Westbrook could still be a valuable 3rd-down back.

by Kevin English

With T.O. off the market, Brian Westbrook becomes the last big-name free agent available.

But which uniform will the long-time Eagle be donning in 2010?

Let’s take a look at the teams that have openly expressed an interest in landing Westy:

St. Louis: The Rams are one of two teams that have come out and said that they’re interested in Westbrook’s services this offseason.  And just last week, HC Steve Spagnuolo noted that he was “hopeful” the 30-year-old would join his squad.  The move would make some sense, with a rookie QB and a quickly deteriorating RB in Steven Jackson headlining the offense.  Westbrook has said he wants to play for a contender, but with limited options available, he might not have a choice. 

Washington: Skins HC Mike Shanahan said last week the “door has not closed” with regards to signing Westbrook.  That’s really not a shocking development, considering Shanny has never “closed the door” on any RB.  While it’s hard to picture how he’d fit into their backfield puzzle, Westbrook would at least have a better shot at significant playing time in Washington than he would in St. Louis.  

Denver: The Broncos appeared set to enter 2010 with Knowshon Moreno and Correll Buckhalter atop their depth chart.  But after Moreno’s recent hamstring injury – that’ll force him out of 3 weeks of action – the Broncos might want some extra veteran insurance.   And as a quick, nimble back, Westbrook would be an ideal fit for Denver’s zone blocking scheme.  Just as long as he’s healthy.  

Here are a couple of other teams that I believe would improve by adding Westbrook to their roster:

Tennessee: The Titans have an obvious all-world runner in Chris Johnson.  But what about after him?  With unproven youngsters like Javon Ringer, LeGarrette Blount, and Stafon Johnson in the backfield mix, Westbrook would be a solid addition for the contending Titans.  The grizzled veteran could provide some veteran leadership as well.

New England: The Pats love taking a chance on experienced players.  From Corey Dillon in 2004, to Torry Holt this year, they’ve never been shy about taking a flyer on a guy that’s past his prime.  With an underwhelming backfield featuring Sammy Morris, Laurence Maroney, Kevin Faulk, and Fred Taylor, why not bring the former Villanova star to Foxborough?  If Westbrook checks out healthy, he could become a valuable asset in the Pats’ RB merry-go-round.

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