4 veteran QBs who could compete with Teddy Bridgewater in 2021
By Dean Jones
Which veteran quarterbacks could compete with Teddy Bridgewater in 2021?
Teddy Bridgewater did nothing to dispel the notion that he is the man to lead the Carolina Panthers moving forward despite their win at the Washington Football Team in Week 16. The quarterback was his usual nervy self, throwing for just 197 yards and one touchdown during an outing that could easily have brought three turnovers instead of two.
Time is running out for Bridgewater to convince large sections of Carolina’s fanbase that he is a viable long-term option. However, all that matters is the opinion of the coaching staff and if they feel their free-agent signing has done enough, then he’ll be the No. 1 option at the position in 2021.
There is a chance that the Panthers draft their quarterback of the future in the NFL Draft, although their victory at FedEx Field probably comes with the likes of Trey Lance, Justin Fields, and Zach Wilson being off the board unless they trade up. This might mean Carolina could explore the free-agent market for a veteran with a point to prove as it doesn’t appear they have any real confidence in current backup options Will Grier and P.J. Walker.
Let’s take a look at four possible options for the Panthers regarding a signal-caller who could compete with Bridgewater in 2021.
Quarterback No. 1
Jacoby Brissett – Indianapolis Colts
Jacoby Brissett had the unenviable task of filling the void left by Andrew Luck and although there were some nice moments in 2019, it didn’t stop the Colts from signing Philip Rivers to a one-year deal worth $25 million in free agency.
This was a blow to Brissett’s overall development, of that there is little doubt. But his strong arm and mobility to get out of the pocket when a play isn’t developing as expected make him an intriguing proposition in the eventuality Bridgewater doesn’t work out.
As is the case with every player on this list, any potential move for Brissett would need to make financial sense. There is also the question of whether Indianapolis will give him an extension if Rivers hangs up his cleats.