The 2011 Quarterback Market

The 2011 quarterback market will get interesting when the lockout ends and transactions are allowed. Vince Young and Donovan McNabb will breathe life into unrestricted free agency, while Kevin Kolb, Kyle Orton, and possibly Carson Palmer will become attractive trade targets.

Until then, we can only speculate about the future. The Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals is in no hurry to rule on the validity of its temporary stay of the lockout injunction. In the meantime, Chris Wesseling and I will be rolling out position-by-position market analysis.

These will be the most thorough position breakdowns on the internet. We'll touch on every sort of availability, from free agents of all kinds to trade targets and candidates for release.

Let's start with quarterbacks certain to be available after the transactions freeze.

Surefire Quarterback Free Agents

1. Matt Hasselbeck, Seahawks

Scouting Report: Hasselbeck, going on age 36, has spent his entire career in West Coast offenses. Leading Seattle's surprising playoff run helped his stock, but this is a player in decline. Hasselbeck hasn't thrown more touchdowns than interceptions or played 16 games since 2007. He's 12-24 in his last 36 starts, averaging 6.34 yards per attempt with a 58.3 completion rate. Reduced arm strength has made him increasingly turnover prone. Hasselbeck is still a natural leader around whom teammates rally. He'd be a fine stopgap for teams that don't plan to contend.

Availability: Seattle made a half-hearted attempt to re-sign Hasselbeck before the lockout. Offensive coordinator Darrell Bevell recently reached out to the former three-time Pro Bowler, but ultimately the Seahawks have shown no urgency to re-sign Hasselbeck. He could be a fall-back plan in Arizona if the Cardinals don't land Kolb or Orton. Another option is Tennessee, where Hasselbeck has ties to GM Mike Reinfeldt and could serve as a bridge to No. 8 overall pick Jake Locker.

Prediction: Titans on a two-year, $9 million contract.

2. Marc Bulger, Ravens

Scouting Report: Bulger didn't play a regular season snap as Joe Flacco's backup in 2010, but was competent in the preseason, completing 21-of-32 throws (65.6%) with a 7.5 YPA. Some reports out of Baltimore claimed he was sharper than Flacco in practices. Bulger has played in vertical offenses for Mike Martz, Scott Linehan, and Cam Cameron. In Bulger's last two seasons as a starter, he combined for 22 touchdowns, 28 interceptions, a 6.25 YPA, and 75 sacks taken with a 4-23 record. Bulger looked shell shocked before holding the clipboard last year. Perhaps a season off from taking hits has rejuvenated Bulger's body. But that's not something we'd bet on.

Availability: Even after the draft, the NFL is so quarterback needy that Bulger could find a legitimate chance to start. (If he wants it, and we have our doubts.) He's been heavily linked to Arizona, and recent reports suggest the Redskins could join the bidding. If Bulger is signed to be a starter, he seems unlikely to excel without a top-ten pass blocking line. No halfway competitive teams will view him as more than a backup.

Prediction: Cardinals on a three-year, $9 million backup's contract.

3. Alex Smith, 49ers

Scouting Report: Smith was the No. 1 pick in the 2005 draft, but his downfall is directly attributable to middle-round talent. He has average arm strength, has been injury prone, is easily rattled, and his accuracy hasn't improved since his Utah days. Smith is not an aggressive football player. Though intelligent, Smith is not a quick thinker on the field and prefers check downs to vertical strikes. He is moderately athletic and has played in every type of offense imaginable.

Availability: 49ers coach Jim Harbaugh has given Smith a playbook, showing the utmost confidence that he'll return to open the season as the starter in San Francisco. He won't be on a long rope, however, after Harbaugh traded up to draft Colin Kaepernick with the 36th overall pick.

Prediction: 49ers on a two-year, $7 million contract.

4. Tarvaris Jackson, Vikings

Scouting Report: Jackson has plenty of arm strength and is a positive-yardage running threat, averaging 4.5 yards per carry in his career. His talent is undeniable. Jackson is highly inconsistent, however, and tends to buckle under pressure, both of the defensive and big-game variety. In six combined prime-time and playoff starts, Jackson is 99-of-190 (52.1%) for 979 yards (5.15 YPA), two touchdowns, and nine interceptions with a 1-5 record. He is an extremely erratic thrower. Unless you're Brad Childress, Jackson is no one's idea of a starting quarterback.

Availability: The Vikings showed Jackson the door by failing to tender him as a restricted free agent. Childress is out of the league, but top lieutenant Darrell Bevell has resurfaced as the Seahawks' offensive coordinator. Jackson is also familiar with Andy Reid's Philadelphia offense. The Eagles are expected to trade Kevin Kolb, leaving only Mike Kafka behind Michael Vick.

Prediction: Eagles on a one-year, $2 million contract.

5. Bruce Gradkowski, Raiders

Scouting Report: He's essentially Jeff Garcia. An undersized scrambler, Gradkowski ran a 4.5-flat at his 2006 Pro Day and has averaged 4.2 yards per rushing attempt in his career. While Gradkowski's arm strength and per-attempt passing stats are thoroughly unimpressive, he has shown the ability to move an offense for short stretches, mostly with improvisation. The 28-year-old has played primarily in West Coast-style offenses. While he's a bottom-barrel No. 2 quarterback, Gradkowski can provide a spark and would probably be one of the better No. 3s in the league.

Availability: The Raiders moved on from Gradkowski after axing his biggest fan, former head coach Tom Cable. Not receiving a tender, Gradkowski could resurface as a backup with Cable in Seattle. Because of his limited arm talent, Gradkowski is a quarterback who must be manipulated by the offense he plays in. A horizontal passing attack would suit his skills best.

Prediction: Seahawks on a one-year, $850,000 contract.

The 2011 quarterback market will get interesting when the lockout ends and transactions are allowed. Vince Young and Donovan McNabb will breathe life into unrestricted free agency, while Kevin Kolb, Kyle Orton, and possibly Carson Palmer will become attractive trade targets.

Until then, we can only speculate about the future. The Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals is in no hurry to rule on the validity of its temporary stay of the lockout injunction. In the meantime, Chris Wesseling and I will be rolling out position-by-position market analysis.

These will be the most thorough position breakdowns on the internet. We'll touch on every sort of availability, from free agents of all kinds to trade targets and candidates for release.

Let's start with quarterbacks certain to be available after the transactions freeze.

Surefire Quarterback Free Agents

1. Matt Hasselbeck, Seahawks

Scouting Report: Hasselbeck, going on age 36, has spent his entire career in West Coast offenses. Leading Seattle's surprising playoff run helped his stock, but this is a player in decline. Hasselbeck hasn't thrown more touchdowns than interceptions or played 16 games since 2007. He's 12-24 in his last 36 starts, averaging 6.34 yards per attempt with a 58.3 completion rate. Reduced arm strength has made him increasingly turnover prone. Hasselbeck is still a natural leader around whom teammates rally. He'd be a fine stopgap for teams that don't plan to contend.

Availability: Seattle made a half-hearted attempt to re-sign Hasselbeck before the lockout. Offensive coordinator Darrell Bevell recently reached out to the former three-time Pro Bowler, but ultimately the Seahawks have shown no urgency to re-sign Hasselbeck. He could be a fall-back plan in Arizona if the Cardinals don't land Kolb or Orton. Another option is Tennessee, where Hasselbeck has ties to GM Mike Reinfeldt and could serve as a bridge to No. 8 overall pick Jake Locker.

Prediction: Titans on a two-year, $9 million contract.

2. Marc Bulger, Ravens

Scouting Report: Bulger didn't play a regular season snap as Joe Flacco's backup in 2010, but was competent in the preseason, completing 21-of-32 throws (65.6%) with a 7.5 YPA. Some reports out of Baltimore claimed he was sharper than Flacco in practices. Bulger has played in vertical offenses for Mike Martz, Scott Linehan, and Cam Cameron. In Bulger's last two seasons as a starter, he combined for 22 touchdowns, 28 interceptions, a 6.25 YPA, and 75 sacks taken with a 4-23 record. Bulger looked shell shocked before holding the clipboard last year. Perhaps a season off from taking hits has rejuvenated Bulger's body. But that's not something we'd bet on.

Availability: Even after the draft, the NFL is so quarterback needy that Bulger could find a legitimate chance to start. (If he wants it, and we have our doubts.) He's been heavily linked to Arizona, and recent reports suggest the Redskins could join the bidding. If Bulger is signed to be a starter, he seems unlikely to excel without a top-ten pass blocking line. No halfway competitive teams will view him as more than a backup.

Prediction: Cardinals on a three-year, $9 million backup's contract.

3. Alex Smith, 49ers

Scouting Report: Smith was the No. 1 pick in the 2005 draft, but his downfall is directly attributable to middle-round talent. He has average arm strength, has been injury prone, is easily rattled, and his accuracy hasn't improved since his Utah days. Smith is not an aggressive football player. Though intelligent, Smith is not a quick thinker on the field and prefers check downs to vertical strikes. He is moderately athletic and has played in every type of offense imaginable.

Availability: 49ers coach Jim Harbaugh has given Smith a playbook, showing the utmost confidence that he'll return to open the season as the starter in San Francisco. He won't be on a long rope, however, after Harbaugh traded up to draft Colin Kaepernick with the 36th overall pick.

Prediction: 49ers on a two-year, $7 million contract.

4. Tarvaris Jackson, Vikings

Scouting Report: Jackson has plenty of arm strength and is a positive-yardage running threat, averaging 4.5 yards per carry in his career. His talent is undeniable. Jackson is highly inconsistent, however, and tends to buckle under pressure, both of the defensive and big-game variety. In six combined prime-time and playoff starts, Jackson is 99-of-190 (52.1%) for 979 yards (5.15 YPA), two touchdowns, and nine interceptions with a 1-5 record. He is an extremely erratic thrower. Unless you're Brad Childress, Jackson is no one's idea of a starting quarterback.

Availability: The Vikings showed Jackson the door by failing to tender him as a restricted free agent. Childress is out of the league, but top lieutenant Darrell Bevell has resurfaced as the Seahawks' offensive coordinator. Jackson is also familiar with Andy Reid's Philadelphia offense. The Eagles are expected to trade Kevin Kolb, leaving only Mike Kafka behind Michael Vick.

Prediction: Eagles on a one-year, $2 million contract.

5. Bruce Gradkowski, Raiders

Scouting Report: He's essentially Jeff Garcia. An undersized scrambler, Gradkowski ran a 4.5-flat at his 2006 Pro Day and has averaged 4.2 yards per rushing attempt in his career. While Gradkowski's arm strength and per-attempt passing stats are thoroughly unimpressive, he has shown the ability to move an offense for short stretches, mostly with improvisation. The 28-year-old has played primarily in West Coast-style offenses. While he's a bottom-barrel No. 2 quarterback, Gradkowski can provide a spark and would probably be one of the better No. 3s in the league.

Availability: The Raiders moved on from Gradkowski after axing his biggest fan, former head coach Tom Cable. Not receiving a tender, Gradkowski could resurface as a backup with Cable in Seattle. Because of his limited arm talent, Gradkowski is a quarterback who must be manipulated by the offense he plays in. A horizontal passing attack would suit his skills best.

Prediction: Seahawks on a one-year, $850,000 contract.



6. Billy Volek, Chargers

Scouting Report: Volek has spent the last four years backing up Philip Rivers, and Rivers hasn't missed a start. The 35-year-old has been shaky in preseasons, two years ago completing 70.7 percent of his passes with three touchdowns and no interceptions, but last year regressing to a 0:4 TD-to-INT ratio and 50.7 completion rate. Volek is a frail-looking quarterback in decline. He's hit the market before, and either no NFL teams had interest in giving him a chance to start, or Volek was just satisfied with backup jobs. He'd be a very poor bet to last more than eight starts.

Availability: The Chargers didn't draft a quarterback, so they may be hoping that Volek will return behind Rivers. Position coaches under whom Volek has worked include Rob Chudzinski (current Panthers offensive coordinator) and Cam Cameron (Ravens offensive coordinator).

Prediction: Ravens on a two-year, $3.5 million contract.

7. Rex Grossman, Redskins

Scouting Report: Grossman has plenty of athleticism and arm strength, but is one of the worst decision-making quarterbacks of our generation. Wildly erratic, the former first-round pick has completed 54.2 percent of his career passes and never topped the 56.0 mark in an individual season. Grossman recorded a 29 on the Wonderlic before the 2003 draft, but his play can be more indicative of a single-digit score. His performances are incredibly unpredictable. One week, Grossman will look like a serviceable NFL starter. He will cost his team a game in the next.

Availability: The Shanahans were itching to play Grossman over Donovan McNabb last year, and play-caller Kyle has an obvious affinity for the onetime Super Bowl starter. The Bengals have also been linked to Grossman, but Washington offers his best path to play time, in addition to coaching staff support. He could conceivably end up battling John Beck for the starting job.

Prediction: Redskins on a one-year, $1.5 million contract.

8. Troy Smith, 49ers

Scouting Report: Smith developed a malcontent reputation in Baltimore after falling behind Joe Flacco and Marc Bulger. The Ravens waived him at final cuts, and Smith signed with San Francisco two days later. The 2006 Heisman winner experienced his first meaningful playing time under Mike Singletary, going 3-3 in six starts with six touchdowns (five pass, one rush) and a rock-solid 8.1 yards-per-attempt average. Smith has impressive arm power for a smallish passer (6'0/215) and is not afraid to throw downfield. He struggled with ball security (six fumbles, four INTs) and accuracy (50.3 completions), however, and lost the job to Alex Smith at season's end.

Availability: We suspect there is a feeling around the league that Smith thinks he's better than he is because of how he complained his way out of a respected organization like the Ravens. But he put enough on film in 2010 to warrant a contract. The 49ers did not tender Smith, and he could catch on with a team that runs a vertical offense as a possible No. 2 quarterback. He has history with Raiders coach Hue Jackson, who was Smith's position coach in 2008 and 2009.

Prediction: Raiders on a one-year, $850,000 contract.

9. Kerry Collins, Titans

Scouting Report: Collins, 38, has 28 starts over the past three seasons, completing 57.3 percent of his passes with a 6.30 YPA average. His TD-to-INT ratio is 32:25. The numbers look serviceable, but keep in mind that Collins was protected by one of the NFL's top running games. Ultimately, Collins is a game-manager quarterback with scant athleticism, mediocre accuracy, and very few years left ahead of him. While Collins still has arm strength to make all of the throws, he is a deliberate-moving pocket passer who requires top-notch pass blocking to move an offense.

Availability: He should be viewed as a last-ditch option behind Jake Locker in Tennessee, and even teams desperate for an extremely short-term stopgap ought to aim higher. Collins is best suited for a clear backup role in an offense that requires no movement skills at quarterback.

Prediction: Chargers on a one-year, $1 million contract.

10. Trent Edwards, Jaguars

Scouting Report: Perhaps the most injury-prone QB in football, Edwards has suffered an ailment of some sort every season since his senior year in high school. He has a mild case of Compartment Syndrome that causes tissue swelling and prevents proper blood-muscle flow for healing. Edwards has an adequate arm and athleticism, but poor pocket presence (possibly due to his injury history) and is only comfortable checking down to backs and underneath targets. In 33 career starts, the 27-year-old is 14-19 with a 60.5 completion rate but a 26:30 TD-to-INT ratio.

Availability: The Jaguars didn't tender Edwards before the March 3 deadline, effectively washing their hands of last year's in-season waiver pickup from Buffalo. It's worth noting that the Jets also put in a waiver claim last September, but Jacksonville "won out" because of its worse record. Also notable: 2010 Jaguars QBs coach Mike Shula now holds the same role in Carolina.

Prediction: Panthers on a two-year, $3.5 million contract.

Other surefire free agent quarterbacks: Nate Davis, Chad Pennington, Brian Brohm, Jim Sorgi, Chris Simms, Charlie Frye, Patrick Ramsey, Josh McCown.

Three- to Five-Year Restricted Free Agents

1. Dennis Dixon, Steelers

Scouting Report: Dixon's 2010 season ended with a torn left meniscus, the same knee in which he tore his ACL as a college senior. While the latest injury necessitated only arthroscopic surgery, multiple operations on the same knee is a long-term concern. When healthy, Dixon has shown the ability to win camp battles over established veterans (Byron Leftwich, Charlie Batch), and move an offense with his legs (5.6 career yards per carry). Though still a work in progress as a passer, Dixon is 2-1 in three career starts, including a Week 1 win over Atlanta last year and a 20-17 loss in Baltimore the season prior. He's got moxie, and seems to be a contagious leader.

Availability: A three-year vet, Dixon is a restricted free agent regardless of a new CBA. He received a tender before March 3, although the level is unclear. Even if it was of the "original pick" variety -- Dixon was a fifth-round choice in 2008 -- NFL teams may hesitate to surrender substantial compensation for a quarterback with two year-ending injuries to the same knee in four seasons.

Prediction: Steelers on his one-year restricted tender.

2. Tyler Thigpen, Dolphins

Scouting Report: Thigpen's downfall has not been related to talent or confidence. He plays with a gunslinger mentality, is a positive-yards run threat, and can make NFL throws. Thigpen has been unable to grasp a pro-style offense after playing in Coastal Carolina's Pistol Spread, and struggled mightily off the bench last year in Miami, completing 53.2 percent of his passes with two touchdowns, two picks, a fumble, and eight sacks taken in five appearances. The Dolphins were shut out in Thigpen's only start. He remains an interesting, if developmental project at age 27.

Availability: The Fins extended Thigpen a second-round tender, the validity of which hinges on the labor situation. Thigpen has enjoyed his lone NFL success in a Chan Gailey offense, which incorporates Pistol concepts and lots of shotgun. Ryan Fitzpatrick needs a backup in Buffalo, so it makes sense that Thigpen would be a strong option there should his free agency be unrestricted, or the Fins be interested in trading him. They'd be smart to, seeing as Thigpen isn't their future.

Prediction: Bills via trade or signing.



3. Caleb Hanie, Bears

Scouting Report: Hanie became a national name in the NFC Championship, but he was already well known to Bears fans for his impressive preseasons. In three years of exhibition games, Hanie has completed 70-of-116 passes (60.3%) for 843 yards (7.27 YPA), and a 6:4 TD-to-INT ratio. He's chipped in 5.2 yards per rush. A sleeper favorite of ESPN's Mel Kiper after the 2008 draft, Hanie is athletic and strong-armed with a quick release. He has a reputation for forcing passes into coverage, which was evident against the Packers but hasn't been in the preseason.

Availability: Hanie is a restricted free agent with three accrued years, meaning he won't be unrestricted regardless of a new CBA. But he may still be available. The Bears only gave Hanie an original pick tender, so interested teams could sign him to an offer sheet without having to cough up any compensation. Fifth-round pick Nate Enderle is Mike Martz's new developmental passer.

Prediction: Bears on his one-year restricted tender.

4. Matt Leinart, Texans

Scouting Report: QB prospects eligible for the draft are often criticized for exhibiting a "sense of entitlement." It's a perfect description for Leinart. Even after losing his starting job to Derek Anderson last fall, then failing to unseat Dan Orlovsky for the No. 2 spot on Houston's depth chart, Leinart has campaigned loudly for a starting job this spring, claiming he's "paid his dues." In Leinart's best case scenario, he'll be given a chance to compete for a backup job. The former top-ten pick holds a career 14:20 TD-to-INT ratio, 6.5 YPA, and 57.1 completion rate. He plays with no sense of urgency, lacks athleticism, and his throwing velocity is not starting-caliber.

Availability: The Texans extended Leinart an original pick tender in February, but drafted T.J. Yates to sit behind Matt Schaub and Orlovsky. Yates will cost far less than Leinart's $1.2-1.3 million tender, so it will probably be rescinded after the lockout. Leinart would then become an unrestricted free agent. Old college coach Pete Carroll's team is a connectable dot, but it's telling that the Seahawks showed no interest in Leinart last September. Only Houston and Oakland did.

Prediction: Raiders on a one-year, $1 million contract.

5. Brodie Croyle, Chiefs

Scouting Report: The 85th pick in the 2006 draft, Croyle's career has been marred by injuries, inaccuracy, and a total lack of success. He's winless in 10 starts with eight touchdowns, nine interceptions, and five fumbles. Croyle has completed just 56.7 percent of his passes with a 5.2 YPA. Though strong armed and fairly athletic, Croyle is exceptionally prone to knuckleheaded errors. In his lone start last year, Croyle completed 7-of-17 passes for 40 yards in a 31-0 loss.

Availability: Whether Croyle was tendered before March 3 isn't totally clear, but it's believed he did receive an "original pick" designation. Still, he's on notice after the Chiefs drafted Ricky Stanzi in the fifth round. Croyle's offensive coordinator in Kansas City was current Bills coach Chan Gailey, although Gailey's offense was far more productive with Tyler Thigpen than Croyle.

Prediction: Vikings on a one-year, $850,000 contract.

Other three- to five-year restricted quarterbacks: Drew Stanton, Kellen Clemens, Matt Moore, Jordan Palmer.

Trade Candidates

1. Kevin Kolb, Eagles

Scouting Report: Not yet 27, Kolb has spent his first four NFL seasons as a backup, but it's not a role he's been effective in. In six career appearances off the bench, he's completed 57.5 percent of his passes for 368 yards (4.6 YPA) and a 1:5 TD-to-INT ratio. By comparison, Kolb is a 59.5 percent passer with a YPA that jumps to 6.61 with eight touchdowns (one rush) and eight picks in six starts. Kolb has adequate arm strength, athleticism, and size (6'3/218). He's been a far more aggressive quarterback with a full week to prepare as a starter. To acquire, Kolb will cost valuable pick and/or player compensation, in addition to a pricey new deal. He's in a contract year.

Availability: Despite their inability to move Kolb during the draft due to lockout rules, the Eagles must trade him now because Kolb's contract is up after this season. Kolb will be a starter in 2011, probably with the Cardinals or Seahawks. Philadelphia is expected to demand a 2012 first-round pick and a starter on defense, which from Arizona could be someone like cornerback Greg Toler or from the Seahawks defensive tackle Brandon Mebane in a sign-and-trade deal.

Prediction: Cardinals via trade.

2. Kyle Orton, Broncos

Scouting Report: Orton is 32-29 lifetime going on age 29. He is an excellent decision maker (71:48 TD-to-INT ratio), though that sometimes comes at the expense of aggressiveness. Orton is a heady player with a strong arm, but not athletic (5.09 forty time) and can be subject to late-season fades. In his first 11 games over the last three years, Orton has completed 61.6 percent of his passes with a 7.35 YPA, 45:19 TD-to-INT ratio, and 16-15 record. The rest of the way, his completion rate falls to 56.9 with an ugly 5.97 YPA, 14 touchdowns, 14 picks, four wins, and seven losses. Still, Orton has shown that he can be a top-15 NFL quarterback at 100 percent.

Availability: During the draft, VP of Player Personnel John Elway strongly indicated that the Broncos want Tim Tebow to be their Week 1 starter. That makes Orton an $8.88 million projected backup, who's also in a contract year. The Broncos need to trade him now. Orton has played in several different offenses, from vertical schemes under Ron Turner to a passer-friendly shotgun attack for Josh McDaniels. Orton should be available for a third- to fourth-round pick.

Prediction: Dolphins via trade.



3. Carson Palmer, Bengals

Scouting Report: Palmer is a different player than the quarterback who came out of USC in 2003. The 31-year-old's mobility has been all but eliminated since a 2006 ACL and MCL tear with meniscus damage, and Palmer's arm strength was adversely affected by ligament and tendon tears in his right (throwing) elbow in 2008. Palmer's passes tend to flutter, especially in the intermediate to deep range. He's had two winning seasons in his career. Palmer's talent is now more that of a top-20 quarterback than top-10, and ideally he would be protected by a top-notch line plus running game. He has four years and $54.5 million left on a contract signed in 2005.

Availability: Depends on who you ask. If it's Bengals owner Mike Brown -- a reliable source -- Palmer isn't going anywhere. Bengals coach Marvin Lewis and most league observers believe Palmer will sit out the 2011 season after threatening to retire if his trade demand isn't honored. We'll optimistically project Palmer to get his wish and land with old college coach Pete Carroll. It's probably in Cincinnati's best interest, too, as they could acquire an early- to mid-round pick in exchange.

Prediction: Seahawks via trade.

4. Matt Flynn, Packers

Scouting Report: Flynn was essentially Colt McCoy coming out of LSU: Weak arm, fairly athletic, and a "winner." He's started one NFL game, completing 64.9 percent of 37 attempts for 251 yards, three scores, and a pick in last year's 31-27 Week 15 loss to New England. In that game, Flynn displayed impressive poise and accuracy. In three preseasons, Flynn has gone 83-of-135 (61.5%) for 855 yards (6.33 YPA), five touchdowns, and two interceptions. He's got limited tools, but we suspect Flynn would be a better starter than at least a few teams have in place.

Availability: Flynn is due $555,000 in the last year of his deal. The Packers need to either sign him to an affordable extension or trade Flynn while they still can. Flynn has shown that he can keep Green Bay competitive if Aaron Rodgers misses time, so GM Ted Thompson probably prefers the former. Still, he may be hard pressed to turn down a third-round pick if offered.

Prediction: Stays with Packers.

5. Brian Hoyer, Patriots

Scouting Report: Undrafted out of Michigan State in 2009, Hoyer was a middle of the road college quarterback before landing in Foxboro and handily beating out the likes of Matt Gutierrez, Andrew Walter, Kevin O'Connell, and Jonathan Crompton to be Tom Brady's top backup. Hoyer has drawn impressive reviews in practice. In preseason games, he's completed 61-of-101 passes (60.4%) with a sterling 8.17 YPA and 4:1 TD-to-INT ratio. Hoyer threw a 42-yard touchdown missile to Brandon Tate toward the end of the Patriots' Week 17 win over the Dolphins last year.

Availability: Hoyer was included on this list because he's been the subject of some trade buzz, but we aren't buying it. The Pats have him under control through 2012 with a $480,000 base salary this year and restricted free agency next year. While aggressive coach Bill Belichick is always willing to listen to trade offers, we wouldn't look for Hoyer to be dealt before next spring.

Prediction: Stays with Patriots.

More Quarterback Trade Candidates: Jon Kitna, Josh Johnson, Jimmy Clausen.


Release Candidates

1. Vince Young, Titans

Scouting Report: Young's ability to move an offense and win games is not in doubt. He's 30-17 lifetime, only 28 years old, and has rare mobility at the position. Young is a game-breaking athlete with a 20:10 TD-to-INT ratio as a passer over the last two seasons, superb 7.55 YPA, and yards-per-carry average of over 5.0. Mental toughness is not V.Y.'s strong suit, however, and he let his team down last year by admonishing Jeff Fisher in the locker room after a Week 11 loss. This led to a permanent benching, and arguably his coach's ouster in Tennessee. Perhaps a change of scenery is the answer for Young. The Titans have already drafted his replacement.

Availability: Young is due $12.75 million in 2011, and the rest of the NFL is aware of his situation. He will be cut before a $4.25 million roster bonus comes due. At that point, V.Y. will be the top unrestricted free agent quarterback available on the open market. Redskins coach Mike Shanahan has shown an affinity for rehab projects, and his team has a glaring quarterback need.

Prediction: Released, signs with Redskins.

2. David Garrard, Jaguars

Scouting Report: Garrard proponents point to last year's 90.8 rating that ranked 13th in the NFL, besting Eli Manning, Jay Cutler, and Kyle Orton. A closer look reveals an extremely streaky game-to-game passer, who tended to beat up on lesser opponents. For instance, Garrard combined for nine touchdowns and no interceptions against the 25th, 26th, and 32nd ranked pass defenses. Garrard's physical tools are not in question, but the only thing consistent about his performances is inconsistency. He's also 33, so to expect improvement is unrealistic at this stage.

Availability: We don't think Garrard will be cut, but it became a possibility when the Jags traded up for Blaine Gabbert at the No. 10 pick. Top-ten QBs rarely ride the pine, and Garrard's $7.975 million salary is too hefty for a backup. The Jaguars also have Luke McCown in reserve. If Gabbert outplays Garrard in the preseason, Jack Del Rio will have a tough decision to make.

Prediction: Stays with Jaguars, loses job by Week 5.

3. Donovan McNabb, Redskins

Scouting Report: McNabb entered the league in 1999 as an elite running quarterback, developed under Andy Reid into a six-time Pro Bowl passer, and bottomed out on the bench in Washington last season. Now going on 35, it's reasonable to wonder if McNabb has much left. Never an especially accurate thrower, McNabb's completion rates have dipped in four straight years, and his conditioning became an issue under Mike Shanahan in D.C. McNabb is likely to enter the 2011 quarterback market without many suitors. He's never been outside a West Coast offense, is in obvious physical decline, and will be viewed as no more than a one-year stopgap.

Availability: The phony six-year contract McNabb signed last November contains a $10 million option bonus for 2011 that won't be paid by the Redskins or any other team. He will be released into unrestricted free agency once transactions are allowed. While the Vikings are rumored to have interest, we suspect they moved on from that idea after drafting Christian Ponder with the 12th overall pick. McNabb must latch on with a team running the West Coast offense.

Prediction: Released, signs with Bengals.

More Quarterback Release Candidates: Derek Anderson, Jake Delhomme, Charlie Batch, David Carr.