Garrard in, Leftwich left out
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by Andygates23
There was shocking news out of Jacksonville today when it was announced that David Garrard will be taking over the Jaguars' offense while long time starter Byron Leftwich will be either traded or released, most likely released. Is this the right move for the Jags? Head coach Jack Del Rio says he has been impressed by Garrard's improvement in the preseason, but wasn't he playing against second team defenses most of the time?
I agree Leftwich isn't a superstar quarterback but he has shown moments of brilliance. This spring he worked hard on losing weight to be less injury prone and to be more mobile, but the result of those efforts won't be seen in Jacksonville. Meanwhile, Garrard already is a mobile quarterback who does have potential, but he also has a major tendency to make mistakes in crucial games. While Leftwich was out last season it was Garrard who led the playoff charge and he was anything but impressive. The Jaguars ended up losing four of their last six games, including three straight losses to end the season, and the result was just barely missing the playoffs. In that stretch he threw 7 interceptions and was sacked 15 times.
Garrard had two games last year where he turned the ball over four times. These are mistakes that a six year pro cannot make. Yes Leftwich had his share of bad games, but no one has ever doubted his leadership skills. Does Garrard have that quality? Well with his history I question it. I find it hard to believe that Del Rio would make this huge decision based on Garrard's preseason performance only. Fans have to remember that the NFL is a business. Leftwich was in a contract year of his 5 year rookie contract and most fans know that bonuses grow each year.
If Leftwich was on the week one roster of the Jaguars the franchise would have immediately owed the quarterback a five million dollar bonus. Although that really isn't a lot when it comes to NFL money, you can bet it had an impact on the franchise's decision. I'm sure owner Wayne Weaver and Del Rio thought why pay that money when we have a similar player in Garrard who costs a lot less and has starting experience? Will the Jaguars be able to trade their former starter? Probably not. But Leftwich will find a new NFL home as a free agent.
A couple of good fits would be in Atlanta or Kansas City. How will Garrard handle the pressure of knowing he's the guy? Only time will tell, but if he doesn't take this team to the playoff Jack Del Rio will be looking for a new home as well.
