SB Nation - Alex Shor

Arizona Cardinals Training Camp Coverage: Beanie Wells Ankle and Matt Leinart vs. Brian St Pierre

Hawkwind — Mon, 03 Aug 2009 13:11:24 -0000

4 months ago: Arizona Cardinals first-round draft pick Beanie Wells works out during an NFL football training camp Sunday, Aug. 2, 2009, in Flagstaff, Ariz. (AP Photo/Matt York)

Browse more photos »

The Arizona Cardinals had quite an eventful first weekend of training camp. Not only was the club having to deal with record crowds, they signed their first round pick and then promptly carted him off the field during his first practice. The ankle injury doesn't appear serious but the details are explained below. The Cardinals also had to cut tight end Alex Shor to make room for Wells after the signing become official. The team will be busy this week will eight practices in the next five days with two-a-days today, Wednesday and Friday, including a big night practice at Lumberjack Stadium on Wednesday.

Chris Wells Ankle Injury: So we all know that Beanie got carted off the practice field but the injury doesn't appear to be very serious. After getting the results from the MRI, Coach Whisenhunt said that it didn't appear serious but he also didn't give a timetable for his return. Some speculation is that he could miss most of this week and that the coaching staff will be very conservative with his return so that this won't turn into a lingering injury. If you're looking for a silver lining, no one has reported this as a "high ankle sprain" which, as we saw last year with Antrel Rolle, can cost a player nearly off of camp. We'll keep an eye on Beanie, but for now I'd imagine that he be firmly implanted on a stationary bike. The biggest question is how much farther does this set Beanie back after missing all of OTA's.

The Battle for the Backup QB Job: I'm sure that when Matt Leinart was drafted with the tenth overall pick just three years ago he didn't envision himself battling for the backup QB job with a 29 year old guy who had never completed an NFL pass, but that's where he stands right now. While most still don't consider this a competition, Whisenhunt did say that the two quarterbacks will rotate in and out with the second team. We speculated last year that Whiz enjoyed playing head games with Leinart in order to mentally stronger and he seems to be taking the same approach this year.

Other notes from the weekend practices:

Bryant McFadden turned some heads with his physical play at corner. Depsite being matched up on the Cards' most physical wide reciever (Anquan Boldin), McFadden more than held his own.
Herman Johnson continues to practice at right tackle while Brandon Keith is at right guard. There hasn't been any change in the starting lineups yet but it's pretty apparent that the biggest question mark on the line is at backup center.
Cody Brown, rookie outside linebacker, has more than held his own during individual drills against the offensive line. Hopefully those pass rushing skills translate to game time.
There might already be cause for concern at fullback where Dan Kreider and Justin Green are sidelined with injuries. Kreider is nursing a sore hamstring but isn't expected to miss much time while Green has been sent back to the Valley for tests on his damange knee. The severity of that injury does not look promising. When asked about their status though, Whiz commented that the fullbacks don't get many reps in practice anyways.

Arizona Cardinals Pre-Training Camp Roster Projections: Tight End

Hawkwind — Thu, 23 Jul 2009 14:16:50 -0000

More photos » by Matt Slocum - AP

Cardinals' fan were hopeful that Ben Patrick's spectacular catch in the Super Bowl would help him cement him as the future starter but a four game suspension has derailed those plans for now. (AP Photo/Matt Slocum)

Browse more photos »

With the projections of the offensive line complete (you can check out previous projections here), we move on to the most questionable position group on the Arizona Cardinals' roster: tight ends. Last year four different players would start multiple games at the tight end for the Cardinals and they enter training camp without a clear cut starter or even a front runner. Three of the four guys previously mentioned return this year, with Jerame Tuman being the only exception, and the team did bring in a couple new faces in an attempt to breed some competition and sustain some level of effectiveness. It'll likely be towards the end of camp before we have any kind of clarity at this position but we'll try to wade through the possibilities.

Locks

Stephen Spach, Ben Patrick

On the Bubble

Leonard Pope, Anthony Becht, Dominique Byrd, Alex Shor

It might seem weird that the two guys who might not even be able to start the season with the club are considered locks but hear me out. Spach became the best tight end on the roster almost as soon as he was signed last year and there's not much of a reason to think that he can't return to that level once he's fully healed, even if it means starting the season on the PUP list. He's been adamant that he'll be ready by the start of training camp but eight months is a quick turnaround from an ACL injury. My thought process on Patrick, who will miss the first four games of the season due to a suspension, is that if the team were going to cut him, they would have already made the move. The team knew about his upcoming suspension when they tendered him this off season so it wouldn't make a great deal of sense to turn around and cut him after camp. He's the best receiving tight end on the roster by far, with possibly Byrd being the only exception. The next four guys we'll hit after the jump but just for the record, only Alex Shor is eligible for the practice squad.

Leonard Pope: Pope, a third round pick in 2006, has never quite lived up to expectations although he showed some promise in 2007 when he caught five touchdowns balls. Last season was supposed to be a breakout year for the 6' 8" tight end but injuries and inconsistency limited him to just nine receptions in eight starts. His height, once thought to make him a great red zone threat, has never materialized into a weapon and instead has kept him from becoming much of a force in either run blocking or pass protection. Despite his struggles though Pope did start the most games at tight end for the Cardinals last season and with question marks surrounding the health of Spach and Patrick's unavaliability, the door is open for Pope to finally play up to his potentional. Either way though the four year pro is in the midst of a make-or-break season.

Anthony Becht: Becht has two assets that might just set him apart from every other tight end in this group. He's extremely durable and he's a very good blocker. The last time this former first round pick missed a game due to injury, Ken Whisenhunt was his tight end coach (2000) and since then he's gone on to play in 136 consecutive games. As a blocker, Becht is almost a third offensive tackle and that's the primary reason why the soon to be 32 year old is still in the league. He doesn't offer much as a reciever but that doesn't mean that his hands are terrible. He's capable of catching the ball just don't expect him to become a threat to stretch the field or run away from defenders (as evidence by his yards per reception of 8.1). Regardless of his limitations though, with the emphasis that Whisenhunt places on blocking, some consider Becht to be the favorite heading into training camp.

Dominique Byrd: The signing of Byrd seemingly came out of the blue. The front office and scouting department went to USC's pro day and Byrd just happen to be there working out in hopes of resurrecting his defunct NFL career. The former third round pick, also in 2006, lasted just two seasons with the St. Louis Rams before they grew tired of his lack of desire or work ethic. Apparently a year outside of the league has Byrd looking like a changed man though and he's spent the off season working out with Larry Fitzgerald. Byrd has always been a decent threat in the passing game and with Patrick out for the first four games, Byrd might just get a shot at proving he can still play. He'll have to prove to Whisenhunt that he can hold his own in the running game and pass protection though.

Alex Shor: Shor, despite being in the organization since 2006, is still an unkown. He was signed after being undrafted in 2006 but didn't make the team or practice squad that season. He was resigned after the 2006 season and spent the 2007 summer playing in NFL Europe (played in nine games with one start). He was again cut during training camp and didn't find his way back to the practice squad until the week of the regular season finale. Shor repeated the same cycle during training camp although he did spend the entire 2008 season on the practice squad. On one hand you'd think that he's well thought of by the coaching staff because they keep bringing him back every year. At the same time though you've got to wonder why the team felt more comfortable bringing in a newcomer (Spach) last year instead of calling up a guy who already knew the offense. To his credit, Shor is thought of as an above average blocker.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

If there is one thing that stands out, it should be that the Cardinals have options at tight end. With five experienced veterans and a sixth player very familiar with the system, you'd have to think that the team can find some combination of players that will resemble an effective unit. It'll be interesting to see who is left standing once the dust settles in mid to late August. Who do you think will make the final roster? Will Spach start the season on the PUP list? Will the Cardinals carry three or four tight ends?

NFC West Roundtable: Tight End

John Morgan — Fri, 05 Jun 2009 20:26:32 -0000

More photos » by Ted S. Warren - AP

This picture has nothing to to with John Carlson, but look! Novelty!

Browse more photos »

In which I tap into my inner Robert and gush about John Carlson.

Seattle Seahawks
Blogger: John Morgan

Combining age, health, production, support skills and cost it’s tempting to award Seattle and "A"— ah hell I’ll do it. Why is John Carlson and truly just John Carlson worth an "A"?

He’s 25 (as of May 12) at a position that tends to decline after age 29. That means he has more productive seasons ahead of him than almost any other tight end of his capability.

He was healthy his rookie season and has no outstanding health concerns.

As part of a totally failed pass offense that lacked weapons of any kind before Deion Branch’s late season resurgence, Carlson was not only productive, catching 55 passes for 627 yards and five touchdowns, but important, Seattle’s leading receiver by receptions, yards, touchdowns, and efficient. It’s the efficiency that’s so remarkable. On an offense that couldn’t produce, Carlson did. Passes targeting Carlson were worth 143 DYAR, 9th best among all tight ends. He produced with three different quarterbacks, one named Charlie Frye. He produced when NFL teams adjusted to the Seahawks’ only weapon, assigning safeties to stop him and linebackers to bracket him. He produced like a top veteran at a position that’s famously tough on rookies.

Carlson isn’t a great pass blocker, but he’s developing. He’s already a pretty good run blocker and relative to his more-slot-receiver-than-tight-

end contemporaries, an excellent run blocker. He’s a hard worker with a pronounced competitive streak. He’ll work and he’ll improve.

Despite all that, he’s not yet as on-field valuable as the truly elite at his position: Jason Witten, Tony Gonzalez, Antonio Gates, Kellen Winslow and Chris Cooley, but he has a substantial off-field advantage. Carlson cost Seattle $770,000 against the cap in 2008. His four-year contract is worth only $4.52 million. That means he will cost Seattle less in four years than Gonzalez or Winslow cost in 2008, and has less remaining through 2011 than Vernon Davis will make in 2009 alone.

So it’s a qualified "A", yes, and behind Carlson is only a blocking tight end, John Owens, potential, Cameron Morrah, and busted potential, Joe Newton, but Carlson, like Heath Miller in 2008, Brandon Jacobs in 2007 and Bob Sanders in 2006, is the kind of low cost/high value talent that defines "Championship Caliber".

Grade: A

San Francisco 49ers
Blogger: Fooch

The 49ers tight ends have created great frustration for 49ers fans for much of this decade. Lately, this frustration has come in the form of Vernon Davis. Davis is a physically gifted athlete. There are few athletes in the NFL that combine his speed and size. Of course, few athletes share his ability to talk smack while not producing at the level you'd expect from said talk.

A lot of fans have written off Vernon Davis as a loudmouth, over-hyped workout warrior. I can understand this viewpoint, but I remain convinced that Davis is a unique weapon that is essential for the 49ers future success. Although Davis has great speed and size, he often struggles to make plays on deeper routes. I remain convinced that he can be most effective in plays where the QB gets the ball in his hands as soon after the snap as possible. This is a man you can line up anywhere on the field, from TE to WR to RB and utilize his speed and size to make plays. When he's used in swing passes, screens or even reverses, he has made things happen.

I gave the 49ers a C in large part because Vernon Davis has at times been able to capitalize on the mountain of potential. In 2007, his second season, Davis finished 4th among NFC tight ends in receptions and sixth in yards. However, more than that is his blocking ability. He's pointed to as one of the best blocking tight ends in the game and he's actually said he felt he could be a Pro Bowl offensive tackle if he put on some weight. And while, those outside the 49ers flock might write that off as continued smack talk, I can tell you he's probably correct.

This past season saw him held back to block significantly more than his first two seasons in part because of the Martz offense's proclivity to give up sacks. Since the hiring of Jimmy Raye, the talk has been of using Davis in a more traditional receiving tight end role. Raye worked extensively with Tony Gonzalez in Kansas City and so it will be interesting to see how he utilizes Davis in 2009. I can guarantee you that at least Davis's receiving numbers will go up across the board. If the 49ers can properly utilize his rare physical gifts, he will be a very solid threat on offense.

The primary backup to Davis has been Delanie Walker. Walker is a wide receiver converted to tight end. He's got some solid hands, but has never quite reached the next level outside of the preseason. Aside from having a cult following, Walker's biggest claim to fame is that he's one of the few (if only) tight ends utilized on kick returns. Allen Rossum is the 49ers primary return man, but when he went down with an injury, Walker got a lot of time as a kick returner. Although injury forced it, Walker has a good deal of speed for a tight end and thus was not the worst choice in the world. However, in terms of the offense, his blocking is limited and thus he does not get as much of an opportunity as he might otherwise see.

The 49ers drafted Bear Pascoe out of Fresno State in the sixth round this year to replace blocking tight end Billy Bajema. It didn't take long for the cowboy (he actually participates in rodeos!) to gain a big fan following among 49ers fans. As a sixth round pick there's certainly a reason he was passed on by so many teams. As the replacement for Bajema, I'd imagine his primary task this year will be in the run game. However, he might turn into an upgrade over Bajema in the receiving game. Bajema had two receptions last season, which was two more than the previous two seasons combined. When Bajema was on the field, it was safe to cheat off him as a defender. Bear appeared to be a solid receiver at Fresno State, so hopefully he can keep defenders a little more honest.

Turf Show Times
Blogger: VanRam

With the coaching situation and the offense finally looking like they'll have some much needed stability, the Rams are counting on Randy McMichael to regain 60+ reception ability this season. He was sorely missed last season, leaving in week four with a broken leg. In the seasons prior to that, he was utilized more as a blocker - an area where he's "good enough" - to help compensate for the sorry state of the offensive line. He's also, officially, the team's most experienced receiver, revealing just how much the team will be counting on him. The new West Coast play book will have plenty of seam routes for McMichael and used to create mismatches in the middle on plays that use the speedy receivers like Donnie Avery to stretch the field and keep safeties honest. We know McMichael has the ability to be a useful 60 reception guy, but, needless to say, he has to stay healthy, something you can't take for granted with a TE entering his age-30 year. He is now practicing at full speed, with no limitations, but the hitting has yet to begin.

If McMichael does succumb to injury, the next receiving TE on the Rams depth chart is the 6'4" 270 lbs Cal-Davis product Daniel Fells, a mid-season pick up from the Tampa Bay practice squad. Fells flashed some potential during the 2008 season, but has really impressed with his hands in practice. Fells still has to answer charges that he doesn't play physical enough. His spot is by no means guaranteed, but he does seem to have leaped over 2006 second round pick Joe Klopfenstein, a fan icon for lost draft picks and a guy who probably won't be on the team come September.

Third on the depth chart at TE is blocking specialist Billy Bajema, signed away from the 49ers as a free agent this spring to be younger version of last year's free agent blocking TE Anthony Becht...who's now with the Cardinals in what surely must be the league's most incestuous division for tight ends.

I'm giving this unit a B. We know that McMichael is capable of being among the best of that group of TEs just below the elite guys that even the novices in your fantasy league know of. With an improved offensive line he'll get to do what he does best more often, while the other guys fill the roles.

Arizona Cardinals
Blogger: cgolden

After struggling to find an adequate and healthy starter last year, the Cardinals seem to be taking the Jon Gruden QB approach, with their tight ends this off season. During last season four different players started multiple games at tight end for the Cardinals, Ben Patrick, Leonard Pope, Jerame Tuman and Stephen Spach. If you could summarize the talent at tight end last season in one sentance, it would be that the team signed a guy off the streets in October who became far and away the best guy on the depth chart in less than three weeks. Head coach Ken Whisenhunt, a former tight end himself, brought in two more tight ends this off season although surprisingly they didn't select one in the draft.

The current depth chart is without a star but there's more than a handful of warm bodies. Stephen Spach would have to enter camp as the early favorite to win the starting job, if he's fully healed from a torn ACL in the playoff game against the Panthers. Spach was signed mid-season and almost instantly shot to the top of the depth chart thanks to injuries and his steady play. He's not a great blocker or a great receiver but he does both adequetely, which is more than anyone else could say last year. The other two returning 'part-time' starters Ben Patrick and Leonard Pope will have to prove they can stay healthy before much is expected out of either. Patrick is the best receiver of the bunch (only TE with double digit receptions) and he's probably still got the highest ceiling of any returning tight ends, but the former 7th round pick will have to improve in the running game before Whiz warms up to his game. Leonard Pope is the one of the most aggravating players on the roster and plenty consider this a make or break year for the three year vet. After showing some promise down the stretch in 2007, Pope struggled to stay healthy or effective in 2008. His heighth (6'8) hasn't helped him become the red zone threat that most envisioned and it makes him almost a complete liability as a blocker. His propensity for false starts is equally frustrating. The final returning player, Alex Shor, is a career practice squad guy who's considered a long shot, at best, to make the roster. When the organization chose to sign a free agent in the middle of the season instead of 'call up' Shor, it was a pretty clear sign that they're not overly hopeful about his abilities.

The two additions to the roster, Anthony Becht and Dominique Byrd, are both former Rams. At 280 pounds, Becht is essentially a third offensive tackle but considering Whiz's desire for a running game, some consider Becht the favorite to win the starting job. Byrd is a former third round pick in 2006 who was underwhelming to say the least in St. Louis and didn't win over many fans or coaches with his desire or work ethic. Still though the Cardinals saw something that they liked when he showed up at USC's pro day this spring and he's got a shot to make the team.

All in all the Cardinals are throwing mud against the wall and hoping that something will stick. Maybe someone will stay healthy and provide some decent production or maybe we'll be scouring the free agent cast offs come mid season. Grade: D

NFC West Position-by-Position: Tight Ends

Hawkwind — Fri, 05 Jun 2009 16:02:57 -0000

More photos » by Ross D. Franklin - AP

6 months ago: Arizona Cardinals' Anthony Becht makes a catch during practice at Cardinals mini-camp at Cardinals' training facility, Tuesday, June 2, 2009, in Tempe, Ariz. (AP Photo/Ross D. Franklin)

Browse more photos »

Our last installment the NFC West position by position analysis covered one of, if not the best, positions groups on the roster so perhaps it's only logical that we follow that up with covering one of the weakest positions on the Arizona Cardinals roster. The tight end position has been anything but a strength for this team and we enter the 2009 season with just as many question marks as answers, but how does the rest of the position look?

Arizona Cardinals

After struggling to find an adequate and healthy starter last year, the Cardinals seem to be taking the Jon Gruden QB approach, with their tight ends this off season. During last season four different players started multiple games at tight end for the Cardinals, Ben Patrick, Leonard Pope, Jerame Tuman and Stephen Spach. If you could summarize the talent at tight end last season in one sentence, it would be that the team signed a guy off the streets in October who became far and away the best guy on the depth chart in less than three weeks. Head coach Ken Whisenhunt, a former tight end himself, brought in two more tight ends this off season although surprisingly they didn't select one in the draft.

The current depth chart is without a star but there's more than a handful of warm bodies. Stephen Spach would have to enter camp as the early favorite to win the starting job, if he's fully healed from a torn ACL in the playoff game against the Panthers. Spach was signed mid-season and almost instantly shot to the top of the depth chart thanks to injuries and his steady play. He's not a great blocker or a great receiver but he does both adequately, which is more than anyone else could say last year. The other two returning 'part-time' starters Ben Patrick and Leonard Pope will have to prove they can stay healthy before much is expected out of either. Patrick is the best receiver of the bunch (only TE with double digit receptions) and he's probably still got the highest ceiling of any returning tight ends, but the former 7th round pick will have to improve in the running game before Whiz warms up to his game. Leonard Pope is the one of the most aggravating players on the roster and plenty consider this a make or break year for the three year vet. After showing some promise down the stretch in 2007, Pope struggled to stay healthy or effective in 2008. His height (6'8) hasn't helped him become the red zone threat that most envisioned and it makes him almost a complete liability as a blocker. His propensity for false starts is equally frustrating. The final returning player, Alex Shor, is a career practice squad guy who's considered a long shot, at best, to make the roster. When the organization chose to sign a free agent in the middle of the season instead of 'call up' Shor, it was a pretty clear sign that they're not overly hopeful about his abilities.

The two additions to the roster, Anthony Becht and Dominique Byrd, are both former Rams. At 280 pounds, Becht is essentially a third offensive tackle but considering Whiz's desire for a running game, some consider Becht the favorite to win the starting job. Byrd is a former third round pick in 2006 who was underwhelming to say the least in St. Louis and didn't win over many fans or coaches with his desire or work ethic. Still though the Cardinals saw something that they liked when he showed up at USC's pro day this spring and he's got a shot to make the team.

All in all the Cardinals are throwing mud against the wall and hoping that something will stick. Maybe someone will stay healthy and provide some decent production or maybe we'll be scouring the free agent cast offs come mid season. Grade: D

San Francisco 49ers - Niners Nation

The 49ers tight ends have created great frustration for 49ers fans for much of this decade. Lately, this frustration has come in the form of Vernon Davis. Davis is a physically gifted athlete. There are few athletes in the NFL that combine his speed and size. Of course, few athletes share his ability to talk smack while not producing at the level you'd expect from said talk.

A lot of fans have written off Vernon Davis as a loudmouth, over-hyped workout warrior. I can understand this viewpoint, but I remain convinced that Davis is a unique weapon that is essential for the 49ers future success. Although Davis has great speed and size, he often struggles to make plays on deeper routes. I remain convinced that he can be most effective in plays where the QB gets the ball in his hands as soon after the snap as possible. This is a man you can line up anywhere on the field, from TE to WR to RB and utilize his speed and size to make plays. When he's used in swing passes, screens or even reverses, he has made things happen.

I gave the 49ers a C in large part because Vernon Davis has at times been able to capitalize on the mountain of potential. In 2007, his second season, Davis finished 4th among NFC tight ends in receptions and sixth in yards. However, more than that is his blocking ability. He's pointed to as one of the best blocking tight ends in the game and he's actually said he felt he could be a Pro Bowl offensive tackle if he put on some weight. And while, those outside the 49ers flock might write that off as continued smack talk, I can tell you he's probably correct.

This past season saw him held back to block significantly more than his first two seasons in part because of the Martz offense's proclivity to give up sacks. Since the hiring of Jimmy Raye, the talk has been of using Davis in a more traditional receiving tight end role. Raye worked extensively with Tony Gonzalez in Kansas City and so it will be interesting to see how he utilizes Davis in 2009. I can guarantee you that at least Davis's receiving numbers will go up across the board. If the 49ers can properly utilize his rare physical gifts, he will be a very solid threat on offense.

The primary backup to Davis has been Delanie Walker. Walker is a wide receiver converted to tight end. He's got some solid hands, but has never quite reached the next level outside of the preseason. Aside from having a cult following, Walker's biggest claim to fame is that he's one of the few (if only) tight ends utilized on kick returns. Allen Rossum is the 49ers primary return man, but when he went down with an injury, Walker got a lot of time as a kick returner. Although injury forced it, Walker has a good deal of speed for a tight end and thus was not the worst choice in the world. However, in terms of the offense, his blocking is limited and thus he does not get as much of an opportunity as he might otherwise see.

The 49ers drafted Bear Pascoe out of Fresno State in the sixth round this year to replace blocking tight end Billy Bajema. It didn't take long for the cowboy (he actually participates in rodeos!) to gain a big fan following among 49ers fans. As a sixth round pick there's certainly a reason he was passed on by so many teams. As the replacement for Bajema, I'd imagine his primary task this year will be in the run game. However, he might turn into an upgrade over Bajema in the receiving game. Bajema had two receptions last season, which was two more than the previous two seasons combined. When Bajema was on the field, it was safe to cheat off him as a defender. Bear appeared to be a solid receiver at Fresno State, so hopefully he can keep defenders a little more honest.

Grade C

St. Louis Rams - Turf Show Times

With the coaching situation and the offense finally looking like they'll have some much needed stability, the Rams are counting on Randy McMichael to regain 60+ reception ability this season. He was sorely missed last season, leaving in week four with a broken leg. In the seasons prior to that, he was utilized more as a blocker - an area where he's "good enough" - to help compensate for the sorry state of the offensive line. He's also, officially, the team's most experienced receiver, revealing just how much the team will be counting on him. The new West Coast play book will have plenty of seam routes for McMichael and used to create mismatches in the middle on plays that use the speedy receivers like Donnie Avery to stretch the field and keep safeties honest. We know McMichael has the ability to be a useful 60 reception guy, but, needless to say, he has to stay healthy, something you can't take for granted with a TE entering his age-30 year. He is now practicing at full speed, with no limitations, but the hitting has yet to begin.

If McMichael does succumb to injury, the next receiving TE on the Rams depth chart is the 6'4" 270 lbs Cal-Davis product Daniel Fells, a mid-season pick up from the Tampa Bay practice squad. Fells flashed some potential during the 2008 season, but has really impressed with his hands in practice. Fells still has to answer charges that he doesn't play physical enough. His spot is by no means guaranteed, but he does seem to have leaped over 2006 second round pick Joe Klopfenstein, a fan icon for lost draft picks and a guy who probably won't be on the team come September.

Third on the depth chart at TE is blocking specialist Billy Bajema, signed away from the 49ers as a free agent this spring to be younger version of last year's free agent blocking TE Anthony Becht...who's now with the Cardinals in what surely must be the league's most incestuous division for tight ends.

I'm giving this unit a B. We know that McMichael is capable of being among the best of that group of TEs just below the elite guys that even the novices in your fantasy league know of. With an improved offensive line he'll get to do what he does best more often, while the other guys fill the roles.

Seattle Seahawks - Field Gulls

Combining age, health, production, support skills and cost it's tempting to award Seattle and "A"- ah hell I'll do it. Why is John Carlson and truly just John Carlson worth an "A"?

He's 25 (as of May 12) at a position that tends to decline after age 29. That means he has more productive seasons ahead of him than almost any other tight end of his capability.

He was healthy his rookie season and has no outstanding health concerns.

As part of a totally failed pass offense that lacked weapons of any kind before Deion Branch's late season resurgence, Carlson was not only productive, catching 55 passes for 627 yards and five touchdowns, but important, Seattle's leading receiver by receptions, yards, touchdowns, and efficient. It's the efficiency that's so remarkable. On an offense that couldn't produce, Carlson did. Passes targeting Carlson were worth 143 DYAR, 9th best among all tight ends. He produced with three different quarterbacks, one named Charlie Frye. He produced when NFL teams adjusted to the Seahawks' only weapon, assigning safeties to stop him and linebackers to bracket him. He produced like a top veteran at a position that's famously tough on rookies.

Carlson isn't a great pass blocker, but he's developing. He's already a pretty good run blocker and relative to his more-slot-receiver-than-tight-end contemporaries, an excellent run blocker. He's a hard worker with a pronounced competitive streak. He'll work and he'll improve.

Despite all that, he's not yet as on-field valuable as the truly elite at his position: Jason Witten, Tony Gonzalez, Antonio Gates, Kellen Winslow and Chris Cooley, but he has a substantial off-field advantage. Carlson cost Seattle $770,000 against the cap in 2008. His four-year contract is worth only $4.52 million. That means he will cost Seattle less in four years than Gonzalez or Winslow cost in 2008, and has less remaining through 2011 than Vernon Davis will make in 2009 alone.

So it's a qualified "A", yes, and behind Carlson is only a blocking tight end, John Owens, potential, Cameron Morrah, and busted potential, Joe Newton, but Carlson, like Heath Miller in 2008, Brandon Jacobs in 2007 and Bob Sanders in 2006, is the kind of low cost/high value talent that defines "Championship Caliber".

Grade: A

Ranking the top and bottom of the division were relatively easy but the middle two caused some debate:

Seahawks
49ers
Rams
Cardinals

--------------------------------------------------------------------------

So what do you guys think? How would you rank the division? Just for kicks, how many tight ends will start at least one game for the Cardinals?

Poll

How many tight ends will start at least one game for the Cardinals?

One

2 votes

Two

40 votes

Three

114 votes

Four

39 votes

Five

10 votes

I can't even count that high

29 votes

234 votes | Poll has closed

Arizona Cardinals News: Looking Ahead to the 2010 Off Season (Part II)

Hawkwind — Tue, 02 Jun 2009 15:12:05 -0000

More photos » by Matt York - AP

6 months ago: Arizona Cardinals' Leonard Pope, left, and Alex Shor, right, run blocking drills during the Cardinals mini-camp Monday, June 1, 2009 at the Cardinals' training facility in Tempe, Ariz. (AP Photo/Matt York)

Browse more photos »

We took a look at the defensive free agents for the Arizona Cardinals last week and today we bring you the 2010 offensive free agents. The list is headlined by starting left tackle, Mike Gandy but is also includes some other important starters, as well as numerous guys who provide quality depth.

As we said last week, we should also mention that some of the younger guys will be effected by the status of the CBA next summer. One of the stipulations of the uncapped year will be a change in unrestricted status: currently players can be unrestricted free agents after their fouth season; next year players cannot achieve that unless they've accrued six years. For guys like Gabe Watson, Leonard Pope and Duece Lutui, that could be the difference between free agent freedom or another year under the control of the Cardinals. With that being said, lets take a look at the possible free agents on the offensive side of the ball for next summer......

Mike Gandy: I think the Cardinals got much more out of Gandy than they ever expected when they signed him three years ago. He was primarily a guard who had some experience playing tackle but the Cardinals needed a left tackle. In the past two seasons he's stepped in and performed admirably, outside of the Super Bowl, while facing the best pass rushers that the league had to offer. Gandy will be 31 years old next summer and if Whiz learned anything from his days in Pittsburgh, we will probably be watching the last season of Gandy in a Cardinals uniform this fall.

Brian St. Pierre: I imagine that St. Pierre signed a one year deal this off season with one thought in mind: second string QB or bust. He's been buried on a depth chart for his entire career and has never really put up a fight for a backup job but he's looking to change that during training camp. According to multiple reports, St. Pierre re-signed with the Cardinals under the stipulation that he'd be given an honest chance at winning the backup job from Matt Leinart. I'm sure his interest in returning to the Cardinals next summer will depend a great deal on how that battle turns out.
Sean Morey: Morey made one of the most memorable plays in Cardinals' history when he blocked a punt in overtime win a game over the hated Cowboys. That play and his stellar work throughout the rest of the season earned him his first Pro Bowl nod. Morey's the definition of a 'Whisenhunt guy' but his age (will turn 34 next February) and a solid group of young special team standouts, will likely keep the Cardinals from retaining him.
Anthony Becht: Becht was signed this summer in an effort to find a tight end who could stay healthy and somewhat productive this season. He's huge tight end (6'5 280) who basically serves as a third offensive tackle, but if he can stay healthy he could establish himself as the team's best tight end. His age (soon to be 32), might ensure that his one year deal is the only year that he wears a Cardinals' uniform, but at this position you just never konw.
Dan Kreider: Kreider's another former Steeler that Whiz brought in and he should serve as the traditional, bull-dozing full back this season. If he can stay healthy, he should be as productive as Terrelle Smith was last season, but he's probably a one year stop-gap considering that he'll turn 33 next March.
Jerheme Urban: Urban had a career year in 2008 and he should be in store for another similar season, if he can hold off Early Doucet for the fourth receiver's job. Urban will likely be looking for more money and a more playing time than the Cardinals are willing to offer, but his chances of re-signing could increase if Boldin is traded next off season. In all likelihood though, Urban will get much better offers on the open market.

Restricted Free Agents and/or Guys who will be Effected by the CBA:

Deuce Lutui: Lutui should be entering his first year as an unrestricted free agent but unless something changes in the next 10 months, he'll fall into the 'restricted' class for another two seasons. He's been a 'hot-button' starter over the past couple of seasons and plenty of fans are still calling for his job and it's likely that he'll have to fight for the job during camp. Given that he's under the control of the team, he'll be back whether or not he's the starter in 2009.
Leonard Pope: Pope went through his season of 'restricted' free agency this off season but unless the CBA changes, he'll be restricted for one more season next summer. Pope's upcoming season is a completely unknown though as reasonable expectations range anywhere from winning the starting job to being cut. He'll likely have to prove that he can stay healthy and reasonably productive this season or the club could let him walk, regardless of his status.
Elton Brown: Brown is pretty much in the same boat as Pope considering that he went through his first year of unrestricted status this off season, but he'll most likely be a restricted free agent next off season. Given his versatility, starting experience and how cheap he'll be, I'd imagine the Cardinals tender him next summer.
Stephen Spach: We all know Spach's story by now and the good news for the Cardinals is that he'll likely be a restricted free agent next off season. Whether or not he ends up laying claim to the starting job, he should be back next season considering it won't take much to bring him back.
Steve Breaston: Breaston might be in store for a new contract next off season but if the Cardinals don't feel like spending big money, they won't necessarily need to either. Breaston will be restricted, so he'll be cheap, but either way he'll be a Cardinal in 2010.
Ben Patrick: Patrick will be restricted whether the CBA get's extended or not and given his talent level, that's a good thing. Patrick's got starting potential and he'll likely be given the chance to prove it during training camp.

---------------------------------------------------------------------

There are also handful of other youngster who will be either restricted or exclusive rights free agents, including Lyle Sendlein, Tim Castille, Elliot Vallejo, Ben Claxton, Tyler Palko, Donovan Raiola, Lance Long and Alex Shor among others, but the club won't have a problem retaining any of them, if they so choose. Overall Gandy looks like the biggest name on the list and it'll be interesting how his spot is filled if they choose to let him walk. Who would you keep and what are your predictions?

Projecting the Arizona Cardinals 2009 Draft While Looking Back

Hawkwind — Wed, 01 Apr 2009 16:56:41 -0000

The NFL draft is one of the sport's most difficult things to predict, grade or even quantify at times, but any way that you look at the Arizona Cardinals 2008 class, they've been a resounding success. Entering their second seasons as professionals, there are two guaranteed starters, with the possibility of a third, and a couple others should play significant roles as reserves. So why were the Cardinals so successful last April? Was it luck or an ingenuous draft philosophy?

Obviously a large part of the draft process is speculation based on an ugly word called potential but assuming it wasn't just luck that brought the Cardinals a very good draft class in 2008, could it have been a thought process based on the teams 'future' needs? Head ball coach Ken Whisenhunt said they approached the 2008 draft with a 'best player avaliable' approach but I wonder if it was a bit more than that. Their approach in April of 2008 seemed to fill needs on the roster before they were actually needs (ok, are you confused as I am right now). For example, it's possible that the coaching staff and front office didn't expect much from Eric Green going into the season and understood that he was a free agent after the season. Those two factors might have led the Cardinals brass to put corner back as their primary need heading into the draft. With the same thought process, it's possible that they assumed that Antonio Smith would play himself out of the Cardinals budget in his final year under contract, meaning that they'd have to draft a player capable of starting in his second season. These two possible scenerios led to the drafting of Dominique Rodgers Cromartie and Calais Campbell. Similar arguments could have been made with the contract situations of Edgerrin James and Anquan Boldin, leading to the selections of Tim Hightower and Early Doucet. Hopefully the argument I'm trying to make it a bit more clear now. With this (possibly flawed) logic in place, could the Cardinals employ a similar strategy in this upcoming draft and if so, what would be the biggest needs?

When we identified the Cardinals biggest needs heading into the off season, running back and outside linebackers topped the list with corner back and offensive line coming in a distant third and fourth, respectively. The Cardinals have obviously filled the need at corner with the signing of Bryant McFadden so we'll assume that the corner position drops at least a couple of rungs on the 'need ladder' for now. Lets take a look at the other top needs and a few other positions that we might have over looked:

Running Back: The Cardinals currently have three backs under contract but every time Edgerrin James' phone rings he's praying that Rod Graves is on the other end with news that he's been released. He's got one foot and his heart out the door but Tim Hightower is still under the franchise's for another three years and Jason Wright signed a two year deal less than a month ago. While it's possible the team could roll into the 2009 season with these three on the depth chart, it's almost a guarantee that they'll use a pick, preferably in the early rounds, on a running back. If all else fails and Edge is a part of the 2009 squad, they'll need a back to step into a significant role in 2010.

Outside Linebacker: With four warm bodies filling two positions, the Cardinals seem to have solid depth on the outside but two of the four (Okeafor and Berry) will be free agents next year and Travis LaBoy is the only one under the age of 32. The Cardinals must infuse this position with some youth and I'd expect at least one draft pick to fit this role with the possibly of a second pick. An undrafted free agent to sit on the practice squad for a year wouldn't be a big surprise either.

Offensive Line: The Cardinals offensive line might be the most dividing force among fans. Some feel the unit is one more season away from greatness while others feel that both tackles should be guards, both guards are backups and the center is just an undersized weakling. The truth more likely is somewhere in the between and considering that three starters are still 25 years old or younger, there is still quite a bit of room to grow and develop. That doesn't necessarily mean that the offensive line should be forgotten about this April though. Mike Gandy, Deuce Lutui and Elton Brown (two starters and top backup) will all be unrestricted free agents after this season and Lyle Sendlien and Elliot Vallejo will be restricted free agents. With so much possible turnover, it seems unlikely that the offensive line won't be addressed with at last one pick.

Tight End: We've certainly spent some time talking about the tight end position over the past year and even discussed the possibility of Brandon Pettigrew falling to the 31st pick in the first round. Regardless of your feeling about our current 'full hand' of tight ends, it's worth knowing that all five will be some form of free agent after the 2009 season. Leonard Pope, Stephen Spach and Anthony Becht will be unrestricted free agents and Ben Patrick and Alex Shor will be restricted free agents. Considering the history of those five (both injuries and flat out ineffectiveness), a draft pick on a tight end wouldn't be a surprise at all.

Nose Tackle: The big uglies in the center of the defense is a position that we haven't addressed much this off season because they appear solid with Gabe Watson as the starter, Alan Branch as the underachieving backup and Bryan Robinson as the emergency fill-in. Before we all get too comfortable though it's worth mentioning that Watson and Robison are free agents after this season and the idea of relying on Branch in 2010 is a.....umm.....less than promising idea. While I can't see using an early round pick on a big gap plugger, a middle round pick on a wide bodied nose tackle wouldn't be terrible idea.

Other possibilities depending on contract situations: It pains me to say it but if nothing changes between now and next February (not likely but I'm just saying), the Cardinals could be on the verge of losing their two defensive leaders. Both Karlos Dansby and Adrian Wilson stand to be free agents after this season and even though the front office is said to be committed to both players, no progress has been made to this point. Losing one or both players would leave a significant gap in a defense that would seriously lack veteran leadership without A-dub or Dansby.

----------------------------------------------------------------

So that a pretty convoluted way of looking at the upcoming draft but maybe it sheds some light on some positions that we might have overlooked, namely nose tackle. While it still very possible that the Cardinals could retain Gabe Watson, the possibility, ever slight it may be, of entering the 2010 season with Branch and a rookie might scare the front office enough into using a pick on a nose tackle. What other positions could we be overlooking? Does any of this change the order of needs in your mind?

Are the Arizona Cardinals Finished with Free Agency?

Hawkwind — Wed, 18 Mar 2009 14:47:38 -0000

The free agent crop is thinning and the Arizona Cardinals took their one big bite when they signed Bryant McFadden and one small nibble by signing Jason Wright. The ranks thin each day as more guys are signed, but for a team with as many needs as the Cardinals there are still some usable pieces out there. The franchise has plenty of money under the cap (they could open up even more cap space by extending Karlos Dansby or Adrian Wilson!) but will there be room on the roster? Darren Urban had a breakdown of the roster a week ago with the idea that roster spots could already be at a premium. With the signing of Clark Haggans today, the Cardinals have 61 players under contract. Urban remains pretty sure that Bertrand Berry will be re-signed and that Edge will be released so that shouldn't affect the number of players on the roster. When you add in the eight draft picks and ten or twelve undrafted free agents, the number nears the maximum of 80 (this is the time of year that the NFL Europa roster exemptions are missed most).

The Cardinals do have some guys who could easily be released if a coveted free agent is signed including traditional "practice bodies" running back Chris Vincent, wide receiver Ornea Jones, tight end Alex Shor or punter Waylon Prather. So what free agents out there should or could interest the Cardinals at this point in free agency? Here's some guys that I'm still interested in:

Quinn Sypniewski (TE): The soon to be 27 year old tight end is an above average blocker, as his size (6'6 270) would suggest. He also caught 34 passes in 2007 (his second season in the league) before tearing his ACL in mini-camps last July. He missed all of the 2008 season and the catch with him is that he's a restricted free agent. The Ravens would have the right to match any offer and it would cost the Cardinals a fifth round pick to sign him, but for those hoping that use a mid to late round pick on tight end, he might be a better option.

Marvel Smith (OT) and Kendall Simmons (OG): I'm not sure either of these guys would be instant starters or even upgrades on the offensive line, but I still can't help but think that Whisenhunt and Grimm are interested. Smith and Simmons were both starters on the Steelers' 2005 Super Bowl team and would certainly add tons of depth and competition to the team. Smith's last two seasons have been cut short by a gimping back and Simmons tore an Achilles last year so both are significant injury risks, but a short one year "prove your healthy" contract wouldn't be all that surprising to me. The longer these two go unsigned the further they're price will drop and the more likely that Whiz makes a call.

Marques Harris (OLB): Harris has been buried under some superb linebackers in San Diego but he didn't excel as a starter last year and he's a bit undersized (6'1 231). Still though he's experienced in a 3-4, young (27 years old) and should be relatively cheap.

Pat Thomas (ILB): Thomas isn't starting material but he could fill the same role as Monty Beisel and he's quite a bit younger (26 years old). Thomas started nine games last season for the Chiefs but after missing four games to injury he didn't get his starting job back. The Chiefs haven't shown any interest in bringing him back but he might be a better fit as an ILB in a 3-4.

Matt Giordano (S): The 26 year old has started a handful of games during his four seasons in Indy, playing both free and strong safety, and he's a solid special teams player. He's got outstanding speed for a safety (sub 4.5) and might be a decent center fielder.

As you can see the free agent pickings are pretty slim. At this point any team still fishing in the free agent waters isn't looking for starters, but instead a decent role player who fits a pressing need (think Bryan Robinson from last off season). The Cardinals still have their own free agents to consider as well:

Bertrand Berry: Everything points to Berry returning to the Cardinals at this point. His age and skill set leaves him best suited as a situational pass rusher at this point in his career but in that role he could still be the teams best rusher.

Ralph Brown: The veteran corner revived his career once he leap-frogged Eric Green and got regular playing time. His size (5'10 185) and age (30) are working against him but he's still probably the best option as the Cardinals fourth corner. I wouldn't be terribly upset to hear if he was re-signed with the thought of trying him out at safety.

Elton Brown: If the Cardinals are looking for a versatile lineman who could be decent spot starter, they probably should look at their very own Elton Brown. The fact that he's still on the market is a sign that no one was willing to throw starting money at him. Many think he's a better or at least very comparible player to Duece Lutui.

-------------------------------------------------------------

The Cardinals roster is filing up fast and the remaining additions may be strictly draft related, but they still have some flexibility if they get the free agent itch. Are any of these free agents worth taking a shot at though? Of the remaining three Cardinals free agents, which would you sign?

State of the Arizona Cardinals Roster: Tight Ends

Hawkwind — Wed, 25 Feb 2009 17:57:29 -0000

Ah....the tight ends. No other position group on the Arizona Cardinals roster drew as much scorn as the tight ends and for good reason. Between injuries, mental mistakes and flat out ineffectiveness, the Cardinals group of tight ends, once considered a talented and deep position, is now one of the biggest question marks heading into 2009. The ineptitude of the tight ends as whole can be summed up in one sentence, they signed a guy who completely unemployed and in less than 20 days he was not only the starter but by far the best player at the position.

Stephen Spach

Age and 2008 Stats: 26 years old (7/18/82) - 2 receptions, 15 yards

Contract Status: Exclusive Rights Free Agent

2008 Analysis: Spach didn't join the Cardinals until October 28th but he won the starting job by the first Seattle game (11/16) and never looked back. He wasn't a big receiving threat but he was a definite upgrade as a blocker and he didn't make the bone-head mistakes that we've come to expect from our tight ends. Spach saved his best game for the playoff game with the Falcons when he caught three passes for 34 yards, including a huge third down catch to seal the win. His performance was impressive enough for him to garner serious consideration for ROTB's most prestigious award, Cardinal of the Week. Sadly Spach's season would end just one week later though when he tore his ACL against the Panthers.

2009 Outlook: The good news is that the Cardinals have exclusive negotiating rights with Spach, so if they want him back they'll get him. The bad news is that he tore his ACL in the middle of January so it's a stretch to say he'll be 100% by the beginning of the season (roughly eight months). A more likely scenario is for him to start the season on the PUP list and rejoin the team after six more weeks of rehab. He's still a young guy though and he'll be cheap enough that I can't imagine why he won't be a solid contributor for 2009 (even if we have to wait a month or two to see him).

Ben Patrick

Age and 2008 Stats: 24 years old (8/23/84) - 11 receptions for 104 yards

Contract Status: Exclusive Rights Free Agent

2008 Analysis: Patrick, like most of tight end mates, spent as much time in the training room as he did on the field in 2008. He got off to a fast start with eight receptions and 71 yards in the first five games (three starts) but injuries would keep him out of the next five games and he wouldn't start another game for the rest of the season, including the playoffs. Patrick's never been considered a great blocker, in fact adequate might be a stretch), but he struggled to get anything going in the passing game either, averaging less than ten yards per reception. He did have a good catch in the Super Bowl when he went up and got a ball on a short one yard touchdown.

2009 Outlook: Patrick will be back in 2009 and his roster spot should be safe. Unless the Cardinals add a couple of tight ends during the off season, they simply don't have the depth to cut a guy of Patrick's ability. He's always had the ability to be a decent receiving option and he's young enough to have the opportunity to develop into an all-around tight end, but he's got to stay healthy.

Leonard Pope

Age and 2008 Stats: 25 years old (9/10/83) - 9 receptions for 77 yards

Contract Status: Restricted Free Agent

2008 Analysis: There was some hope that Pope could have a breakout year in 2008 but early on we learned that was faulty logic. Pope struggled through various injuries during training camp and he might never have been 100% during the season. He only missed three games but he didn't start three games in a row until the playoffs. He still struggles with blocking, in the passing game and running game, and stupid penalties, namely jumping off sides.

2009 Outlook: Pope will be back on a one year deal and he'll be the 2009 version of Eric Green. I wouldn't be surprised to see him open training camp as the starter but be well buried on depth chart (or just inactive as Green was) by mid-season. Pope will not only stay healthy, something he's never managed to do, but he also has to improve every part of his game. Pope is playing for his NFL future in 2009.

Jerame Tuman

Age and 2008 Stats: 32 years old (3/2476) - 3 receptions for 41 yards

Contract Status: Unrestricted Free Agent

2008 Analysis: Tuman was brought in as another former Steeler who was supposed to be a veteran presence and leader of the younger guys at his position. Instead apparently drank the same water as the rest of the tight ends because he struggled injuries the entire year. He was even cut at the end of December but returned after Spach went down in the playoffs. He finished season appearing in just eight games with three starts and all three of his receptions came in a single game (regular season CAR game).

2009 Outlook: I'd be shocked to see Tuman in a Cardinal jersey in 2009. He's always been a blocking tight end who offered very little in the passing game and Spach proved that he was a major upgrade over Tuman. He'll end up somewhere but unless Spach is expected to miss most of the season and they don't bring in anyone else, I doubt the Cardinals even try to re-sign him.

Alex Shor

Age and 2008 Stats: 26 years old (1/29/83) - 0 games

Contract Status: Exclusive Rights Free Agent

2008 Analysis: Shor has been on the Cardinals practice squad for two seasons (2006 & 2008) and been to camp with the team for three consecutive seasons.

2009 Outlook: We learned everything that we needed to know about Shor when they signed Spach off the street. Shor had was familiar with the system, having been with the team for two full seasons, but the coaching staff still felt more comfortable picking up a completely unknown player. Shor's days with the Cardinals should be finished.

Overview and Needs: Oh man, where to start? First, if the season started today the Cardinals wouldn't have a single tight end under contract so it's obvious that they've got to sign some guys and most likely bring in at least one free agent or rookie. Considering that it's a long shot (at best) for Spach to be healthy by the start of the season, they're more likely to bring in at least two guys. I'm sure some fans would rather clean house and bring in three or four new faces and start from scratch and with that in mind, here are the free agent tight ends (buyer beware, the tight end crop is very weak):

Jim Kleinsasser: Kleinsasser is a fullback stuck in a tight ends body but he's never had a problem sticking his nose in the trenches and getting his hands dirty. He's also been remarkably healthy considering he hasn't missed a game in the past four seasons. He's not a pass threat at all but at his size (6'3 272) it's like having six lineman on the field. His age (32) is a concern but a two year deal should suit him nicely.
Chris Baker: The 29 year old was released by the Jets earlier this month and some question whether he's starting material at all in the NFL. He's an adequate blocker, although nothing special, and he's been a decent receiver at points in his career (41 receptions in 2007). He's also managed to play in at least 15 games in five of the last six seasons.
L.J. Smith: Smith's name might get him a contract that's a bit above his actual abilities. He was franchised last year by the Eagles but lost his job at the end of the season and for the playoffs. Smith is a better receiver than a blocker but he's got a reputation in Philly for dropping passes and jumping off sides. He's still somewhat young (28) and he's got decent size (6'3 258) but he might be too high priced for the Cardinals taste.
Quinn Sypniewski: The 26 year old is pretty much an unknown but he's a solid blocker and he started nine games in 2008 for the Ravens. He's got good size (6'6 270) and could be the kind of second or third tier free agent that the Cardinals are looking for.
Jerramy Stevens: We know enough about this guy to stay away right?

----------------------------------------------------------------------

The tight ends took a lot of abuse last season and hopefully we'll have better things to say this time next year. Am I being too hard on a group that struggled with injuries the entire year? How many tight ends would you bring in? Any news on Spach's recovery?

Arizona Cardinals Fill Out the Roster and Practice Squad

cgolden — Wed, 10 Sep 2008 12:56:39 -0000

Hawk beat me to the punch, but the Arizona Cardinals filled out thier roster and practice squad by signing three players, late yesterday. A familiar face, Oliver Celestin, returns to the 53-man roster to fill the spot that was created when he was cut just one week ago. I'm not sure what kind of sense it makes to cut him and resign him within a week considering that he didn't have much of a contract to begin with but maybe they were hoping a better center would be avaliable. I'd imagine that if/when they have to make any roster moves in the future he'll probably be the man on the bottom of the totum pole. Alex Shor and Enoka Lucas were signed to fill out the practice squad. Shor's an interesting name because that gives the Cardinals four tight ends in the organization and could be an indication that Jermane Tuman's hamstring is worse than originally speculated. Shor's a blocking specialist who isn't much of a threat as a reciever, much like Tuman. Lucas was undrafted out of Oregon last year and spent time on Tennessee's and Tampa Bay's practice squad. He's built like a guy (6'2 303) who could be a good fit in the zone blocking scheme that the Cards are trying to employ. He's described as a guy who's an intelligent and fundamental player but he's a marginal athlete at best and doesn't have the foot speed required to excel.

This is obviously not good news for Chris Harrington who is still waiting for a call but hopefully when the injury situation is cleared up at nose tackle and tight end, he'll be brought back.