I remember I was working that one April day, I had my cell phone on me and I was streaming the NFL draft. When I heard the news about Clausen being picked up. At first I wasn't too excited. Then I figured we'd found a serviceable QB.
Fast forward to the season, Matt Moore was looking better and better. But just couldn't seal the deal. Initiating that horrible show that most of us dreaded watching each and every week of that 2010 season. Yet there I was, hoping for a win. I got lucky and got to attend the only two winning games that season. Bitter sweet to be honest.
I was left with some really uneasy impression of Clausen. I wasn't hard on the guy for the season, it was a circus and he was in the middle of it, although I knew in the back of my mind that I was thinking, he's not the answer.
Jump a year ahead, We pick up Cam, the rest is history. Sweet deal.
Things aren't done yet. Clausen, is still in a panthers roster. He's still on this team. I don't hate the guy. Heck, he gave us Cam. I'd never be able to hate the guy. Is having him on the roster really necessary? Let's think about it for a second. He can't run this offense. Derek Anderson signed another contract and is the only guy I'd trust at this moment to run the offense in case, god forbid, something happens to Cam. Let's hope that never happens. Anyway, Clausen is just there... Idle. Not doing anything. What can be done with him?
Cut him, you save some cash. Not sure on the specifics, but I was reading somewhere around the 1.1 million range. Save a million! That's the natural response right? Yes.
Trade him? Some of you would have some witty remark about a bag of chips and a 12 pack of beer after suggesting such a thing. But what if he can get traded? What would he garner and would any of you mind a low round draft choice? Lets not put it out of the realm of possibility. Goodson was just shipped out, could happen.
He was picked in the second round. About the only things he has going for him are that he's young and.. He's young, I honestly believe in the right system he can be serviceable. The question is, where? Who would be the right team?
Miami? Cleveland? Arizona?
Would any team be willing to part ways with a player or draft choice? If so what player or what round?
Can Jimmy produce a 5th, 6th, or 7th round pick? I think he can.
I certainly hope Marty Hurney explores all the options, even though they are limited, before cutting him.
Bottom line is, Clausen has to go. He's wasting a roster spot that could potentially be filled by a person that will contribute to this team.
Adios, Jimmy.
I know, the off season is rather slow..Hah.
