THE YEAR OF THE QUARTERBACK
Before they even throw a ball to start the NFL season, quarterbacks have been a major topic in the sports pages this off-season. Whether it’s what will be the order of the qb’s to be chosen in the draft later in April, or what free agent quarterbacks were going to be going where it seems that these guys are in the news everyday. Add in the soap-opera-like stories surrounding three of the NFC North pivots and it’s been an interesting time leading up to the new season.
CHANGES IN THE NFC NORTH
Brett Favre says if he decides to play, the 2006 season will be his last as a Packer. He recently stated something along the lines of “ I’m watching to see if they are trying to put together a winner in Green Bay, before I decide if I’m coming back this year.” It would seem to me that if Green Bay had gone out and signed a pile of “big name” free agents, which isn’t their style, they look to build from the draft, then, Favre would have had his clue that they were short term chasing a winner. Hey Brett, you are probably looking at what this year’s team will look like; make that decision already!
Daunte Culpepper ex of the Vikings got his new team after a series of bizarre emails to the press. Who says you can’t negotiate in the media? And Detroit finally punted Joey Harrington after his never being able to get it together with the Lions. Brian Griese signing with the Bears opens up the possibility of some really good competition in the Chicago camp this year.
The NFC North Division could see all teams with new starters at qb this year although Brad Johnson did finish last year for the Vikes.
THE QUARTERBACKS IN THE DRAFT
There is a talented group of quarterbacks headed in to the draft later this month with three heading the list. Matt Leinart seems to be the #1 choice of the qb’s available, as his style seems most suited to the Pro game. Vince Young sweetened his chances with an outstanding Rose Bowl performance and Jay Cutler has impressed with his off-season workouts and has moved up considerably on some scout-sheets.
The mid tier grouping includes Charlie Whitehurst from Clemson, Brodie Croyle Alabama and Omar Jacobs who played at Bowling Green. Jacobs is considered by some to posses the skills, particularly the arm strength that should make him a successful pro. For this reason Jacobs could surprise some as to how high he is chosen in the draft.
FREE AGENT QUARTERBACK SIGNINGS
Check out this list of well known experienced free agent quarterback signings.
Drew Brees…to the Saints.
Aaron Brooks…to the Raiders.
Jeff Garcia…to the Eagles.
Josh McCown, Jon Kitna, Shaun King…to Detroit.
Mike McMahon…Vikings
Gus Frerotte…Rams
Brian Griese… Bears.
In most sports, experts will tell you if you are strong down the middle you should have a good team. In baseball if your middle infield is good and in hockey if your center-icemen and goalie are strong, chances are you’ll perform well. In hoops if you put out a good shooting strong rebounding center you will win more than your share of games. And in football the quarterback is the key person playing in the middle of your offence and this year could see a lot of new faces starting and quite a few familiar faces trying to regenerate their careers in the NFL.
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