In the movie A Bronx Tale, Robert DeNiro informs his son, Calogero, that “there’s nothing worse (in life) than wasted talent.”
That line always seems to ring in my head when seeing Atlanta Falcon (www.atlantafalcons.com) quarterback Matt Schaub holding a clipboard on an NFL sideline.
Now as a restricted free agent, there is a possibility that the onetime Cavalier could finally toe the line as a starter.
 Though he rarely leaves the bench, former Cavalier Matt Schaub has become the NFL’s most notable reserve quarterback because of his play and because of the Falcons’ reluctance to trade him. |
“I am just looking for an opportunity to step on the field and play as a starter in this league and perform on a weekly basis,” says Schaub. “ I’ve had three years to grow and learn and observe Mike [Vick] and this league, as a whole, and now, I am excited, hopefully, to get a chance and play somewhere whether it be in Atlanta or somewhere else. I just want an opportunity and that’s all I can ask for.”
Schaub, the 27th pick of the third round in 2004, is free to sign a contract with another team. However, the Falcons have the ability to match that team’s offer or be compensated with draft picks or cash.
“There’s a lot of good football teams out there and I’d just like to be part of one,” says Schaub.
The former Virginia quarterback has spent the past three seasons as Vick’s understudy. During his time, Schaub has thrown for six touchdowns and as many interceptions in his reserve role, most recently in this season’s finale in Philadelphia. He’s become the league’s most notable reserve quarterback over the past 24 months because of his play and because of the Falcons’ reluctance to trade him due to Vick’s health and erratic play.
Now with the need for starting quarterbacks in such cities as Minneapolis and Oakland, it remains to be seen if Schaub stays in Atlanta and receives a higher task under recently named head coach Bobby Petrino.
“Well, we’re excited he’s a great offensive mind,” says Schaub of the head coach, who just led Louisville to a Big East title and win over Wake Forest in the Orange Bowl. “Great with quarterbacks, just look at his track record. He’s been in the NFL before and produced a good offense in Jacksonville. Since he’s been at Louisville, he’s been a proven winner.”
Otherwise, where might Schaub go? Is this the off-season that Schaub looks out for himself and a potential career above all else?
“Yeah I think so,” he says. “Having three good years under my belt, I think it is time I do get an opportunity. I’m ready for that opportunity wherever it might be to get out on that field and play.”
Wasted talent?
“I’m not going to sit here and say all the things I can and cannot do or that I am going to do because it’s not played out yet. I just want the opportunity to go out, be the quarterback and lead my team and lead a group of men on the practice field and then on the game field and show what I can do week in and week out.”
Wes McElroy hosts “The Final Round” on ESPN 840. Monday-Friday 3pm-5pm.
