With growing speculation that Kevin Kolb will end up on a new team next season -- the Arizona Cardinals, Seattle Seahawks, San Francisco 49ers and Cleveland Browns have been mentioned -- third-string quarterback Mike Kafka says he's ready and willing to be No. 2 behind Michael Vick in Philadelphia.
Even more important, Eagles coach Andy Reid believes Kafka, after one NFL season in which he didn't throw a pass, has the ability to succeed in the second-string role if required, the *Philadelphia Inquirer* reported Wednesday.
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"I always have confidence in myself, but if coach says that, it's great," Kafka said at workouts attended by about 12 Eagles players Wednesday in Marlton, N.J. "I'm willing and waiting to take that next step to be that guy."
Other teams have taken notice. A source told the newspaper last month that the Eagles received trade offers for Kafka before the start of the NFL lockout.
Kafka, 23, helped Vick handle throwing duties during Wednesday's workout, and last year's NFL Comeback Player of the Year said the second-year pro has what it takes.
"If Kevin's not back then, I think, the backup role is a role that Mike Kafka embraces," Vick said. "I think he's ready for it. I think he's prepared himself well, and I think that will all translate on the field when it's all said and done. The thing (he) and I have a tendency to do -- like Kevin and I did -- is just talk through situations, talk through certain things."
Trade talk about Kolb, who lost his starting job to Vick last season, has dominated the NFL offseason. According to Reid, several teams have inquired about Kolb, who has started seven games in four NFL seasons and thrown for 2,082 yards and 11 touchdowns with 14 interceptions.
As for Kafka, this offseason -- in whatever form -- is about improving his game: "That second season is important to really solidify you mentally, physically and make sure you're firing on all cylinders."
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
