Cleveland Browns: Why Jake Delhomme's Release Could Put Browns in QB Market

When the Cleveland Browns released Jake Delhomme last week, the organization officially handed the offensive reigns over to Colt McCoy for the 2011-12 season. However, Cleveland also gave itself a gaping hole in the active roster that should be addressed before the team's first game in September.

Delhomme, Seneca Wallace and McCoy all saw significant playing time last season, as all three quarterbacks struggled through injury. Now that Delhomme is gone, McCoy and Wallace are left to lead the franchise with two unproven rookies rounding out the depth chart.

Jarret Brown and Troy Weatherhead will be battling for the third quarterback spot on the Browns' roster throughout the four weeks of training camp. Even though young quarterbacks need their opportunities, any typical fan would feel uneasy about either player starting a game in 2011.

As the Browns organization showed in 2010, injuries can force teams to do things that they had not previously planned on. Last season was proof of that statement as Colt McCoy was called upon to start in Week 6 after being told he would sit the entire season.

Cleveland has limited options in the free agency market if it chooses to pursue another quarterback this fall.

Marc Bulger may seem like a logical fit if the Browns can get the veteran at a reasonable price. Bulger is familiar with Pat Shurmur's offense from their time spent together with the St.Louis Rams and could also be a great teacher of the West Coast offense to McCoy and Wallace.

The bigger opportunities to acquire a quarterback seem to be in the trade market. However, do not expect the Browns to waste their time hunting for a signal caller when there are more pressing needs at other positions on the field.

The simple answer seems to be that the Browns will let Brown and Weatherhead battle for the third-string position throughout the duration of training camp. But, if McCoy or Wallace get injured early in the season, expect the Browns to make some moves behind center.

Brian Murtaugh is a Cleveland Browns featured columnist for Bleacher Report. Brian also covers the Cleveland Browns for Rant Sports.