Free Agent Quarterbacks the Jacksonville Jaguars Should Look to Sign

In a stroke of genius (sarcastic), the Jacksonville Jaguars coaching staff eluded to the possibility of bringing in a veteran quarterback to provide competition for battle-scarred rookie Blaine Gabbert.

Many Jaguars fans ask, "Where was this during the 5-11 regular season?"

Gabbert took his lumps as the team's starter in the final 14 games of the season, taking over for Luke McCown who was benched after the second game of the season where he threw four interceptions in a 32-3 loss to the New York Jets.

In an interview with the Florida Times-Union, Jaguars new offensive coordinator, Bob Bratkowski said, "“It’s always great to have a veteran quarterback around him, and I’m not sure where we’re at with that at this point.”

“But to have those other set of eyes that would help him in his development could be important. I’m sure we’ll look at that as we move forward.”

Former Jaguars owner Wayne Weaver stated that when former head coach Jack Del Rio benched McCown because of his performance, it was something "he regretted."

So with the free agency period looming—March 13—and only a few quarterbacks out there who will command major attention from clubs needing a solid starter, who does Jacksonville target in its search?

 The Jaguars had the worst offense in the league. Gabbert finished the season last in quarterback rating and the receiving corps was anything but exciting.

Here are some names that might pique some interest for the Jaguars in finding someone who can help this offense move forward.

Kyle Orton

From day one last season, I've been saying this team should look at trying to trade for Orton and then focus attention to picking up a receiver or two in either free agency or the draft.

Orton started slow in Denver, was benched in favor of that Tim Tebow guy and eventually released.

He resurfaced in Kansas City, but it is not known if he will be in the team's future plans. The Chiefs still have Matt Cassel on the roster whom Orton filled in for.

Orton has proven he is a good dependable passer with a decent arm. In the right system, he can shine.

The Jaguars should make him first on their wish list.

Jason Campbell

There are a few places Campbell could land in the offseason, but the Oakland may have been the best place for him to be a starter.

I see his skills being used in Seattle or maybe Miami or even back in Washington if both the Dolphins and Redskins miss out or pass on Robert Griffin III's talents in the NFL draft.

Campbell would be a valuable backup in this league with his command of game management. He will never "wow" you with a Marino-like arm.

But, he did show he could play last season until he broke his collarbone.

The Jaguars could bring him in. I believe he is slightly better than former starter, David Garrard.

David Garrard

Here is an interesting thought.

David Garrard was cut four days before the regular season started by a head coach who is no longer with the team and does not make the decisions for staff anymore.

Garrard had back surgery during the 2011 season and has not played since last year. And when Oakland lost Jason Campbell to a broken collarbone, it was rumored the Raiders made a pitch for him.

Garrard went on record as saying the Dolphins had contacted him, but they were not "committed to him" and he did not want to play in South Florida.

Could a new head coach, new owner and new culture bring back the highly popular signal caller?

Jake Delhomme

As odd as this sounds, Delhomme was brought in by the Houston Texans to back up TJ Yates.

And we all know Yates was sound in his NFL audition this season, but Delhomme can still play.

The former starter in Carolina who led them to a Super Bowl has been lying low as of late.

He would be a good fit for the Jaguars as an emergency starter and a mentor with the current offensive staff. He could make Gabbert a better performer and a better passer in this league.

Brett Favre

I know, I know, the joke is getting old.

But seriously, Favre is a better passer now than Gabbert could be in five seasons.

That said, it would never happen.

But think of the possibilities for media and marketing!

And if the 42-year-old gunslinger were to start for this team, fans would come out of the woodwork to see if he still had the skills of a kid on the field.

Personally, I like the idea of someone like Favre being a mentor to the youngster, but again, it would never happen.