Veteran quarterback Donovan McNabb was released Thursday by the Minnesota Vikings, a vote of confidence for rookie starter Christian Ponder and the end of the road for McNabb, who is now officially bouncing around the league since parting ways with Philadelphia two seasons ago.
One noted destination for McNabb: Dallas, where he would back up Tony Romo, as current No. 2 John Kitna is out with an injury, and as Joel Thorman notes at SBNation.com, the Cowboys did put a waiver claim in on Kyle Orton before he landed in Kansas City. Still, McNabb might best be suited in Chicago, his hometown and a rival to Dallas' playoff chances:
The Bears are probably the most popular destination for McNabb for a number of reasons. First, they lost Jay Cutler for what could be the entire season and they're now starting Caleb Hanie, who had his first career start last week (in a loss). Second, they put a claim in on Kyle Orton so you know they're willing to upgrade at quarterback. Third, Chicago is McNabb's home city, which doesn't necessarily mean anything because it's not his choice whether a team claims him, but it does show a willingness by him to play there. That said, there's some concern that McNabb may not be familiar enough with the Bears offense for them to make a claim.
ESPN Dallas is against McNabb to the Cowboys, citing "the drama" a veteran acquisition like McNabb would bring to a team renowned for its chemistry issues over the last decade. Writer Tim McMahon vetoes McNabb as a prospect right in the lede:
IRVING, Texas – The Cowboys don’t need the circus returning to Valley Ranch. Especially not because of a backup quarterback.
That’s why they’d be wise to pass on making a waiver claim for Donovan McNabb after the Vikings released the former Pro Bowler. Well, that plus the fact that McNabb isn’t an effective quarterback at age 35.
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