It’s been a rough decade for Niners fans. The San Francisco 49ers have
not made it to the playoffs since 2002, back when Jeff Garcia was
quarterback. It seems like every year the Niners will finally make a run
for the playoffs, but the Niners have not managed to pull it together.
The 2010 Seattle Seahawks were the first team in NFL history to make it
to the playoffs with a losing record. With that being said, if the 49ers
can post a winning record in 2011, they have a shot at making the
playoffs.
The Niners made the right choice by firing head coach Mike
Singletary after being eliminated in 2010, but the next key position
that needs to be filled is quarterback. Both Troy Smith and Alex Smith
are not the answers at the quarterback position, the best choice is
to trade for a veteran or franchise quarterback. Let’s take a look at
the 3 best quarterbacks the Niners should consider. As always, Superbowl
Odds are provided by BetUS.
Donovan McNabb
Donovan McNabb is currently under contract with the Washington Redskins,
but after his down year last season, there is a good chance the
Redskins will release him to save money in the 2011 season. If he’s not
released, the Niners will probably have to give up a fourth or fifth
round pick, which is well worth it.
Some say McNabb has lost his step, but if he’s supported with a strong
offensive cast, he could thrive in the familiar West Coast offense that
Jim Harbaugh be implementing this off-season. Even the Niners players
are excited to add Donovan McNabb to the roster. In an interview on the
T.Ocho Show, tight end Vernon Davis says “Oh man – I’d love to catch
some passes from Donovan McNabb.”
Kevin Kolb
Kevin Kolb of the Philadelphia Eagles has been a popular candidate for
the Niners throughout this season. Just like McNabb, Kevin Kolb is
familiar with the West Coast offense that will be established in the off
season. At 26 years old, Kolb can be the franchise quarterback the
Niners have been looking for.
Kevin Kolb’s track record in the NFL has been very limited, playing in
the shadows of Michael Vick during the 2010 season. The lack of
experience, and high price tag make this somewhat of a gamble for the
Niners. It is rumored that the Eagles will ask for two first round picks
in exchange for Kolb, which is absurb for a player that has proved
nothing in the NFL.
Kyle Orton
Kyle Orton of the Denver Broncos is a cheaper alternative to Kevin Kolb.
Orton is couple years older than Kolb at 28, with much more NFL
experience, and a strong skill set. Although the Denver Broncos record
suffered in 2010, winning only 3 of 13 games when Orton was the
quarterback. Orton’s numbers were strong throwing for over 3,600 yards
and 20 touchdowns in just 13 games, posting a career-high 87.5 passer
rating. Orton is a solid pocket passer, similar to Peyton Manning and
Tom Brady, and not a huge threat on the run. This matches up perfectly
with the West Coast offense that will be ready for the Niners 2011
season.
The biggest concern for the Niners is that Orton’s big numbers don’t
translate to wins. Yes, he put up big numbers in the 2010 season, but
his record as quarterback was 3-10. Also, rumors have said the Broncos
are asking for a second-round pick in exchange for Orton, this is a high
price tag for a Orton.
Whether the Niners pick up McNabb as a temporary solution, or Kolb as a
franchise Quarterback, they need to make a move quick. McNabb is my #1
choice to take the Niners to the playoffs, and hopefully the Super Bowl
in 2011.
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