4 Potential Destinations for Andy Dalton in Free Agency
By Sean Facey
Even after their shocking win over the New York Jets, the Cincinnati Bengals are still in line to have their choice of quarterback in this year's draft. This, of course, spells the end of the Andy Dalton era in Cincy. With their former franchise star heading into free agency this offseason (bizarrely red hot on this particular Sunday), here are four possible landing spots for him.
4. Chicago Bears
The Bears stand out as a possible team for Dalton to sign with, considering how poorly Mitchell Trubisky has played. The standard for talent at quarterback is incredibly low in Chicago, and Dalton could finally be the solution to their passing woes. His career 88.0 passer rating would be significantly better than Trubisky's mark this year.
3. Carolina Panthers
The quarterback position is in flux down in Charlotte, and it the starting job might end up being ripe for the picking for Dalton. Star passer Cam Newton is likely out the door, and Kyle Allen has regressed significantly since his hot start to the year. If the Panthers end up making a coaching change, then Dalton could find himself a new home.
2. Los Angeles Chargers
Phillip Rivers, who is also set to be a free agent this year, has expressed interest in playing for a team other than the Chargers, opening the door for Dalton to take over. At his best, he can provide similar production to what Rivers has given them, especially with Keenan Allen in his receiving corps. It would be a bit of a gamble for the Chargers, but it could end up paying off and buying them some extra years of competence under center as they look for their next solution.
1. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
By any metric, the Buccaneers can do significantly better than Jameis Winston. His 3.3% career interception rate is off the charts bad, and that's not even mentioning the amount of fumbles he coughs up. Though Dalton's ball security isn't necessarily elite, it's a major improvement over Winston's. Even just one extra possession per game could be a major difference maker for Tampa Bay, and this could be the right fit for Dalton.