Roster analysis: Quarterbacks

Beginning today, for the next nine days, I will take a quick look at the Bengals roster by position group and seek reader response to a related question.

Today: Quarterbacks

Starter: Carson Palmer

Backups: Ryan Fitzpatrick, Jeff Rowe

Palmer, in his fourth year as starter, set a single-season franchise record with 4,131 yards, but his touchdowns were down and interceptions up in 2007. His 20 interceptions tied for most in the NFL. Palmer took every snap, fortunately, for the Bengals. They let backup Doug Johnson go after the last preseason game and traded for Fitzpatrick. As long as Palmer is healthy, the Bengals are strong at quarterback and a competitive team.

It's estimated that 80 percent of the Palmer throws in 2007 that looked errant were indeed the responsibility of receivers running the incorrect route, even by a yard or two. The line protected the quick-thinking Palmer, who rarely holds onto the football too long, with a frachise single-season low 17 sacks. The team's receivers need to regain the route-running discipline that abandoned them too frequently this past season. A consistent run offense also would help.

Question: Do the Bengals need to shop in the offseason for a more qualified backup than Fitzpatrick?