NFL Czar: Quarterback matchmaking

Header image for Interrobang article
Since there have not been any major developments in the NFL's labour situation, I am going to get away from the doom-and-gloom article this week and get back to football.

There are always different draft strategies, and certain positions are always at the forefront when discussing draft value. No matter how talented a defensive end or linebacker is, it will never change the fact that one position is still valued above all the rest: quarterback. I know the old adage says "defence wins championships," but that doesn't seem to be as true these days. Quarterback play has continued to get better and better, and teams that lack talent at the most important position don't fare well. Therefore, I am going to look at some teams that I feel need a quarterback, and pair them with a free agent or draft prospect.

Carolina Panthers: The Panthers hold all the cards in this year's draft. With the number one pick, they can go in multiple directions. Most people have them taking a defensive player, and sticking with Jimmy Clausen under centre; however, I think the Panthers have to look at the recent success of rookie QBs, and take Missouri's Blaine Gabbert with the number one pick. He is the most polished QB in the draft, and will instantly become a franchise player.

Buffalo Bills: Before I match the Bills up, I will state that I think Ryan Fitzpatrick will be the starter this season in Buffalo; however, I think that the Bills need to land Auburn's Cam Newton in the first round. I realize that the number three slot is likely too high for Newton, but he would be a perfect fit in Buffalo. He is a project QB, who will likely not be a starter in year one; however, the Bills need something to spark the fans' fading interest, and Newton would certainly help. After a year or two of polish, the Bills could build an offence around his talents, and become a force in the AFC once again.

Arizona Cardinals: The Cardinals are a mess at this point. Unlike the Bills and Panthers, the Cards don't have any other option at the position. David Anderson, John Skelton and several others tried (and failed) to grab the starter's gig in the desert last year, and they need a new solution. I think another young talent would be wasted at this point, so I see them targeting Philadelphia Eagle Kevin Kolb in a trade. Kolb showed he has the stuff to be an NFL starter, and paired with Larry Fitzgerald, could become a very solid starter for years to come.

Cincinnati Bengals: This of course is based on Carson Palmer following through with his threats and leaving the team. Most NFL experts have Gabbert going to Cincy, but I feel they are built as a team to win in the near future, and should target a veteran. Ex-Titan Vince Young would be a certain possibility, but his dedication was a major issue during his stay in the Music City. If given the chance, and a proper support system, I feel Young could still be an elite player.

Of course, there are more teams that require a new gunslinger, but I don't have the space (or time) to discuss them all. I suppose all of these teams could forget my advice and try to convince a certain Mississippi resident to sign, but nobody wants that.