So the regular season is winding down, and I, as I type this, am smack in the middle of a fantasy championship game—but that doesn't mean it's too early to start the year-end wrap-up. (I’m down 16 points, by the way, and I have Tony Romo going against his Martin Gramatica. It’s going to be very close.)
Anyway, first up for review: quarterbacks. 2006 has been a surprising year for young signal callers, with lots of new names finding their way into the headlines. Too many to keep track of, you say? Relax; here's an early cheat-sheet for the 2007 draft:
Newcomers with Value
Vince Young
Takes over the starting QB job (seriously, who thought that Kerry Collins would tank so badly?) and, after a few "growing pains," improves with every start. Think a thicker version of Michael Vick. If Tennessee had ANY semblance of a receiving corps (Drew Bennett is just one man!), Vince would be one of the top quarterbacks in the league next season. As it stands, he’s got the starting job all to himself...and a whole lot of potential.
Tony Romo
Man, it sure sucks to be Drew Bledsoe these days; I think teams are going to start picking him up just so that guy on their bench turns into a superstar (Tom Brady, anyone?). Romo has been a stud in Dallas—and those of you needing a quarterback in the second half of the season found a new best friend. Look for Tony to go for about two TDs and a pick in most games next year.
Jay Cutler
Jake Plummer, what happened? After the Snake was put on life support, the Broncos went all-Cutler in the second half, and the youngster showed signs of promise. Cutler doesn’t get many downfield yards (partially because of the way the Denver D allows the offense to control the clock), but he does get the ball in the red zone. If you're thinking that ought to be good for at least a few blowouts in 2007, you’re probably right. (Although Rod Smith is STILL a bust. Damn it).
Jason Campbell
Next up in the “I-Lost-My-Job” sweepstakes is Mark Brunell, who was nothing short of awful at times in 2006. Campbell, on the other hand, got back to the bread-and-butter of the Washington offense: hitting Chris Cooley at least four times a game. Look for Campbell to really stand out in 2007, especially if the 'Skins bring in another receiver to take some heat off of Santana Moss.
Matt Leinart
Kurt Warner is going back to bagging groceries. Leinart took over for old Slick Hands and proceeded to rack up plenty of passing yards but not many TDs...which isn't entirely his fault, given that Edgerrin James forgot how to run until a few weeks ago—but still it presents a looming issue. Look for the Cardinals to emphasize their short passing game next year, with more than enough balls to go around for Boldin, Fitzgerald, and even the Edge himself. How many times they actually get into the end zone, however, remains to be seen.
David Garrard
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