Detroit Lions Weblog

QB revolving door continues…

With the anouncement of the release of Drew Bledsoe from the Buffalo Bills, here is an unofficial tally of potential Lion backup/starting QB’s:

1.Drew Brees
2. Jeff Garcia
3. Kurt Warner
4.Drew Bledsoe
5.Brian Griese
6.Brad Johnson
7. Rich Gannon
8. Drew Bledsoe
9. Matt Hasselbeck
10. Jay Fiedler
11. Kelly Holcomb
12. Jon Kitna

I also believe that Tim Couch, provided he has some good workouts could emerge as hot commodity in the offseason. Of the players on this list I immediately disqualify Brees because he would be too costly, his stock is very high right now. I would also disqualify Bledsoe because he appears to not fit well in West Coast-oriented offensive system. Jon Kitna also comes off the list because he likes being a backup to his best friend, Carson Palmer. The right opportunity would have to be out there for Kitna to move on it appears. Hasselbeck in all likelihood would only come as a starter. The same may be said for Jeff Garcia, too.

That reduces our list to:
1. Kurt Warner
2. Brian Griese-if he doesn’t remain in Tampa
3. Brad Johnson-if he doesn’t retire
4. Rich Gannon- if he doesn’t retire and is willing to be a backup.
5. Jay Fiedler
6. Kelly Holcomb

A lot of the speculation that will emerge over the Lions Qb situation will depend on their true plans for the direction of the organization. Can they afford not to make the playoffs again this year? What will happen to fan interest if they produce another 5-6 win season? How serious are the Lions about adapting their offense and finding ways to be more productive on third downs and in the “red zone”? If they make changes, who will best fit? Which player will have the most amenable contract demands? How long can they wait on the open market with the fact that they only have one QB currently under contract? Are they looking for a capable backup who could step in if needed, or are they looking for someone who would likely emerge as a replacement for Harrington?