Do the Packers Really Need Experience at Back Up QB?

With just a few weeks until the 2008 NFL draft, a lot of Green Bay Packers fans are a bit concerned about the fact the team has yet to sign a veteran player to back up new starting quarterback Aaron Rodgers. And, each week, that concern grows as more veteran free agents are signed by other teams.

While having a veteran passer backing up a first-time starter has its merits, both from a mentor stand-point and having someone with experience in case the younger guy is a failure; there is also a question about whether the team really needs an older player or if they will be just as well off with a younger quarterback.

Simply put, a veteran back up is a back up because he can't win as a starter. Guys like Trent Dilfer, Gus Frerotte and even Aaron Brooks might be decent if they have to finish a game for you but you wouldn't want them starting for your team either; something that could happen if there's an injury. So, why is having an unproven rookie as your backup any more of a risk?

In fact, several teams, including the Packers have done just that. In 1993, the Packers brought in 5^th round draft pick Mark Brunell to replace Don Majkowski as second-year starter Brett Favre's back up. Judging by Brunell's later career with the Jacksonville Jaguars, I find it hard to believe the Packers downgraded the spot by replacing a veteran with a rookie.

The advantage of a younger player at the position is it gives you the opportunity to develop them in your offense; something some veteran players do have problems with, especially if it's a complicated West Coast Offense (remember Tim Couch). Plus, with a younger player, your only real concern is his lack of experience. With an older veteran, you also have to be concerned he might start showing his age at any moment. As Favre taught us in his first seasons as a Packer, you don't need experience to win a game if you have a strong arm. And, with the depth the Packers have at receiver right now, you really don't even need that much; especially if the team can improve its running game.

The Packers may still choose to sign a veteran passer later this off season. But, don't be surprised if the team instead chooses to fill the back up quarterback vacancy the same way they fill most of their needs; through the draft. A second or third round draft pick might not be ideal in the eyes of many fans. But, I don't see a situation like that hurting the team any more than bringing in a veteran player who is past his prime or has never been successful as a starter.