Who are the backups in the Progressive commercial?
Teddy Bridgewater, Tommy DeVito and Tyler Huntley play commercial backup
(By Carmichael Phillip)
Summary
The “backups” featured in the Progressive commercial are NFL quarterbacks Teddy Bridgewater, Tommy DeVito, and Tyler Huntley. The ad cleverly plays on the idea of “backup quarterbacks” to reinforce Progressive’s insurance theme of being prepared and protected when the unexpected happens.
Who are the backups in the Progressive commercial?
The Progressive commercial prominently features Teddy Bridgewater, Tommy DeVito, and Tyler Huntley, all professional NFL quarterbacks who have spent significant portions of their careers as backup or spot-starting players. The ad humorously reframes the often-overlooked role of backup quarterbacks, positioning them as reliable, capable, and essential—much like Progressive’s insurance coverage.
By using real NFL players rather than actors, Progressive grounds the joke in authenticity. Football fans immediately recognize the names, while casual viewers still understand the premise: backups matter more than people think. The commercial leans into self-awareness, allowing the quarterbacks to poke fun at their professional reputations while still appearing confident and capable.
Why Progressive used backup quarterbacks
Progressive’s long-running marketing strategy revolves around relatability and preparedness. Backup quarterbacks are the perfect metaphor: they may not always be in the spotlight, but when they’re needed, everything depends on them.
Teddy Bridgewater, Tommy DeVito, and Tyler Huntley all symbolize resilience, readiness, and professionalism. Each has stepped into high-pressure situations with little notice—exactly the scenario Progressive wants consumers to associate with insurance coverage.
The casting also taps into sports culture humor. Fans are accustomed to debates about starters versus backups, making the concept instantly recognizable and entertaining. By leaning into this idea, Progressive reinforces its brand message without feeling preachy or overly promotional.
Acting Breakdown: how the quarterbacks perform
While none of the three men are trained actors, their performances are surprisingly effective. Teddy Bridgewater brings a calm, veteran presence, delivering lines with understated confidence. His relaxed demeanor sells the idea of reliability.
Tommy DeVito adds a touch of youthful energy and self-awareness, leaning into the humor of being underestimated. His expressions and timing suggest comfort on camera, likely aided by his growing public profile.
Tyler Huntley plays his role with quiet assurance, balancing humor with professionalism. He doesn’t overplay the joke, allowing the concept itself to carry the comedic weight.
Together, the trio succeeds because they don’t try to act “bigger” than the commercial. Their natural delivery keeps the ad grounded and believable—an essential quality in effective commercial storytelling.
Quick Facts: the Progressive backups
Quick Facts
Teddy Bridgewater
Position: Quarterback
NFL Debut: 2014
Known for: Leadership, experience, resilience
Tommy DeVito
Position: Quarterback
NFL Debut: 2023
Known for: Underdog rise, fan-favorite status
Tyler Huntley
Position: Quarterback
NFL Debut: 2020
Known for: Mobility, Pro Bowl selection
Commercial Brand: Progressive Insurance
Theme: Backup quarterbacks as dependable protection
Breaking down each quarterback’s role
Each quarterback represents a different type of “backup” experience. Teddy Bridgewater embodies the seasoned veteran—someone who has seen everything and can be trusted in any situation. His presence suggests stability and wisdom.
Tommy DeVito represents the unexpected breakout. His inclusion speaks to the idea that backups can surprise people when given the chance. Progressive uses this angle to highlight flexibility and adaptability.
Tyler Huntley bridges the gap between the two, known for stepping in seamlessly and delivering solid performances. His role emphasizes readiness and athletic versatility, reinforcing the idea that backups are not second-rate options.
Together, the trio creates a well-rounded representation of preparedness, which mirrors Progressive’s insurance philosophy.
FAQ: Progressive commercial backups
Are the quarterbacks really NFL players?
Yes. Teddy Bridgewater, Tommy DeVito, and Tyler Huntley are all active or recently active NFL quarterbacks.
Why didn’t Progressive use a famous starter quarterback?
The campaign’s humor and message rely on the concept of “backups” being overlooked yet essential, which wouldn’t work with star starters.
Do the players act as themselves?
Yes. They appear as exaggerated versions of themselves, leaning into their real-life roles as backup quarterbacks.
Is this part of a larger Progressive campaign?
Yes. Progressive frequently uses themed campaigns to reinforce preparedness and reliability.
Why the commercial resonates with audiences
The ad works because it combines sports knowledge with universal anxiety about being unprepared. Even viewers who don’t follow football understand the fear of needing a “backup” in everyday life. Progressive translates that fear into humor, using recognizable athletes to make the message stick.
The quarterbacks’ willingness to poke fun at themselves adds authenticity. Rather than feeling scripted, the ad feels playful and self-aware, which aligns well with Progressive’s established brand voice.
Authoritative External Link
For verified career information on Teddy Bridgewater, visit his official NFL player profile:
https://www.nfl.com/players/teddy-bridgewater/
FAQs
Who are the backups in the Progressive commercial?
Teddy Bridgewater, Tommy DeVito, and Tyler Huntley.
Are they actors or real athletes?
They are real NFL quarterbacks.
What is the message of the commercial?
That backups—like insurance—are essential when unexpected situations arise.
Is the Progressive commercial meant to be humorous?
Yes. The humor is central to its effectiveness and memorability.
Carmichael Phillip is a managing editor of Acting Magazine. In addition to editing, Mr. Phillip is a writer, coordinator and creative director.
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