The NFL Scouting Combine Tuesday was not about the unheralded group of quarterback prospects. It was about veterans who might or may not have moved this month.
Brian Gutekunst, Packers General Manager, said that he doesn’t yet know if Aaron Rodgers, the reigning MVP, wants to retire or return home. He hopes to get an answer soon.
Steve Keim, Cardinals General Manager, said that he will exercise the fifth-year option to Kyler Murray’s disgruntled contract.
When Nick Caserio, Texans GM, was asked about Deshaun Watson’s embattled status, he declined to answer. Watson was suspended last season after he was accused of sexual misconduct.
Caserio stated that “We’re daily in terms of handling it.” “We will always do the right thing for the Houston Texans team,” Caserio said.
Chris Ballard, Colts General Manager, indicated that he was not yet sold on former No. Carson Wentz, the 2nd overall draft pick, is the long-term solution in Indianapolis. Neither coach Arthur Smith nor Terry Fontenot would commit to Matt Ryan as the Falcons’ starting quarterback next year.
Andrew Berry, Browns General Manager, told reporters that Baker Mayfield will be the starting pitcher in Cleveland in 2022. He also expects Mayfeld to undergo offseason surgery on his non-throwing shoulder. This should help facilitate Mayfeld’s successful return.
“The truth is that we have witnessed him play at a high-level before. Berry acknowledged that the injury did have an impact on Berry’s performance. We are focused on his recovery. We are familiar with his work habits. We believe he is talented. We’ve seen him play at a level that is comparable to a playoff level, so I don’t think there is any reason for us to doubt his ability to rebound to that level next season.
Mike McCarthy, Cowboys coach, revealed Tuesday that quarterback Dak Preston had offseason shoulder surgery, but it didn’t seem to have adversely affected him last season.
The Denver Broncos have had more trouble with the center in recent seasons than any other team in the NFL. They have gone through 10 starting quarterbacks since Peyton Manning retired. Teddy Bridgewater was the most recent, going 7-7 last season, but was still the best.
Manning’s job number one is to find a suitable successor, one year after his Hall of Fame Induction. 1 for Denver GM George Paton.
Paton stated, “It’s always been a priority.” It’s the most important position within sports, so we’re always on the lookout.”
As well as almost everyone else.
Rodgers has been suggested that the Broncos could be a landing spot if he decides to leave Green Bay.
“We want the best guy. Paton stated that it doesn’t matter if the free agency is paid or not; if it’s draft, we don’t mind if it goes to a trade; it doesn’t matter if it was free agency. “We will exhaust all options to find the best player for the Broncos.
Gutekunst said that Rodgers was in “no new updates”. This led Gutekunst to speculate that the four-time MVP wasn’t ready for an 18th NFL season.
Aaron has a tough process to prepare for every season. Gutekunst stated that it’s a huge commitment and that he has done it for a long period of time. It certainly shows in his results. He feels that he must do it to be able to play at the same level as he does. That is something I can see in his eyes, but I believe he’s experiencing it now.
Gutekunst stated that he expected to hear Rodgers’ decision by March 16, when the league’s new season begins with free agency.
Ballard stated that he will continue to meet with Frank Reich, Colts coach, and Jim Irsay the team owner and hopes to make a decision on quarterback within the next 10 days.
Ballard stated, “Ultimately, you have to have a man you believe in.” While I don’t think we do, it is the best solution for us in the long-term. “We’re not there yet. I’m not there yet.”
There is also talk about Russell Wilson of Seattle wanting a fresh start. Both the Steelers (Ben Roethlisberger), and Buccaneers Tom Brady need to replace their elite quarterbacks in this offseason.
Steelers GM Kevin Colbert stated that “I would say that we’re open for any” quarterbacks. We have Mason Rudolph (Veteran) and Dwayne Hakins (Veteran). Both have played in NFL games, and both have won NFL matches. We’ll watch how things develop.”
Murray has deleted all references to Cardinals from his social media accounts. However, he isn’t losing sight of their view.
Keim stated that Kyler Murray is a person I consider to be very different than anyone else. He can do anything and is very competitive. He wants to be great. These are all his strengths.
It’s amazing to look back on the three years ago and see the incredible progress he made off the field. He’s an integral part of our turnaround.”
If Keim is able to help it, that’s a huge part of the Cardinals future.
The idea that this year’s college class isn’t as good as previous years adds to veteran signal callers’ shine.
“It will be interesting to see who blinks when it is about these quarterbacks. Daniel Jeremiah, analyst at NFL Network, said that he doesn’t know of any with a top-10 ranking.
The first prospect might not be selected by the teams if there is no premier prospect among the top QBs, such as Pitt’s Kenny Pickett and Matt Corral of Mississippi, Liberty’s Malik Willis, North Carolina’s Sam Howell. Teams will be wary of drafting a player with a higher draft grade.
Jeremiah stated, “That’s what’s tricky about this draft.” “That’s why it’s so interesting to see which teams can remove that need by going to the veteran route and trying for one in order to avoid having to skip what they believe is a better football player at another spot.”
