New Orleans Saints backup QB battle intensified with addition of Luke McCown

The New Orleans Saints have agreed to a one-year contract with veteran quarterback Luke McCown after a try-out during the teams recent three day mini-camp.

McCown, originally a fourth round selection of the Cleveland Browns in 2004, has spent time as a back-up on the roster’s of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (2005-2008) and the Jacksonville Jaguars (2009-2011).

His career stats include nine starts with 184 completions (58.2% completion percentage) for 2,035 yards, 9 touchdowns, and 14 interceptions.

McCown was likely signed to add a veteran quarterback presence  into the competition for the number two spot behind Brees.

Chase Daniel has been running the offense in Brees’ place, who is holding out for a new long term deal.

Multiple news outlets have reported that the Saints have made a new larger contract offer to Brees, and the possibility exists — however small — that he could sign as soon as today.

Daniel has received mixed reviews on his performance thus far running the first-string offense, and while he has done some good things, it’s clear he is not on the level of his Pro Bowl counter part.

Sean Canfield, the Saints seventh round choice in the 2010 NFL Draft, is also in the mix.

There are similarities between Chase and Sean – Daniel has been bounced on and off the practice squad — so to was Canfield after spending most of the 2010 and 2011 season on the scout team with a few stints on the active roster.

In the off season last year Canfield battled with Daniel, and while it appeared close between the two for a few weeks, he eventually lost out as the Saints favored Daniel’s accuracy.

Canfield does have a bigger arm than Daniel, but at times has flashed questionable decision making during OTA’s.

But Sean has had some time to work with the Saints coaching staff on his deficiencies, and surely he is hopeful that this is the year he can break through onto the 53-man roster.

McCown cannot be overlooked now that has signed with the team. He brings game experience to the table that Canfiield and Daniel cannot, and he certainly possesses a live arm.

It’s now a three-way battle for the right to back-up Brees, at least Saints fans hope they are battling for the backup spot, and not the starting role.