Jake Delhomme's NFL career moves to Cleveland.
[Editor's Note: Since the publication of this story on Friday, March 12, quarterback Jake Delhomme agreed to terms on a contract with the Cleveland Browns. Delhomme, released two weeks ago by the Carolina Panthers, had been scheduled to meet with New Orleans Saints staff members about rejoining the team he began his NFL career with. Delhomme reportedly never made it to the Crescent City, pursuing instead the possibility of remaining a starting quarterback in the NFL.]
It would be a welcome homecoming for the Acadiana Who Dats, who have always had a difficult time rooting against native son Delhomme, who has been the starting quarterback for Saints' divisional rivals the Carolina Panthers for the past six seasons. The Breaux Bridge native and UL-Lafayette standout was recently "blindsided" by the team that he took to its first Super Bowl in 2004; The Panthers elected to cut Delhomme and move on with young upstart Matt Moore, despite still owing Jake more than $12 million in guaranteed money. Delhomme could now possibly return to the job he started with in the NFL - a backup QB with the New Orleans Saints (Delhomme was with the Saints from '97 - '02).
Most reports say Delhomme is looking for another starting job, something the Saints, with Super Bowl MVP Drew Brees, aren't in the market for. Delhomme also recently visited the Cleveland Browns. However, a chance to come home to Louisiana and join the defending Super Bowl champions, even in a backup role, could still be an attractive option. Here's what Saints Coach Sean Payton told the Times-Picayune:
"In his mind, I'm sure he's looking through his options, looking for a place he might be able to start, if that exists. And if that doesn't exist, there could be a lot of reasons for him to come back here."