Donovan McNabb believes that the odds of him returning to the NFL in 2012 are stacked in his favor.
The former 3rd overall pick stated on NBC SportsTalk that there are currently three clubs that he is considering. Not to play spin doctor, but McNabb's wording sounds a bit...enhanced. After two lackluster seasons in which he lost not one, but two starting jobs (at least temporarily) to subpar replacements, McNabb might not exactly be writing his own ticket.
In 2010, McNabb was brought in to help provide a spark for a Washington franchise that has struggled to be a factor in the NFC East since a brief playoff appearance in 2005. What he provided was 14 TDs, 15 picks, and a benching in favor of Rex Grossman. The Redskins finished with a 6-10 record.
In 2011, McNabb was criticized for appearing to take his new role with the Minnesota Vikings too lightly. Slated to be the starter on a promising Viking offense while Christian Ponder developed, McNabb only saw action in six games. He threw for a paltry four TDs and was benched less than halfway through the season after amassing only a 1-5 record.
McNabb did enjoy a successful career in Philadelphia. Drafted by the Eagles in 1999 out of Syracuse, the Chicago native soon elevated Philadelphia to perennial Super Bowl contention. McNabb eventually led the Eagles past the NFC Title game and into the 2004/2005 Super Bowl where they fell to the New England Patriots.
The Eagles remained in the hunt during the following years and even managed to carry on without him after his season was ended midway through 2006. McNabb parted with the team after the 2009 season so that Philadelphia could move forward with Kevin Kolb. When Kolb's debut was spoiled by injury, the team turned to McNabb's former backup, Michael Vick.
His success with his first team aside, McNabb may have a hard time finding a landing spot once again, even after the injury bug bites a roster or two. Mid-level to lower tier teams are leaning towards developing their own younger talent a bit earlier than expected if the starter should fall, especially if they do not see themselves as immediate contenders.
That said, Kerry Collins did enjoy a surprising comeback in 2008 despite being considered by many as "over the hill." Collins led the Titans to the 2008 AFC Divisional round after starter Vince Young suffered a mental breakdown after the season opener.
