NFL Rumors: 5 Reasons Donovan McNabb Can Excel with the Minnesota Vikings

The NFL lockout has been over for barely a day and already numerous rumors are floating about.

I'd like to address a little one pertaining Donovan McNabb, perhaps you've heard of him? He could potentially head to Minnesota to replace Brett Favre.

The Minnesota quarterback situation is definitely murky as on their roster they currently have Rhett Bomar, Joe Webb and 2011 draftee Christian Ponder. While Tavaris Jackson has reportedly agreed to a deal with Seattle.

McNabb could be a good one-year stopgap measure until Ponder is ready to be a full time starter. Minnesota is an excellent setting for McNabb and there are five reasons why he could do very well there.

The Offensive Line

It's no doubt that McNabb was flushed out of the pocket far too frequently, while a member of the Washington Redskins.

The Vikings offensive line is far more accomplished, headlined by seven time Pro Bowler Steve Hutchinson.

With more protection and time to pass McNabb will see his passing stats increase next season.

The Running Game

The Washington Redskins had a very one-dimensional offense. Typically they'd rush on first down, lose a few yards and draw a penalty. McNabb frequently was required to throw from too many 2nd & long and 3rd & long situations.

The Vikings are a more run based offense, as well they should be with Adrian Peterson. Having a strong corps of running backs will take pressure off of McNabb and prevent him from facing several 3rd & long downs on a single drive.

It's Not Washington

Anywhere but here.

That should be McNabb's motto.

Washington was not a good fit, the fans, the coaching, and the team did not work for McNabb.

He needs a change of scenery and a move to the land of 10,000 lakes could be the perfect option for the Syracuse alum.

The Receiving Corps

The Redskins had one competent receiver in Santana Moss.

Given good health, the Vikings could have three this year.

Percy Harvin was not healthy most of last year but if he can overcome in 2011, Donovan McNabb could have a marquee receiving partner. Visanthe Shiancoe is a top five tight end talent in the league and Bernard Berrian is a solid veteran.

McNabb never had the kind of receiving depth the Vikings have, and could flourish this year.

The Fan Base

The Vikings have been clamoring for a franchise level quarterback for many years now. The carousel of guys under center has left fans wanting some stability.

McNabb has the talent to be that franchise quarterback. Not for a long term, but at least until Christian Ponder is ready to take the reigns. In my opinion that's at least one if not two years down the road.

McNabb, as a one or two year fill in could be very good. McNabb never thrived under pressure in Washington, but on the Vikings he wouldn't be under as much pressure to carry the team. He could do what he does best: Throw in minimal pass rush.

Fans would be pleased to have a quarterback with a real arm and McNabb would have somewhere to call home. Even if its not for too long.