There was some concern after the Tennessee Titans' first preseason game. Marcus Mariota's debut in the NFL did not exactly go as planned as the Atlanta Falcons defense had their way with the rookie. However, improvement in the second game has everyone confident that Mariota is the man in charge for the Titans, putting Zach Mettenberger's future into question once more. With several teams needing backup quarterback help, will Tennessee shop the former starter before the year?
While Mariota looked good in his second preseason game, so Mettenberger as the Titans beat the St. Louis Rams. Mariota finished the night going 5-of-8 in passing for 59 yards while rushing for a yard as well. Mettenberger ended going 7-of-9 for 91 yards and touchdown. Mariota continues to cement himself as the starter for the Titans while many wonder if Mettenberger is being showcased for a trade in the future.
According to ESPN's Louis Riddick, the Titans should be shopping Mettenberger and there should be teams interested as he could be a potential quality starter for someone. Mettenberger's value is high right now. He is performing well in the preseason and every team is aware that the Titans are moving forward is Mariota. Tennessee could get a nice draft pick out of dealing the former LSU star before he just wastes away on the bench.
The logical option for Mettenberger is the New York Jets. Right now the team is without Geno Smith for the foreseeable future. Ryan Fitzpatrick is offering up very little confidence. Bryce Petty is not ready to start. Matt Flynn is not healthy. That leaves the Jets very few options entering a critical bounce-back season. New York has the weapons for Mettenberger to be success with Brandon Marshall and Eric Decker headlining the passing attack. He would be the idea fit to help the struggling offense.
The Buffalo Bills could be an option. The team is dealing with a three-headed quarterback battle. Tyrod Taylor appears to be winning the quarterback race over Matt Cassel and EJ Manuel, but there is really no telling if this is short-lived momentum or not. Manuel has fallen as a draft bust while Cassel is not a long-term option.
There are a small group of people arguing the Cleveland Browns would be wise to take a look. According to CBS Sports, some believe Mettenberger is the better option over an inconsistent Josh McCown and an injured Johnny Manziel. Do not count on this deal happening as Cleveland appears satisfied with their quarterback options entering the new season.
