One of the defining themes of the 2023 NFL season has undoubtedly been the instability at the quarterback position. With a staggering number of backups starting games this year, 22 to be exact, according to NFL Research, the league has been witnessing a remarkable display of resilience from these understudies. In fact, there is a very real chance that several teams with backup quarterbacks may make the playoffs and advance.

Heading into Sunday's matchups, the NFL landscape is rife with quarterback-related issues. Conversations with various sources have revealed the following breakdown of the major concerns surrounding these signal-callers.

First and foremost, veteran quarterback Joe Flacco has once again been elevated to the active roster from the practice squad. While he awaits a full-time spot on the 53-man roster, he is expected to start for the Cleveland Browns today. Dorian Thompson-Robinson, who cleared the NFL's concussion protocol this week, will be Flacco's backup, while PJ Walker has been waived.

Flacco demonstrated his worth last week against the Los Angeles Rams, showcasing his ability by completing 23 of 44 passes for 254 yards, two touchdowns, and one interception. Although the late interception proved costly in a Los Angeles victory, it will not be the deciding factor in Cleveland's quarterback decision. At 38 years old, with a playoff spot within reach, Flacco has a golden opportunity to lead the Browns to success.

Another notable quarterback situation revolves around Trevor Lawrence of the Jacksonville Jaguars. Lawrence suffered a high ankle sprain earlier this week, raising doubts about his availability for the upcoming game against the Browns. Nevertheless, his progress in terms of mobility and stability has exceeded expectations. Improving enough to participate in limited practice sessions on Thursday and Friday, Lawrence is listed as questionable for Sunday's game. Head coach Doug Pederson remains optimistic about Lawrence's chances, and the quarterback himself is determined to take the field. The final decision will be based on a Sunday morning evaluation of Lawrence's ankle, focusing on his ability to cut and pivot.

The Las Vegas Raiders also faced uncertainty regarding their starting quarterback, Derek Carr, due to a concussion. However, good news came on Friday afternoon as Carr cleared the NFL's concussion protocol, ensuring his availability for today's game. Nonetheless, Carr will be playing through pain as he also nurses a non-displaced rib cartilage fracture, in addition to an AC joint sprain in his shoulder. Despite these injuries, Carr is determined to contribute to the team's success, highlighting the sacrifices players make during this crucial time of the season.

The Seattle Seahawks, known for their consistent quarterback situation, were hit with an unexpected setback. Starter Geno Smith suffered a groin injury during Thursday's practice, leading to his absence from Friday's practice session. While Smith is eager to play, the team brought in Sean Mannion as a precautionary measure. Mannion was promptly signed to the practice squad and elevated to the active roster for Sunday's game. Smith's status remains uncertain, and Drew Lock is preparing to step in as the potential starter. Coach Pete Carroll expressed confidence in Lock's readiness should the need arise, highlighting his determination and readiness to seize the opportunity.

In a highly anticipated matchup against the San Francisco 49ers, it is possible that Drew Lock will indeed see the field as the starting quarterback. Lock has not started a game since his winless run in three starts for the Denver Broncos back in 2021. The pressure will be on for Lock to prove himself and potentially help the Seahawks secure a crucial victory.

As the regular season nears its end, the turbulent quarterback situations across the league have added another layer of excitement and unpredictability to the game. As fans eagerly await the outcomes of Sunday's matchups, the performances of these backup quarterbacks may very well shape the playoff picture and determine which teams will advance.