Christian Ponder is about to see the most playing time he will likely get this season if he remains on the Minnesota Vikings roster. The team plans on sitting Matt Cassel since he is the presumed starter for Week 1 while Teddy Bridgewater might see some brief playing time. Then it is Ponder's game to take over and if things go well, he might get that trade he has been hinting at over the past few weeks. Head coach Mike Zimmer expects to see big things from the former first-round picks.
Ponder is not at risk of getting released. The Vikings still owe him guaranteed money off his rookie contract. However, there is real incentive to play well as numerous teams could be looking for more quarterback options. If Ponder stays in Minnesota, he will be stuck at third string with no hope of moving up. However, teams like the St. Louis Rams, Buffalo Bills and San Francisco 49ers are looking for depth help. Zimmer simply hopes that Ponder takes his time on the field and makes smart decisions.
"Just have the poise, when he's getting rushed, to make the right throws," Zimmer said, via the Pioneer Press. "I'd like to see him do what he does out here in practice. He made, like, three great throws [Tuesday]."
That statement sums up the idea that Ponder is no longer a franchise quarterback. However, in a new situation he might find a bit more success. At this point, Vikings fans do not care about the quarterback. The few times Ponder has stepped onto the field in the preseason he was showered with boos from fans who expected more from the former No. 12 draft pick. Ponder says that he is not thinking about auditioning in Thursday's game, but more so concentrating on just improving overall.
"I just want to go out and have a good game, not for an audition for another team or anything, but for myself and this team," Ponder said. "Right now, my thoughts are securing a spot on this roster."
The chances that Ponder gets traded are slim to none. However, the Rams need a starter and the Bills and 49ers need better backups. There are some chances if Ponder can take advantage of them.