Tough to Rank: QB Battles
One thing I've run into when starting my projections for 2008 (which obviously will change a lot this weekend) is that there are more genuine quarterback battles than usual.
Even before Matt Ryan, Brian Brohn, Joe Flacco and Chad Henne hit the scene, here are some teams where it's tough to project projected attempts.
Jets: Clemens vs. Pennington (I started thinking it's Clemens to lose, now I'm actually leaning the other way)
Dolphins: Beck vs. McCown (Beck should be the guy right now, but can't project him for more than 350 attempts)
49ers: Smith vs. Hill
Bears: Grossman vs. Orton
This wouldn't be a problem since most of these players won't get drafted, but don't forget there are "solid" starters who are anything but: Brodie Croyle, Tarvaris Jackson, JaMarcus Russell.
Then there is a host of better fantasy options whose jobs aren't exactly locked down:
Jake Delhomme
Matt Leinart/Kurt Warner
Philip Rivers (if he can't get back from ACL surgery)
Jon Kitna
Jeff Garcia
Add it all up, and there is more uncertainty than ever about who will start 16 games. That makes sense after a record-breaking year of quarterback change. It could make a decent QB2 a bigger premium than usual next year.
Comments
Don't forget the Ravens Boller/Smith battle. Even if they do draft Ryan, I'd be amazed if he's the first guy on the field come opening day.
Posted by: P | April 24, 2008 11:44 AM
If Delhomme fully recovers from surgery he could have a fantastic year.
Posted by: b roo | April 24, 2008 01:50 PM
It all depends on how Delhomme comes back from Tommy John surgery.
Posted by: Matt W. | April 24, 2008 01:58 PM
Hey guys (and Greg if you see this) what do you all think about LenDale's long term value. Rotoworld ranked him fairly low in their dynasty RB preview (right above pierre thomas at like 24)
Posted by: J | April 24, 2008 03:54 PM
It's still early, but what do people think Shaun Hill's chances of winning the "Martz" QB battle?
Can you they sit Alex Smith as the backup?
Posted by: D R | April 25, 2008 09:19 AM