The question seems to be on the minds of football fans
everywhere: Where will Gilroy’s Jeff Garcia land next season?
The question seems to be on the minds of football fans everywhere: Where will Gilroy’s Jeff Garcia land next season?
It won’t be in Philadelphia. The Eagles sealed the deal last weekend when they re-signed A.J. Feeley to a three-year contract to back up Donovan McNabb. That left Garcia on the outside looking in and seeking his fifth team in five years.
Garcia had publicly stated a preference to return to Philadelphia. According to his agent, Steve Baker, Garcia was willing to return as a backup to Donovan McNabb for less money.
“Jeff had such a positive experience in Philadelphia,” Baker said in a telephone conversation. “After his performances in December and January, Jeff proved he could be a starting quarterback. And yet he publicly stated that he definitely wanted to go back to the Eagles, which might have turned away some general managers.”
So why didn’t a deal get done? This is where the process gets a little complicated and murky at the same time.
The Eagles have a reputation as being tough negotiators (Baker calls the climate “challenging but not dishonest.”)
They already had Feeley, who has had success in Philadelphia and was less expensive than Garcia. Because Garcia had already publicly stated a desire to remain in Philly, the Eagles in a sense had him over a barrel.
Baker won’t bad-mouth the Eagles for obvious reasons. What he will say is that “they created an ultimatum.”
That ultimatum was that Garcia sign before the free-agency period begins Friday. Garcia wanted a five-day window to explore his options. The Eagles said that was unacceptable. According to Baker, he said, “Fine, make us an offer.” But the Eagles wanted to hear what Garcia wanted.
Garcia balked at naming a figure. The Eagles moved quickly to extend the one-year contract Feeley already had. Garcia said he was surprised that Philadelphia didn’t make him an offer. But again, the Eagles have a reputation for making decisions and standing firm with them. After all, Garcia’s contract was for the veteran’s minimum. Thus, the Eagles decided to pass on Garcia and stick with a quarterback who has had success in their system but not elsewhere.
So where does that leave Garcia?
Obviously, Baker won’t name names or terms other than to state three criteria Garcia will seek – quality of playing experience, quality of environment and compensation. Garcia would prefer to start, but he is willing to sign as a backup in the right environment.
So who are the players? It looks like Denver is the leading candidate. Baker wouldn’t confirm or deny it. If Garcia signs with the Broncos, it is as a backup to Jay Cutler.
Forget Jake Plummer. A Plummer-to-Houston trade is almost a done deal.
Tampa Bay is another possibility with its unsettled quarterback situation and the health issues surrounding Chris Simms. The Bucs operate an offense which Garcia would feel comfortable running, and besides he would get a chance to start.
Minnesota was one of the early favorites, but the Vikings have reportedly backed off. Still, they figure to be a player because of their quarterback situation.
Oakland would be a popular choice as it would bring Garcia back to the Bay Area. There’s little question that the Raiders cut Aaron Brooks because they will use the No. 1 selection in the draft on a quarterback, most likely JaMarcus Russell. The Raiders’ weak offensive line, however, would be problematic.
Denver makes the most sense, as it would bring Garcia 2,000 miles closer to home. The Broncos are not in rebuilding mode and are known for a strong running game, which takes a lot of pressure off of the quarterback.
So when will it get done? Certainly not before Friday when free agency officially starts.
But remember that Garcia signed last March 16, so it makes sense for him to make a decision as soon as he gets the offer he wants. As for money, the Damon Huard deal done Tuesday by Kansas City will be a measuring stick. Huard re-upped with the Chiefs for a reported $7.5 million for three years. Garcia won’t make the big bucks he earned four years ago when he was the highest paid quarterback in the NFL.
And yet, Garcia proved there is still a lot of life left in his 37-year-old legs (and body) with his wonderful performance in relief of McNabb. The love affair in the city of Brotherly Love has ended.
So, will Garcia be wearing a Mile High smile any time soon?
Contact Marc David at (408) 842-1694 or at mdavid@
svnewspapers.com.
