Browns Musings: The Fate of Brady Quinn

It took me a day to get over my shock at the trade that sent Kellen Winslow II out of Cleveland. There hasn't been a player I have liked more in this new era more than him. But, after thinking about it, I recovered. It made sense. He was at times more of a headache than a help. So, confident that either the Browns would make no other shocking moves, or secretly hoping that Braylon Edwards would be added to the trading block, I have been trying to keep up with anything related to the Orange and Brown.

My nerves were shaken though when I ran across this speculative article, 'Quinn and Rogers for Cutler? Would you Do It?' and almost had a heart attack. The logic is right on. The deal may actually be sound, if Cutler came with some form of draft pick attached! But, I don't think I am emotionally ready to watch Brady Quinn leave town. I have been too swept up in the excitement of his arrival and never ending battle to take over the team as the starting quarterback. So I am not a fan of bringing Cutler aboard.

Jay Cutler is an excellent QB. Don't get me wrong. I think his arm is accurate and strong. He could definitely be Browns "best QB - BY FAR, since their return in 1999." I just don't know if I want him to be. If the new regime in Cleveland isn't sure about Quinn, send Rogers and Anderson to Denver. Let Cutler and Quinn battle for the starting job. Just give the hometown kid a chance.

What do I know about evaluating NFL talent though? Could I be off the mark with Quinn? Could he ever be the Cleveland version of Tom Brady? I hear he has the work ethic. Most say he definitely has high football IQ. I thought he showed exceptional leadership skills when he made it onto the field. Biggest drawback for me seems to be his size. He comes in at a pedestrian 6'3. On further review just an inch shy of Tom. So, maybe that isn't such a big deal.

Also, what does Cutler give us? He's the same height as Quinn. He does have more experience. He has a solid QB rating of 86.0. He is one year older than Quinn, which at 25, is negligible. I don't see the added value here. It isn't like we would be trading for the next Joe Montana. This doesn't look to be a trade worth making

Regardless, I guess if I were to answer the question, I am sticking with Quinn and doing what I can to smooth over the ill feelings Rogers has with the club. He's a professional, and a very well paid one at that. These things can be worked out. Let Jay Cutler stay in Denver. That's what I would do. Stand pat, draft well, and develop what I have. There is always next year to make a move.

Sources:

Matt Loede, "Quinn and Rogers for Cutler? Would you Do It?", Brownsgab.com

www.NFL.Com/players