Chip Scoggins says that Vikings quarterback Joe Webb is still hoping to be given more time to show that he can be the long-term starter:
Drafted in the sixth round last season as a wide receiver, Webb showed enough potential in two starts at quarterback to earn an opportunity to compete at that position. Webb’s long-term future at quarterback still remains unclear, but the Vikings at least want to see more of him in that role.
But given the uncertainty surrounding Webb, the Vikings need to explore other avenues.
“I don’t pay attention to [draft speculation],” Webb said. “You’re going to hear what people say. But I can’t control the decisions the coaches and GM make. The only thing I can control is the way I perform on the field. As long as I keep performing to the best of my ability, everything will take care of itself.”
[. . .]
But injuries to Brett Favre and Tarvaris Jackson opened the door for Webb to start the final two games at quarterback and play in four games. Webb opened eyes with his strong performance in a 24-14 road victory against the Philadelphia Eagles. Webb completed eight of 11 passes for 124 yards after halftime, including a critical 19-yard completion to Percy Harvin on third-and-11 in the fourth quarter that kept a drive alive and eventually helped the Vikings extend their lead.
But Webb also struggled and looked raw in a season-ending loss to the Detroit Lions after a short week of preparation.
The final game was not a showcase for anyone wearing purple: the team was just playing out the string at that point. After the collapse of the Metrodome roof, the Vikings became a gypsy team, playing in whatever venue was available.
