NFL Predictions 2011: Projecting Full Season Statistics for Kyle Orton

Kyle Orton had a decent 2010 season with the Denver Broncos, throwing for 3,653 yards and 20 touchdowns while being picked off only nine times. But after struggling late and being supplanted by rookie Tim Tebow, speculation about Orton's next landing spot has been endless.

Nobody really knows where he'll end up or if he'll even go anywhere at all. In fact, it currently looks as though he might stay with Denver.

But assuming Orton does get traded away at some point, doesn't it sound like fun to speculate on what his 2011 statistics will be?

Well, we're going to do it anyway.

Sources: ESPN.com

Landing Spots?

Before we get into Kyle Orton's statistics, let's take a look at some of the organizations where Orton might be a good fit.

First is the Washington Redskins. The 'Skins made some nice moves in free agency, but still need an answer at quarterback. Mike Shanahan cannot roll with John Beck and Rex Grossman.

Orton would be a good fit because he would hold down the starting spot and perform adequately until Washington is able to find a long-term answer. Receivers Santana Moss and Anthony Armstrong would provide decent options for Orton.

Second is the Buffalo Bills. The Bills have been looking for an answer at quarterback for quite some time, and it doesn't look like Ryan Fitzpatrick is that guy. Orton would provide a slight upgrade over Fitzpatrick and give the Bills a solid veteran to throw to Steve Johnson and Lee Evans.

In addition, Orton's weak arm might prompt him to check down to CJ Spiller quite often, making the high first-round draft pick a more justifiable selection for the Bills.

Third is the Miami Dolphins, who have former Broncos wideout Brandon Marshall. Orton and Marshall could conceivably develop a good rapport while young quarterbacks Chad Henne and Matt Moore learn behind a veteran. 

Passing Yards

Prediction: 3,700 Yards

Kyle Orton has averaged about 3,700 yards over the past couple of seasons. He had some very good receivers in Denver, but none that were so good that his numbers would significantly decrease on another team.

As long as Orton is starting in 2011, look for him to approach the 4,000 yard mark.

Passing Touchdowns

Prediction: 24 Touchdowns

While Orton did have good receivers in 2010, there weren't any who were exceptional redzone targets. Consequently, his touchdown total was just 41 over the past two seasons.

However, if he gets traded to one of those three teams, he'll have better redzone targets to work with at both receiver and tight end. If he is traded, look for this number to increase.

Rushing Yards, Touchdowns

Prediction: 70 Yards, One Touchdown

Orton isn't much of a runner, and other than averaging 4.5 yards a carry and rushing for 98 yards in 2010, he has never made much of an impact in that phase of the game.

Don't expect that to change, no matter where he goes.  

Interceptions, Passer Rating

Prediction: 14 Interceptions, 85.0-90.0 Passer Rating

When playing in a full 16-game slate, Orton's interception total has hovered right around 12 or 13. It's safe to predict that with more touchdown passes will come more interceptions, so if he's starting somewhere else in 2011, 14 might be a good expectation.

As far as passer rating goes, Orton's has gone up steadily in his career and he finished with an 87.5 passer rating in 2010. It's safe to expect a similar number in 2011.