Daunte Culpepper Wants to Be a Starter, Wasn't Interested in Backing Up Big Ben

I applaud Daunte Culpepper's rosy disposition, even if it's a tad misguided. Unfortunately, his plan to not take any ol' job that comes along, but instead hold out for a starting gig will, barring a catastrophic run on NFL quarterback injuries, result in him watching football this fall from the same vantage point as many of us: the comfort of the couch.

The Steelers, after losing backup Charlie Batch to a broken collarbone for the next two months, were looking for a capable arm behind Ben Roethlisberger. According to ESPN's John Clayton, they had settled on two guys, but ultimately settled on the one not named Daunte:

The reason the Steelers picked Leftwich over Culpepper is because Leftwich felt more comfortable with the role the Steelers were offering. Ben Roethlisberger is the starter and Batch is expected to be the backup when he gets healthy again. Culpepper was hoping for a chance to compete for a starting job.

You know, Culpepper's agent should explain to his client that he's really in no position to be making demands about playing time. Oh, wait...

On the other hand, if Culpepper isn't interested enough to return to football as a clipboard toter, I can respect that. I just hope he's willing to accept that he's effectively retired as a result of his stance.

Hat tip: PFT