[big ror]

Many people think some teams are a solid QB away from being a playoff contender. For instance, the Bears and the Vikings--just to name a few--would greatly appreciate some improved play from the QB position.

Well, it looks as if 2008 could be an off-season where some of those teams make the move to ameliorate those QB woes.

For instance, what happens in Philly? Donovan McNabb is much maligned, and it seems like he wants--and might even be granted--a change of scenery. With Kolb lurking in the shadows, audible mumblings are already emanating from the Windy City.

In addition, what happens over in Cleveland? A team that was desperately searching for a serviceable QB suddenly seems to stumbled blindly upon two: Derek Anderson and Brady Quinn (who looked extremely good in pre-season despite limited work in camp). Their current conundrum seems quite tantamount to the Chargers two years ago when they had to decide between Drew Brees and Philip Rivers. Knowing that GMs feel the need to play their rookies, especially the "sexy picks" they traded up for, we might see the Browns let Anderson walk in favor of Quinn at the end of the year.

The same scenario seems to be percolating in Buffalo. J.P. Losman has improved every year as a starter, but rookie Trent Edwards has shown potential and--more importantly--an intangible that coaches and GMs covet: a sense of knowing how to win. Could Losman be the next QB to walk?

These are just three interesting cases to watch, as the play of all four--McNabb, Anderson, and Losman/Edwards (depending on who gets the nod week-to-week)--down the second half of the season is going to determine the decisions the GMs make at the end of the year.

A team like the Vikings or Bears might just get another piece--or at least a better piece--to the puzzle in 2008.

[ricky]

Early entry for next year? Yes. Interesting and analytical and provocative? Definitely! Looking at your list of QB's as you addressed them:

McNabb could well be gone, as it seems likely Reid will exit the team at end of the year. Kolb will get his shot.
I can't believe Cleveland would do something as dumb as letting Anderson. Trade proven quality on the field for (questionably, in my mind) a high round pick. I think its more likely they tender a good offer to Anderson, and keep Quinn for a while, unless they get a real blockbuster deal.
Finally, I agree with you that Losman (looking more and more like a "journeyman", like Trent Green) will be gone. However, he wouldn't be a "difference maker" (as McNabb could arguably become on another team). He'd be the proverbial "just a guy at QB".
I think it most likely that the Vikings would be very aggressive on getting a QB, because they need someone to take some of the heat off their running game. Which brings up an interesting contrast- the Vikes running game sparkles, while the passing game stinks. The Packers passing game sparkles, while the running game stinks (its last in the league- you can't get any stinkier than that). Yet, which team has the better record?

[Diamonds]

McNabb grew up in Chicago.

How's that for possibility?!?

Suddenly the NFC North division is one of the stoutest in the league.

We're not the doormat division we've been the last few years.

[PackerBamer]

The Browns might like to get back into the first round of picks in 2008. They gotta be kicking themselves for that Quinn move now. They would probably take a first round pick in 2008 Draft for Anderson, and he would be worth it.

[Heatseeker]

I fully expect McNabb to be in Chicago next season...There's not a doubt in my mind..

[Skyshadow]

I fully expect McNabb to be in Chicago next season...There's not a doubt in my mind..

Good. Let's hope he keeps playing like he's been playing.

[IowaPacker]

Good. Let's hope he keeps playing like he's been playing.

I for one would be happy to see McNabb as QB for a NFCNorth team -- because I still think he's one of the most overrated QBs in the game.

He's better than Grossman or Jackson, to be sure. But I would love to see a division rival commit a big chunk of cap $$ to another just-above-mediocre quarterback.

[Heatseeker]

Good. Let's hope he keeps playing like he's been playing.

Well, the Bears already beat us with Griese at the helm, so if McNabb is in there, I might be a little worried. Then again, he could be going the way of Culpepper too.

[Heatseeker]

IMO it will be 2 years from now. They will try Kyle Orton before making a change.

I respectfully disagree.. The Bears need to get back on track as soon as they can while their defense can still play at a high level. Same goes for McNabb. Watching Monday night's game it was pretty clear, Philly is pretty much ready to move on. Personally, if I was a Bear fan, I'd be excited to get him into town.

I know he's had some huge games against the Pack, but he's one QB I really respect in this league.