Gerald McCoy’s Upcoming Contract Extension Won’t Be As Expensive As You May Think by Leo Howell

Jan 4, 2014; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Michael Vick (7) looks on as quarterback Nick Foles (9) warms up before the 2013 NFC wild card playoff football game against the New Orleans Saints at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have been on a constant quarterback carousel since the dawn of the franchise, never finding a consistent, reliable starter to last for a few years and lead the franchise to consistent success in the passing game. This past season was no different, as the team made a mid-season switch from Josh Freeman to Mike Glennon, and the latter didn’t do enough to be the unquestioned starter moving forward.

We’ve already learned from the general manager of the Buccaneers, Jason Licht, that adding a new QB will be expected this offseason. Now, according to a report, we know the name of one of the candidates the Buccaneers may seek.

Adam Schefter of ESPN has reported that the Buccaneers are expected to be interested in the services of former Falcons and Eagles quarterback Michael Vick.

Two teams likely to have some level of interest in Eagles free-agent-to-be QB Michael Vick: Buccaneers and Jets. — Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) February 2, 2014

Vick has been an incredibly productive quarterback over his career, but his availability has been inconsistent due to injuries. He’s only started 16 games once during his career, while starting 15 games on three occasions.

But the ability to produce from Vick is obvious. He has a powerful arm and is a dynamic athlete in and out of the pocket. Over the course of his career, he’s totaled 128 touchdowns through the air and 36 more on the ground. And he’s improved with age, as his passing was more efficient after his return to football with the Eagles.

That said, Vick is not a long term answer at quarterback, and his injury history is something to be concerned with. Bringing in Vick would provide an incredible level of competition for Mike Glennon, but should Vick win the job, it’s likely that Glennon would be pressed into action eventually, anyways.

Vick has never been the pinnacle of efficiency at quarterback, but his athleticism and arm strength help to make up for his lack of elite vision as a passer. He would be a very interesting addition for the Buccaneers, and would provide the highest level of competition available this offseason for Glennon.