SI.com’s Ross Tucker notes one player from each of the 32 NFL teams that must make an early impact in the 2008 season.
Derek Anderson, QB, Cleveland Browns: It doesn’t matter how well Anderson played in 2007 or what the numbers are on his new contract. If he doesn’t play well early, on a team with high expectations and primetime games galore, fans will call for local boy Brady Quinn.
Aaron Rodgers, QB, Green Bay Packers: They won’t have a short leash with Rodgers as he likely will be given the whole season to show what he can do, but they took Brohm for a reason and there may be a guy in Mississippi who they have on speed dial should they need reinforcements from the cavalry. Rodgers needs to perform early in order to foster confidence among his teammates.
Matt Jones, WR, Jacksonville Jaguars: Jones was taken in the first round by the Jaguars for a reason. Unfortunately, they still don’t know what that reason was. Jones stature took a hit with the signing of Jerry Porter and trade for Troy Williamson, though the departure of Ernest Wilford helps his cause towards being their red-zone threat.
Donovan McNabb, QB, Philadelphia Eagles: Though it is not being talked about much in Philadelphia, if the Eagles get off to a horrific start, some members of the organization and fan base may clamor to see what Kevin Kolb can do…
McNabb is so under appreciated it’s not even funny. As soon as he throws his first interception the fans in Philly will be calling for Kolb’s name. And this is a huge year for Rodgers, because quite frankly, I think Brian Brohm is going to be a solid pro quarterback.
I doubt Matt Jones makes it out of Jacksonville’s camp and this is just a hunch, but I bet this will be D.A.’s last year in Cleveland. If he plays well, the Browns can try to ask for a king’s ransom in a trade. If he struggles, they might not get a lot in return, but Quinn becomes the starter in 2009 regardless. Again, that’s just a hunch.
