Falcons need the insurance Schaub provides

The Falcons think highly of Matt Schaub, but their reluctance to trade him might have more to do with concerns over Michael Vick, writes Len Pasquarelli.

Originally Published: March 17, 2006
By Len Pasquarelli | ESPN.com
ATLANTA -- The reluctance of the Atlanta Falcons to part with Matt Schaub in a trade that would net them three-time Pro Bowl defensive end John Abraham from the New York Jets speaks volumes about how club officials and the coaching staff regard the much-coveted backup quarterback.

But it says something, too, about the Falcons' concerns over Michael Vick, and we're not just talking about from a physical standpoint.

Certainly, the Falcons know that Vick has never played an entire 16-game season and that his reckless style and derring-do mind-set might preclude him from doing so. Owner Arthur Blank and president Rich McKay don't want to be caught short again at the quarterback spot, as they were when they were forced to use Doug Johnson as the starter in 2003, when Vick broke his ankle in a preseason game.


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