Who's your QB next week...next year

[Big Texas]

So, how long is Savage out?
If he's available, does he get the start over Keenum?
Does Keenum get another shot for next year?
Does Fitz get another shot?

Me personally, I'm dropping Fitz...taking my chances on the Keenum, Savage, Mallet trio...

I can't see us drafting another mid round QB.

This team is a QB and a solid slot receiver away from a deep run into the playoffs.

[Keith]

Probably have to roll out Keenum versus the Jaguars, but next season I would much rather have Savage over Keenum.

I think this becomes Mallett's team in 2015. I don't know enough yet about any viable options early in the draft that could tempt the Texans, and there isn't really a potential veteran expected to be on the market that wows me either. And I agree, another mid-round QB who would be behind Savage in terms of development isn't going to do more than take up a spot on the practice squad.

Savage and Fitz are coming back to camp next year, though that does not mean either are guaranteed a roster spot.

[barrett]

Probably Mallett. His injury and missing out on enough time to judge him is probably the biggest downer of 2014.

I don't mind if Fitz comes back. I hope O'Brien falls in love with a QB in the draft.

[Arky]

After what happened this year with the QB injury bug, I think they gotta go with keeping three on the 53 next year with maybe a fourth on the PS.

I think Mallet has the inside track to be the starter going into 2015. I think Savage did nothing to discourage his chances of sticking around for future development. So, that leaves Fitz (more $$$, more experience) or Keenum (less $$$, less experience) as the #2. Keenum can certainly help himself with a good passing performance against the Jags..... so, maybe this can be better answered next week or during the off season...

[Warren]

I agree that Mallett should be re-signed and should go into the offseason at least competing for the starting job. Just based on how little they had to give up to get him I don't think he'd be a hot free agent despite his strong showing against the Browns, and if he's smart he'll recognize this is a good situation for him.

I don't think Keenum did anything yesterday that would put him back into the mix long-term. I think they're comfortable with Fitzpatrick as the veteran backup and his $3.8 million against the cap next year isn't unreasonable for a team that won't be spending much (relatively) on the QB position.

In free agency, there should be former first-rounders (Jake Locker, Christian Ponder, Blaine Gabbert) who could be viewed as reclamation projects available on the cheap and some guys who have had some success (Mark Sanchez, Brian Hoyer) but nobody really intriguing.

It'll be interesting to see how Savage progresses, and I agree that the wildcard is if there's some QB in the draft who they really like.

[Keith]

Originally Posted by Warren

I agree that Mallett should be re-signed and should go into the offseason at least competing for the starting job. Just based on how little they had to give up to get him I don't think he'd be a hot free agent despite his strong showing against the Browns, and if he's smart he'll recognize this is a good situation for him.

Didn't see the TV broadcast, so I don't know how evident this was to those viewing the game vs. the Ravens at home, but Mallett was active before the game talking to teammates, the during the game on the sideline. Wearing a sling, meeting guys coming off the field, talking them up... generally acting like someone who wants to be here and be a future leader of the team.

So I'm guessing that Mallett definitely realizes this is the best situation for him, and I doubt it will take top dollar to keep him around. I'd actually endorse signing him to more than just another 1- or 2-year deal. The cap is growing, and taking a gamble on a guy who is a vet and fits O'Brien's physical model of an ideal passer would be a huge win if Mallett really turns out to be the long-term starter and could play for a friendly cap value.

Never thought I'd ever say that about Mallett pre-trade. Brave new world.

[chuck]

Originally Posted by Keith

Didn't see the TV broadcast, so I don't know how evident this was to those viewing the game vs. the Ravens at home, but Mallett was active before the game talking to teammates, the during the game on the sideline. Wearing a sling, meeting guys coming off the field, talking them up... generally acting like someone who wants to be here and be a future leader of the team.

I saw this during the game and had the same reaction you did. It's weird, 'smart' is not something the general consensus ascribes to Scantron Mallett but who knows? He looked damn good that one game. Savage also looked pretty good for a rookie rushed into action for the few plays we got to see him.

The worst quarterback to play a down for the team this year is also oddly the most likable.