We're a week away from when NFL teams have to make their first cutdowns (teams have to go from 90 to 75 on August 27, followed by going from 75 to 53 on August 31), and Judd Zulgad of 1500 ESPN just put something across the Twitter that is a bit eyebrow-raising, to say the least.
Interesting report from
— Judd Zulgad (@1500ESPNJudd) August 21, 2012@jasoncoleyahoo that Vikes are among teams interested in Tarvaris Jackson. Never thought Spielman was a big fan.
To me, this doesn't make a whole lot of sense, but there is a scenario where it's feasible, I suppose.
That scenario is that the team has determined that Joe Webb, while he may have a spot on the roster somewhere, is not going to develop into what the Minnesota Vikings want him to at quarterback. After all, Webb has completed just 42.3% of his passes (11-of-26) in the first two pre-season games, but he has been very effective as a change-up option. I don't think there's any chance that Joe Webb gets cut, mind you. . .but the Vikings might have to find a different role for him.
Sage Rosenfels has the "gritty, wily veteran" role as the third-string quarterback locked up, and I think the Vikings are of the impression that they can get McLeod Bethel-Thompson onto the practice squad. So any interest in Tarvaris Jackson, in my opinion, has to be tied directly to Webb's perceived development.
Jackson was much maligned during his time in Minnesota. He had some injuries in his first couple of seasons, played extremely well in getting the Vikings to the NFC North title in 2008. . .and then got caught up in the Brett Favre circus in 2009 and 2010 before leaving for Seattle. Seahawks coach Pete Carroll was happy with the Jackson signing, with the Seahawks openly declaring that Tarvaris had been "jerked around" when he was in Minnesota. Of course, after giving Jackson the reins for one whole season, the Seahawks proceeded to sign former Packers backup Matt Flynn (he of the two career NFL starts) and have spent this pre-season. . .well. . .jerking Tarvaris Jackson around (he didn't even play in the Seahawks' exhibition opener).
Would Jackson be an upgrade over Joe Webb? From a purely quarterbacking standpoint, I think the answer would have to be yes. I think it's a real long shot to happen, but at least a couple of folks seem to be under the impression that the Vikings are interested.