As the Arizona Cardinals began their free agency period off well with the signing of offensive lineman Adam Snyder from the rival 49ers Wednesday, they also lost a key part of their defense as cornerback Richard Marshall signed a three-year, $16 million dollar offer from the Miami Dolphins as they continue to add to their defense in South Beach.

On the same day the retained pro-bowl DT Paul Soliani, Marshall joins the team he claimed 'wouldn't let him go' with signing a deal:

Per Richard Marshall on Twitter:

Just agreed with the dolphins on a 3 yr deal they made me stay in Miami lol

— Richard Marshall (@TheMarshall31) March 15, 2012

Marshall's departure leaves the Card's secondary in need of some help now the sixth year player out of Fresno State, completed 78 tackles in the 2011-12 season including three interceptions in his sole year as a Cardinal. He spent his first five seasons as a Carolina Panther before that.

For more on the Cardinals, head over to Revenge of the Birds. For the Dolphins side of things, check out The Phinsider.