2012 NFL Free Agents: Analyzing Veteran QBs That Deserve Another Chance

We know Peyton Manning will eventually get signed and the San Francisco 49ers appear to be remaining loyal to Alex Smith.

So, what does that leave the rest of the franchises needing a quarterback who don't have a shot at drafting Andrew Luck or Robert Griffin III? Well, there are plenty of veterans expected to be available, but only a few deserve another chance.

David Garrard

Much like Manning, David Garrard missed the entire 2011 season due to injury. Now, obviously Garrard isn't Manning, but he can still play a solid game at quarterback.

Despite being 34 years old, Garrard didn't begin to consistently and significantly contribute until his fifth season in the league (2006). So, the man has a few years longer left in the tank courtesy of a late start.

And he has proven to be legit, especially with his numbers of a 62.44 completion percentage, 81 touchdowns to 50 picks and 11 rushing touchdowns from 2006-2010. Not to mention that Garrard also had a rating of 87.74 during that span.

With his mobility, strong arm and reliable accuracy, Garrard will only be healthier in 2012 and ready to make a big impact.

Jason Campbell

In 2011, Jason Campbell was off to a good start, with six touchdowns to four picks and over 1,100 passing yards through five games. The Raiders were 3-2 heading into Week 6 against Cleveland, but Campbell was injured before halftime.

It was an unfortunate end to such a solid beginning, because Campbell was coming off three seasons (2007-2009) where he combined for over 9,200 passing yards, had 46 touchdowns to 29 picks and an average rating of just over 85.0.

Campbell was beginning to really develop as a true pocket passer, but there's no reason for him to remain in Oakland as Carson Palmer's backup. Therefore, provided that he has recovered quite well, Campbell won't be on the market long after Manning.

Give him a decent rushing attack and offensive line and Campbell will produce better than expected.

Kyle Orton

He is certainly not an appealing quarterback as he does lack arm strength and mobility. What Orton does provide, though, is a good pre-snap read and solid accuracy on intermediate routes.

Before Tebowmania took over in 2011, Orton had two really impressive seasons with the Broncos in 2009 and 2010. In 29 games, Orton threw for almost 7,500 yards, had 41 touchdowns to 21 interceptions and a rating of 87.15.

Interestingly enough, Orton was under center for the Kansas City Chiefs in 2011 after leaving Denver and had two big wins over the Green Bay Packers and his former team, the Broncos.

An offense that has a consitent ground game is where Orton will benefit the most. Provide him with quick, explosive receivers with good top speed over the middle and the man can work the field quite well. 

John Rozum on Twitter.