There have been a lot of recent quarterback moves in the NFL. Elite stars like Russell Wilson and Deshaun Watson have new teams. Mid-tier quarterbacks such as Carson Wentz, Matt Ryan, and Mitchell Trubisky are moving on as well. There are still teams needing a quarterback, but the list of quality players is decreasing. One of the names to watch is the Eagles’ backup quarterback Gardner Minshew.
Minshew has expressed interest in being a starting quarterback in the NFL. He has played well in his limited opportunities with the Jaguars and Eagles. As a quarterback, Minshew is very accurate, plays well under pressure, and has good arm strength. These traits could make him a starter on some teams. Here is a list of updated possible destinations for Gardner Minshew:
Seattle Seahawks
The Seattle Seahawks are currently in rebuilding mode. Their franchise quarterback, Russell Wilson, was traded away for draft picks and quarterback Drew Lock. Lock has NFL starting experience but was just 4-12 as a starter the last two seasons. He has thrown 25 career touchdowns but has 20 career interceptions plus five lost fumbles. Lock’s turnover problem is a huge weakness.
The Seahawks are unlikely to use Drew Lock as the long-term starter. They might look to grab another quarterback in the draft or they could find someone experienced. Veteran quarterbacks like Baker Mayfield and Jimmy Garoppolo could be available, but Minshew could be a better value for the Seahawks.
Minshew could provide competition for Drew Lock and could even win the starting job. Minshew played his final year of college football at Washington State, so this could be a great fit for Seahawks fans.
Houston Texans
The Houston Texans had a disastrous season in 2021. Deshaun Watson was inactive and then traded due to his off-the-field allegations and disinterest in staying with the team. The Texans turned to rookie Davis Mills and Tyrod Taylor to lead the team. Neither one was effective and the Texans went 3-14. The Texans could be looking at taking a QB in the draft but trading for Minshew might make more sense.
Gardner Minshew has NFL starting experience. He played well even on a bad team when he was with the Jaguars. Minshew could bring stability to the QB situation as the Texans rebuild. The Texans have a long process ahead of them, so it is unlikely they try to find a franchise quarterback in the next year or two. Minshew could be the temporary starter or at least provide competition in the Texans’ quarterback room.
Carolina Panthers
The Carolina Panthers enter 2022 with questions at the quarterback position. Former Temple coach, Matt Rhule, faced a lot of criticism with his quarterback moves as this past season went on. In 2021, the Panthers traded for Sam Darnold before the season, traded for Cam Newton mid-season, and used backup PJ Walker in certain game situations later in the season. There was no stability at quarterback and the Panthers went 2-12 after the first full month of the 2021 season.
The Panthers are likely drafting a quarterback in next month’s draft. It is unknown if whoever they draft will be ready by the season opener. Trading for Gardner Minshew could give the Panthers flexibility. Minshew could be ready to start or at least be a reliable backup. He would be an upgrade over the current stable of Panthers quarterbacks.
Philadelphia Eagles
The most logical destination for Gardner Minshew is right here in Philadelphia. Minshew was traded to the Eagles right before the 2021 season. He filled in for Jalen Hurts for a December game as the Eagles made their playoff run. Minshew made the most of his opportunity. He threw for 242 yards, two touchdowns, and completed 80 percent of his passes. Minshew had one more start and that was the Week 18 game with the Eagles resting all their starters.
The Eagles need a reliable backup, and they already have that in Gardner Minshew. Reid Sinnett is next on the depth chart if they trade Minshew away. Sinnett has never taken an NFL snap, so he would not be experienced enough if called upon.
Gardner Minshew was a great team player in 2021. He did express interest in the starting job, but he accepted his role as a backup. Minshew worked well with Jalen Hurts through the ups and downs of his season. Though Hurts is athletic and tough, his playing style could leave him more susceptible to injuries. Keeping Gardner Minshew would allow the Eagles to have a reliable backup to win games for them if called upon.
