ESPN NFL

Posted by ESPN.com’s Bill Williamson


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Denver Broncos: If Kyle Orton is unavailable, the situation is shaky. Chris Simms is the Broncos' backup. He is talented, but he is injury prone. He has thrown two passes since 2006 and he is currently injured. He might not be ready for the start of the regular season because of an ankle injury. But if Simms had to play, Denver could be fine. He is strong-armed and very bright. He appears to be a good fit for coach Josh McDaniels’ system.


Kansas City Chiefs: If Matt Cassel is unavailable their situation is unsettled. We may find out how it plays out soon. Cassel has a sprained knee and could miss the season opener. Brodie Croyle or Tyler Thigpen will start if Cassel can’t go. Croyle had a good training camp and preseason, and he seems to fit new coach Todd Haley’s system well. Thigpen finished last season as the starter. He is best suited for a spread offense and he isn’t a great fit for Haley’s system. But the scrambling Thigpen is a sparkplug and he always seems to be able to move the ball.


Oakland Raiders: If JaMarcus Russell is unavailable, their situation is solid. Jeff Garcia is a proven veteran quarterback who would give the Raiders a decent spark. Garcia is a great competitor and he knows how to win. Garcia has made it known he wants to play in Oakland. The Raiders are committed to Russell and will give him every chance to be the answer in Oakland. But if he gets hurt, Garcia can step right in and lead the team.


San Diego Chargers: If Philip Rivers is unavailable, their situation is very good. Billy Volek is an underrated player. If Rivers were hurt, Volek could lead this team. He is a smart, effective player. He helped win a playoff game in Indianapolis during the 2007 season. He is one of the better backups in the game, giving the Chargers one of the best quarterback situations in the league.