With 10 days left until the NFL Draft, Jason Campbell represents an intriguing option for teams that opt to pass on the top-tier quarterbacks. As such, his future seems to be tied closely to that of Jimmy Clausen.

Let’s discuss.

Campbell signed his $3.1 million restricted free agent tender with the Redskins Monday, opening the way for a trade that we know both sides want to get done. Two of the teams that make the most sense for Campbell — the Bills and Raiders — continue to remain popular destinations, but also appear to have this in common: An interest in Clausen.

The Bills, who hold the No. 9 overall pick, brought in Clausen for a visit over the weekend. It might be difficult for the Bills and quarterback specialist Chan Gailey to pass on Clausen given the unsettled situation with two holdovers from the previous coaching staff. Two of our football minds, Pat Kirwan and Gil Brandt, also believe the Raiders’ interest in Clausen is very real. Kirwan, for one, doesn’t believe JaMarcus Russell has done anything to change the Raiders’ opinion of him since he was benched last season.

The Raiders, who like the Bills have several pressing needs, such as left tackle, own the pick before them at No. 8.

It very well could be that if either the Bills or Raiders pass on Clausen, a deal for Campbell could be made during the draft. The availability of Campbell could factor into their first-round decision-making, as well. Popular opinion is that a third- or fourth-round pick will land Campbell, or a mid-round pick plus a floating pick based on performance in 2011.

Posted in: NFL Network  | comments  |