranking might seem trivial, but in a league where one injury can change everything, the value of a reliable veteran like Tyrod Taylor shouldn’t be underestimated. At the very least, his experience and efficiency should earn him a higher spot than 18th on any list.