Basanez Leaves Panther Den

Backup quarterbacks in the NFL are far more valuable than most fans could comprehend (how could we forget the sagas of Tom Brady and Matt Cassel?), and Brett Basanez could just be the next QB from the practice squad to get his shining moment. Basanez has been on the practice squad of the Carolina Panthers since he joined the league in 2006, and now the quarterback is actively taking steps to see the spotlight, making a surprise move this week to leave Carolina to join Lovie Smith and the Chicago Bears for the 2009 season.

Basanez has chosen to leave the Panthers’ practice squad and the shadow of Jake Delhomme to join Kyle Orton, Rex Grossman and Caleb Hanie as quarterback for the Bears. His chances of becoming a second string QB are better in Chicago, and perhaps the NFL could even see a bit more play time for the Northwestern alum. Basanez joined the NFL as an undrafted free agent for the Carolina Panthers in 2006. Before joining the pros, Basanez played at Northwestern and broke several of the team’s records, including passing yards (10,580), total offense (11,576), completions (913) and tied the record for touchdown passes (44). Will he get more action in Chicago? Only time will tell!

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