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What is going on in the AFC South?
In one year, it looks like we've gone from...
Colts: Peyton Manning
Jaguars: David Garrard
Titans: Vince Young
Texans: Matt Schaub
...to pretty much a complete switch...
Colts: Kerry Collins
Jaguars: Luke McCown
Titans: Matt Hasselbeck
Texans: Matt Schaub
You might not be surprised by that list, except for the one listed for the Jaguars. According to Jay Glazer of FOX Sports, the Jaguars have informed Garrard that he has been released. Even though the team has rookie Blaine Gabbert on the roster, it looks like former Browns quarterback Luke McCown will replace him, for now.
You know what? Good for McCown. He was drafted by the Browns in the fourth round of the 2004 season. Yes, it was that long ago. He is entering his eighth season, and this is the first time in his NFL career that he will be an opening day starter. I have been quietly rooting for McCown to receive an opportunity to start because of how well he has done in the preseason the past few years and a couple of solid regular season starts that he has had. The Browns have had some of their former quarterbacks, such as Derek Anderson, start over the years, but I'd be willing to bet that not many people thought McCown would also get another shot.
The move also affects the Browns this season. Cleveland plays Jacksonville in Week 11, and we now know that Garrard won't be the starter (watch the Bengals come in and grab him now!). By that point in the season, Gabbert may have taken over the starting role if McCown hasn't led the Jaguars to an average record.