Dec 8, 2013; Tampa, FL, USA; Buffalo Bills quarterback EJ Manuel (3) reacts after he got pressured by Tampa Bay Buccaneers defensive tackle Gerald McCoy (93) during the first half at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
After EJ Manuel was selected in last year’s draft many thought this teams quarterback problem would finally be over. The years of having terrible play at the position along with guys that just couldn’t keep up the consistent play caused much resentment against this organization. How could the most important position on the field be neglected for so long?
That said Manuel was drafted to be the guy of the future and to lead this team. After having a first season like he did with the injuries and shaky play my question is do you really trust him?
Now I know the injuries are unfortunate but three knee injuries in a single season scares me. The constant work and rehab to those knees tells players around the league to target the lower have of his body and possibly will have EJ thinking twice about everything when he carries the ball. You hear EJ say in interviews that when those injuries are rectified he puts in behind him but I just don’t buy it. That will always be in the back of his mind for as long as he plays I believe. With the confirmed report of him needing a procedure last month, it was stated this week it was only “minor” nonetheless only adds to the problems to his past misfortunes.
Looking ahead I think this team needs to seriously look at drafting a quarterback. The problems that Manuel has dealt with just don’t happen. I’m not saying to get rid of EJ just like that but I would like them to have a backup plan in place if he was to go down again but possibly for a longer period of time. I know they have Thad but I see him more as of 3rd string guy. I don’t think one will be drafted but if they could get a valve guy in the 4th or 5th round that would be great. Someone to keep an eye on is Aaron Murray out of Georgia.
So looking at what this fan base has had to deal with in the first year of having their so called franchise guy I hope it gets better. For years we abandoned the position and now I think we should be planning so that this never happens again. Agree? Disagree?