The Jets have traded for former Patriots quarterback Kevin O'Connell, just acquired off waivers by the Lions. Gang Green put in a claim last week when the Pats stuck him on waivers. He ended up in Detroit. O'Connell was a third round pick by New England a year ago. It seemed as though the team was grooming him to take over for Matt Cassel as backup quarterback before abruptly dumping him.
O'Connell has some decent tools. Here's what Sports Illustrated said about him before the 2008 Draft:
Well-sized pocket-passer with poor accuracy. Poised, displays a nice sense of what's happening on the field, and shows good awareness in the pocket. Senses pressure and buys as much time as possible for receivers. Savvy, effectively leads the offense, and does not get rattled under pressure. Possesses the arm strength to get passes downfield, puts touch on throws when necessary, and delivers the ball with good timing.
This probably means the end for
Kellen Clemens. Making a move for a second year player like this means the
Jets hope to develop him into a long term backup for
Mark Sanchez. Would the Jets have given something up for a player if they were convinced Clemens was the answer as a backup? I don't think so, and Clemens' lousy camp and preseason only makes this more convincing. You wouldn't give up anything for a third stringer. How often does a number three quarterback see the field?
You need two quality quarterbacks in this league. If you don't have two, your team is one hit away from seeing its season go down the drain. If the Jets turn O'Connell into something, they will be able to flip him for a big return in a few years.
I'm a bit leery just because the Pats dropped him. When was the last time New England let somebody go who really came back to bite them? Then again, they saw enough in him to use a third round pick last year, and the Jets must have seen a lot to like to go after him twice in one week.
