Josh McCown is one of the many free agent quarterbacks hoping to earn a starting role in 2014. The veteran backup had a breakout season thanks to injuries to Jay Cutler and now appears ready to capitalize on his recent success. After originally stating his intentions to return to Chicago, McCown is getting a lot of interest that could have him heading elsewhere.
While speaking on ESPN's Mike & Mike, McCown said free agency was more than money for him. The veteran is looking for a starting role and he only intends on signing with a team that gives him that option. So, Chicago is essentially ruled out despite his history with team. However, there are still plenty of options for McCown has he confirms at least four teams have called him prior to free agency beginning.
"We've talked to four teams," McCown said, via ESPN.com. "There have been good discussions and we'll take those as they come and evaluate those situations. To leave Chicago it will be a situation where I'm looking to compete to start, or to start, and to grow more as a player. The only way you can do that as a player is on the field. So that will definitely be something that we're looking at."
McCown has said the coaching staff and players will be a big factor in where he decides to play in 2014. That leaves the Tampa Bay Buccaneers as a true favorite to land the veteran. The new head coach in Tampa happens to be McCown's old coach, Lovie Smith. NFL.com's Ian Rapoport is writing that Smith is looking for a veteran quarterback to help backup Mike Glennon and challenge him. McCown could be the top target for Tampa Bay.
The Buccaneers are not the only team interested in McCown. With Matt Cassel and Chad Henne off the market, he becomes one of the best quarterbacks available. The New York Jets are looking for a veteran and believe McCown could be a perfect outside of someone like Michael Vick or even Mark Sanchez.
The quarterback tossed 13 touchdowns and one interception in five games last season. His numbers and completion percentages were better than Cutlers. A return to Chicago would be the best thing for the Bears, but the Buccaneers have everything McCown is looking for and more.
