The Philadelphia Eagles have been facing questions about a backup quarterback since the 2011 season ended. While Mike Kafka figures to be the main guy behind Michael Vick, many fans would like to see the team bring in a better option. Personally, I wouldn't mind seeing another veteran compete with Kafka during training camp. However, one recent rumor has no interest for me. Football writer Peter King recently suggested that the Eagles make a run at Colt McCoy. As a fan, I don't think there is anything to gain with a move like that.
When thinking about McCoy as a player, there's a lot of things I like. He is a smart and composed quarterback that has a tremendous amount of toughness. He also has some decent experience. McCoy started 13 games for the Cleveland Browns in 2011. Those are all nice things when you're evaluating a football player. However, I don't see McCoy fitting the need that the Eagles have. If they are going to add a backup quarterback, they need a veteran guy that can help immediately should the worst happen to Vick. McCoy isn't really that type of player. He's still a young quarterback with a questionable amount of potential. The Eagles already have that in Kafka.
I can see why the McCoy speculation has started. He became expendable when the Browns drafted Brandon Weeden in the first round. Meanwhile, the Eagles have questions at the position. It makes sense that available quarterbacks would be linked to them. However, I disagree with the notion that McCoy has a future with the Eagles. Rookie Nick Foles deserves the first crack at taking over for Vick when that day comes. By all accounts, he has more potential than McCoy. There is no point in trading a draft pick for a quarterback that has no long term potential. There will be more fitting options available on the open market.
While I still think the Eagles need to look at a different quarterback, I don't think the need is as severe as many think. It's not like the Eagles need to exhaust all means in order to find a number two guy. I'd much rather stick with Kafka than overspend for the wrong guy. If there is a solid player that is cut between now and the season opener, I would love to see the Eagles get him. However, I don't think they need to trade for someone like McCoy.
Mark Paul is a Philadelphia resident and lifelong Eagles fan.
