Five NFC Quarterbacks With Something to Prove in 2013

Statistically, 2012 was quarterback Josh Freeman’s best season in the league; however he has still left the Tampa Bay Buccaneers with something to be desired.

In the middle of the season Freeman could seemingly do no wrong as he passed for a total of 2,014 yards, 17 touchdowns, and led his team to 5-2 record, the bottom fell out in the second half of the season.

In Weeks 12-17, the Buccaneers finished with a record of 1-5 and were outscored in those losses 147-80.

Additionally in the last six games of the season Freeman completed only 53 percent of 239 pass attempts while throwing six touchdowns in comparison to 10 interceptions.

I understand that the Buccaneers finished last in the league in 2012 in total passing yards allowed, and third from last in passing touchdowns allowed, so that Freeman is not total responsible for Tampa Bay’s poor play in the second half of the season.

However, the quarterback is the leader of a team’s offense and is one of the most scrutinized positions on the field.

Fair or not, Freeman is going to feel the brunt of frustration from Tampa Bay fans.

News around the league is that Freeman is not going to get a contract extension this offseason, fueling a growing debate on whether or not Freeman will return to Tampa Bay following the 2013 season.

Head coach Greg Schiano was quoted in an article published on ESPN.com as saying, “The one thing I do believe in is competition at every spot, including the quarterback, so I want to have as many good football players on our team as we can at every single position.”

This statement suggests that despite a 4,000-yard passing season in 2012 by Freeman, Schiano is not convinced that Freeman is the Buccaneers' franchise quarterback, and will do everything in his power to have a healthy quarterback competition in training camp.

This competition could either help Freeman step up and be consistent throughout the 2013 season or it could spell the end of his role as a starting quarterback and as a player for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.