Washingtonians love quarterback controversies, even if they have to go to the backup slot.
Jason Campbell is No. 1. At least for this season. Let next year worry about itself. But Redskins fans can still argue over the position — this time pitting Todd Collins versus Colt Brennan. For fans, it’s a no-lose competition.
Coach Jim Zorn plans to play the tandem, plus fourth-stringer Chase Daniel, throughout the preseason beginning Aug. 13 against Baltimore. Campbell gets the traditional short sessions to avoid injury, but Zorn is already intrigued over the reserve role. Collins is currently No. 2.
“I really want to see Colt,” Zorn said. “I think he’s worked hard this offseason so that he can try to get that No. 2 spot. But then when you look at what Todd has done this offseason, you definitely can say that he’s improved. He’s not going allow Colt to take his position.”
Fans won’t find it easy to take sides. They still remember Collins’ miraculous 2007 finish when he won four straight games in relief with near-perfect performances as the Redskins reached the playoffs following Sean Taylor’s death. Collins is a career backup who didn’t play last year, but 2007 showed he’s an ace in reserve.
However, Brennan has become the latest cult figure among backup quarterbacks, who are usually among the more popular players among Redskins fans. Like his avid following after two standout seasons in Hawaii, Brennan won over fans in the opening Hall of Fame game by showing some of the same moxie that Hall of Famer Sonny Jurgensen once displayed.
“I remember running on the field, I had an ovation” Brennan said. “That was calming, like I was already accepted. I wanted to give them a show.”
So why mess with the legend? Maybe bow out now while fans still love him. Seriously, fans will be yelling for Brennan should Campbell falter, but he must prove his worth once more.
“The pressure’s on, but I’m not afraid of that,” Brennan said, “Last year, I proved I could play in the NFL. This year I have to be more consistent.
“There’s no job security. You’re either moving up or you’re moving down. Right now I’m a third-string quarterback. I want to prove myself, be in the league a long time and this is the first step to that.”
Rick Snider has covered local sports since 1978. Read more at TheRickSniderReport.com or
e-mail [email protected].
