I’m no NFL General Manger (though I’m open to the idea, Seahawks) but I’m always looking out for the well-being of my fellow Longhorns, it is in that spirit that I say the Arizona Cardinals should draft Colt McCoy.
Colt McCoy
I know, I’m a Dallas Cowboys fan and shouldn’t be looking to improve other teams, but the Cardinals are the best situation for Colt, and McCoy is the Cardinals best long-term option. Colt is the kind of quarterback that would benefit from a year or two of mentorship from an experienced QB, a-la Matt Cassel. In return, the Cardinals would get a high-percentage passer who has experience running a pass-oriented offense.
Right now Colt is the #3 or #4 QB in this year’s draft, depending on who you listen to, behind Clausen, Bradford, and Tebow, and is projected to go anywhere from late 2nd round to as late as the fourth round. The Cardinals by virtue of their playoff success will have a high round pick, McCoy will be available when their turn comes in the 2nd round.
Colt’s accuracy his last two seasons at Texas of 76.7% and 70.6% completion could translate to NFL pass completion averages in the 60s, the kind of accuracy the Cardinals will be losing upon Kurt Warner’s retirement. When that day comes Colt will be ready to take the reins of Arizona’s potent office.
What about Matt Leinart? He wasn’t stellar during his first stint as a starter, however should Warner retire early he’ll get another chance, though given Warner’s performance I doubt he’ll hang the towel, especially if Brett Favre keeps showing that a QB can still play in his 40s. Regardless, McCoy will be able to compete with Leinart for the starting role by years 2 or 3. I believe Colt is a better leader and he’s far more mobile than Matt.
Team’s will not be looking to build a team around McCoy, he doesn’t have the talent of say a Ryan Leaf or a JaMarcus Russell, but he’s the kind of QB that can learn from a veteran and take over a team. The Arizona Cardinals are Colt’s best opportunity for long term success, the league is full of young quarterbacks. Other similar teams with veteran QBs probably still have another 5 or 6 years with them (Seahawks & Colts come to mind), except the Vikings, but who knows what the heck Favre will do.
Your American Hero,
-AK
