What Michael Vick won't be

[Defensewins]

Originally Posted by JoeRedskin

^^ Like Shaub did in Atlanta? Seriously, there is such a dearth of QB's that back-ups only need one or two spectacular or even better than average games to be highly sought after. All you need is a flash of talent and a FO desparate enough and, blamo!, first round pick baby! Anyone remember Scott Mitchell? Rob Johnson? Shaub at least panned out a little. How about SD giving up a ton of draft picks for the chance to take Leaf.

The QB position is so important and it is so hard to find consistent starters that teams will pay a lot on little evidence to grab a guy with potential. Real (Shaub) or imagined (Johnson).

Very true.
Another thing that has changed in the NFL is teams no longer keep QB's for a long time and let them develop on the bench. Like we did with Mark Rypien.
Teams do not have the patience to develop a guy or two.
Salary cap and free agency probably has a lot to do with it.
If you keep a backup for 3 to 5 years you probably won't be able to afford him as your back up much longer.