Success after Warner

With Kurt Warner retired, the Arizona Cardinals have to move on with the players that they have. Matt Leinart is the undisputed starter, but the Cardinals brought in Derek Anderson for some quality insurance as a backup. Matt Leinart has extreme pressure to pick up where Kurt left off, nonetheless he is certainly capable of being a good quarterback in this league.

The Cardinals had key players leave this off season and filling their places is all but complete. Karlos Dansby, Anquan Boldin, Neil Rackers and Antrel Rolle all have left due to trade or free agency. The Cardinals were very active in the free agency period by aquiring of few NFL veterans; Jay Feely, Kerry Rhodes, Paris Lennon, Joey Porter, and Alan Faneca. With the abundance of added bodies on the offensive line, it looks like the Cardinals will have quite the competition for starting jobs. By adding these pieces to the offensive line the Cardinals are trying to get away from the one dimensional offense and efficient in the running game as much as they are in the passing game.

Clear signs the “Birdgang” are committed to the running game was bringing in Alan Faneca, Rex Hadnot and signing Deuce Lutui to his tender. Beanie Wells and Tim Hightower will lead the Cardinals attack, with this mauling front line. Implementing a solid running game will take a lot of pressure off of Matt Leinart. Leinart has a lot on his plate, however the emergence of Onrea Jones(practice squad) and Early Doucet, the Cardinals should be alright with the loss of Anquan Boldin.

With the NFC West tightening up, and the solid players coming through the draft, the Arizona Cardinals will have their work cut out for them but I like their chances. Champions are made in the off season and I think everyone on the Cardinals roster has the talent to get it done.