The Arizona Cardinals are nearing the conclusion of their third and final week of organized team activities and although the coaching staff has stressed jobs can’t be won or lost during OTAs, it’s safe to say their keeping a close eye on what they’re seeing on the Cards practice fields in Tempe.
The position coaches, the media and Cardinal fans can’t keep their eyes off is at quarterback where Kevin Kolb and John Skelton have been sharing first-team reps, while San Diego State rookie sixth-round pick Ryan Lindley has also made a favorable early impression within the organization.
“I think you’re seeing some great competition [between Kolb and Skelton],” Cards offensive coordinator Mike Miller told Brad Cesmat Tuesday on ‘Big Guy on Sports.’ “The first thing I think the fans should know is these two guys have a very high standard of work. They have a lot of respect for each other and it’s a good, competitive situation. Each guy is trying to fine-tune how he can handle the system. They’re making strides everyday.”
Miller also explained Lindley’s upside and why the coaching staff feels they got a steal late in April’s draft.
“This guy is very poised,” Miller said to Cesmat. “Not a whole lot can shake him. Physically, really a strong arm and can make all the throws. When he does have to leave the pocket, he keeps his eyes downfield and he’s still looking to make a play.”
Regardless of who the starting quarterback is when the Cards take the field for their regular season opener September 9 against Seattle in Glendale, they’ll be happy to have another weapon to throw to in first-round pick Michael Floyd who hopes to play opposite Larry Fitzgerald.
The former Notre Dame star is trying to learn three different receiver spots, but the staff has been pleased with his ball skills and toughness both in route running and after the catch.
“We’re excited about where he is,” Miller said. “He’s added good competition to that group.”
The Red Birds continue OTA’s through Thursday before returning for mini-camp next Tuesday-Thursday.
The team will reconvene and head to Flagstaff for training camp in late July before kicking off the NFL pre-season against the New Orleans Saints in the Hall of Fame Game in Canton, Ohio on August 5.
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Eric Sorenson
A Valley native, Eric has had a passion for the Arizona sports scene since an early age. He has covered some of the biggest events including Super Bowls, national championships and the NBA and MLB playoffs in his near 20 years in local media.