It feels like for the first time in decades that the Arizona Cardinals have a true left tackle in the mix. After ignoring this position following the disastrous selection of Levi Brown back in 2007, Arizona has picked up an above-average pass protector to help keep Carson Palmer upright.
According to Adam Schefter, Veldheer inked a five-year $35 million deal with Arizona on Monday. The former third-round pick of the Oakland Raiders back in 2010 has started 48 games in four seasons. He missed all but five games last season due to injury. Pro Football Focus, however, graded him out as the 12th-best overall offensive tackle in the NFL back in 2012. (Subscription required). The talent is most definitely there
Let’s take a quick look at what this deal means for both the Cardinals and Veldheer.
1. First off, Veldheer leaves what seemed to be a contentious situation in Oakland. As you will see below, the two sides were far apart in contract negotiations and those close to the offensive tackle were not too happy about it.
2. Arizona now has a starter-caliber left tackle to help keep Palmer upright. The veteran quarterback is among the worst in the league when facing pressure, mainly due to his lack of mobility. This should help him avoid mistakes in the future.
3. The Cardinals are likely out of the market for an offensive tackle in the upcoming draft. This means that they can look to fill holes elsewhere as they attempt to close the gap between themselves and the Seattle Seahawks and San Francisco 49ers.
What they’re saying about Jared Veldheer to the Arizona Cardinals
New #AZCardinals LT Jared Veldheer’s mother said he didn’t get a fair offer from the Oakland Raiders: http://t.co/YOrjkBjxLU
— Josh Weinfuss (@joshweinfuss) March 12, 2014
Raiders bizarre decision to let Jared Veldheer walk, give Roger Saffold big money http://t.co/A0nXoXvJxj
— Arrowhead Pride (@ArrowheadPride) March 12, 2014
Brandon Albert to Dolphins: 5 yr, $46M, $25M guaranteed; Eugene Monroe w/Balt: 5-$37.5M-$19M, Jared Veldheer w/Ariz: 5-$35M-$23M. Hmm
— Dave Hyde (@davehydesports) March 11, 2014
Photo: Jake Roth, USA Today