Quarterbacks

By T. Love

The quarterback position is the biggest uncertainty for the Atlanta Falcons heading into the 2007-08 season. That is a bit hard to believe as there is a $130 million quarterback on the roster. With the allegations surrounding Michael Vick, his season and future with Atlanta is unknown. Assuming Vick is not suspended or takes a “volunteer” leave of absence, here is a breakdown of the quarterback situation heading into training camp.

Michael Vick (6-0, 215)

Last season, Vick established a career-high with 20 touchdown tosses but tied his season-high in interceptions with 13. Despite all of his freakish talent, Vick has yet to become an accurate passer and struggled tremendously in the hybrid west coast offense that was incorporated by Jim Mora. Bobby Petrino employs a vertical attack that works better to Vick’s strength and he could flourish in this offense. By all accounts, Vick has been putting in the extra time in the classroom and on the field this off-season. The QB will be able to audible for the first time in his career. BP requires his QBs to be around a 65% completion rate to be successful in the offense. Vick’s career percentage sits at 53.8. There is a lot of business Mr. Vick needs to take care of on and off the field.

Joey Harrington (6-4, 220)

Harrington signed with the Falcons in the offseason after a short stint with the Miami Dolphins. Originally drafted 3rd overall by the Detroit Lions in the 2002, Harrington has yet to live up to his billing. Last season, he passed for 12 touchdowns and 15 interceptions. He was brought in to Atlanta after the Matt Schaub trade to provide a veteran backup. Now with the legal troubles of Vick, Harrington might have the opportunity to resurrect his career.

D.J. Shockley (6-0, 214)

D.J. Shockley is a local product growing up in College Park, Ga., and attending North Clayton high school. Shockley attended the University of Georgia and sat patiently behind David Greene for his opportunity to lead the Bulldog Nation. With his first opportunity as a full-time starter his senior season, he led Georgia to a 10-3 record and an SEC Championship. He has received minimal experience on the professional level, but does have the arm strength and accuracy to be successful in Petrino’s offense. He will push Harrington for the starting job, but will also have to work hard to keep Chris Redman buried on the depth chart.

Chris Redman (6-3, 223)
Chris Redman has six career starts in the NFL, but played under Bobby Petrino at Louisville. Redman probably will not see the field much this season, but could be helpful with his knowledge of the offense.

Analysis
It is beyond belief that there is any debate about who the starting quarterback will be for this football team. If Vick does not go this season, one of the three will have an opportunity to shine and win the spotlight. Harrington has the best chance to take over the position, but Shockley is young, athletic and intelligent enough to succeed as well.

Position battles begin on July 26.