Mark Brunell Brings Leadership to Saints

Blogcasting the National Football League, Blogcasting the NFL

It’s nice to see Mark Brunell continuing to thrive in the National Football League. At 37-years-old and now a 16-year vet (hard to believe, I know), Mark has gladly taken on the role of backup quarterback to Drew Brees in New Orleans. And he’s apparently doing quite well in OTAs. According to head coach Sean Payton:

“He’s a quick study. He’s very experienced, and there is a level of confidence when a guy like him has played so long and at such a high level. He still has the arm strength, still moves around well. He’s been a good addition. He has handled everything we’ve given him now, and when you’re at quarterback, there is a lot of things that go on when you change organizations. He also brings some leadership to this locker room, which is important.”

Mark will compete with Tyler Palko for the second-string spot, but I like the experience and smarts Mark brings to the Saints. Tyler played at my alma mater (Pitt) and will be a fine quarterback in this league, but he’s only in his second season and still has a lot to learn. Who better to study from than Drew Brees and Mark Brunell? As with any team, the backup QB is just one play away from being the starter and while Mark certainly won’t showcase the same excitement he brought to the game as a youngster (he was amazing in Jacksonville), he can still get the job done. The Saints are lucky to have him.

Source: Nola.com, Photo: Newscom