Trent Dilfer threatened to retire rather than return to the Browns in 2006, despite inking a handsome four-year contract the year prior. The thought of subbing for Charlie Frye while enduring another year of Mo Carthon was just too much. Understandable, but watching his failed tenure in Cleveland unfold, I lost a lot of my respect for Dilfer.
Phil Savage salvaged a measly seventh-round pick and Ken Dorsey when he traded Dilfer back west. Now, with 49ers starter Alex Smith injured, possibly for the year, Dilfer is thrust back in the saddle after looking anemic coming off the bench last week. Now he’ll face the Baltimore Ravens. For that reason alone, I’ll be rooting for him. Fortunately, the game will be broadcast throughout Ohio following the Browns/New England contest, which also will be seen in more markets than usual.
Rooting for Dilfer, huh? I suppose it’s easier than pulling for Jeff Garcia, who utterly disgraced himself in Cleveland, but more conflicting than cheering on the Vikings’ Kelly Holcomb. (Tim Couch: out of the question.) Even if Smith goes on IR, I’d be surprised if the 35-year-old Dilfer lasts the rest of the year as the San Francisco starter. The Browns host the ‘Niners in the season finale.
Behind Dilfer on the depth chart is Shaun Hill, a six-year veteran who has yet to throw a pass in a regular season game. His QB rating this preseason was an atrocious 44.4. Look for a signing soon. And if Dilfer is healthy when it happens, look for him to gripe about it.
