QBREES9

After 17 seasons with four NFL teams, quarterback Mark Brunell knows where he wants to be: with the New Orleans Saints

That's a desire rarely expressed by players for the nearly half century New Orleans has spent mired in professional sports' doldrums. But there isn't a trace of vacillation in Brunell's voice.
"I certainly would enjoy coming back, " he said. "From my perspective I think it's a good fit, and I just can't say enough about the team and the organization."
The question now, he readily admits, is about the organization's perspective.
Brunell, whose two-year, $3.8 million deal has come to an end, could become an unrestricted free agent this week, one of 10 such players on the Saints' roster. That means the team must break out that curious football abacus on which a player's worth is measured. Among the clicking beads: the price, age and experience of a three-time Pro Bowler whose 31,826 career passing yards ranks 26th all-time, and behind just Peyton Manning and Kerry Collins among active NFL signal callers.
Should calamity strike the Saints and quarterback Drew Brees be unable to go, someone has to play quarterback, and Brunell is something of a deluxe, albeit aging (he turns 40 in September) backup model. The Saints have been largely quiet on whether they see a long-term role for the team's No. 3 quarterback, Chase Daniel, who just finished his rookie season, and the team has been silent on its draft plans next month.
As a player with more than 10 years experience, the Saints must offer Brunell a minimum of $885,000 -- a figure that would represent a pay cut. Neither the Saints nor Brunell's agent seemed eager to divulge where things stand between the backup and the team at the moment. In Indianapolis last week for the NFL combine, Saints Coach Sean Payton praised Brunell's contributions but did not expound about the probability of his return.
"You know, we talked. I talked to Mark the other day, " Payton said. "That's going to be something that really weekly we'll stay in touch with him. You know, we've got time. But certainly he's been a huge addition for us and really a good sounding board for Drew."
Brunell made it clear he is just fine with the situation. That's one part of the perspective that comes from a long and successful NFL career.
"Oh, absolutely, I understand exactly what is going on, it's still early, " he said. "I'll be 40 next fall. I feel confident I can still play at this level. My whole focus at the moment is to be on the team next year, but we'll have to see."
Brunell also made it clear another part of his perspective is last season's glory. After spending his college career leading Washington, where the Huskies were expected to compete for a Rose Bowl berth every season, and then quarterbacking the Jacksonville Jaguars for a nine-year stretch in which they twice played in the AFC championship game, Brunell knows how youth fosters a belief that titles lie around every corner.
Not so with a veteran.
"I mean, I've said it before, but last season was a dream come true, " he said of winning Super Bowl XLIV. "What took place was very special, and it's a real blessing. What you realize over time is these opportunities are rare and sometimes hard to believe, so you have to savor every moment."
That was the advice he had for younger players such as Daniel, who earn a Super Bowl ring their first year in the NFL.
"I said, 'buddy, enjoy this. You may play another 10, 15 years and never see a moment like this again.' "
And so that is a bead on the player's abacus, one that clicks rather loudly.
"I think the city loved the fact we made it to the Super Bowl, but as far as the team was concerned, as far as that locker room was concerned, we were in it to win a championship, " Brunell said.

New Orleans Saints backup QB Mark Brunell hopes to remain with team | - NOLA.com

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D_it_up

One word: YOUNGER!

Definitely need to get YOUNGER at the back-up QB position. Brunell is a class-act, but I think they need to go in a different direction. If he comes back, I would hope he drops to 3rd string.

QBREES9

Agree !!! let him be the 3rd.

breesfan27

Move Chase Daniel to 2nd string and keep Brunell at holder for Hartley.

Euphoria

I definately think we better upgrade this position and bring in some youth to develop. I rather my 2nd string be used on the field when it doesn't call fro the 1st string to be out there over my 3rd string QB.

biloxi-indian

$822K/year as the holder for Hartley. Hmmmmnnn...where do I sign that deal?

If Chase does not have the ability to hold for Hartley...send him packing!

SaintPauly

I think it's time for Brunell to call it a day. He should retire, and take a job with the team, either as an assistant coach, or possibly in the front office. He turns 41 this year I believe. Don't be a Deberg, Brunell. Go out on a high note!

Choupique

I've noticed a trend. Many of you seem disloyal to the players that just won a super bowl for you.

I say if this trend continues those folks should have to move to MinnieSoooota or Indi.

Try to stay loyal to the men who just went to war for you and won... at least for a short time remain loyal to them.

Jah forbid Brees gets hurt, if so Brunell's experience won't be a bad thing. He sure is in synch with the kicker too.

You da man Brunell. I say we keep you and cut a few fans.

Apportez le bois. Deux cela. Qui est celui?

Saint_LB

Holding is an art-form. Have you ever seen a good holder "spin" the laces? Again...it's an art and not as easy as some may assume when you consider that every kicer has an exact angle that he prefers.

SmashMouth

I think you've got it there...

We were pretty sucky with him in there .... so yeah ... it's time for an upgrade.