It's not often you draft a cornerback that immediately contributes to a winning franchise. It's even less often you trade that cornerback after a Super Bowl run and a Pro Bowl selection. But that just what happened Thursday night, as reports leaked out that the Arizona Cardinals had traded Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie and a second-round draft pick the Philadelphia Eagles for Kevin Kolb. Just goes to show you the unparalleled value the quarterback position has in the NFL.
While we in the desert admire our shiny new leader, Rodgers-Cromartie is set to begin practicing at Lehigh University in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania this afternoon. The 25-year-old released this statement following his arrival:
Thank you to the Arizona Cardinals and Coach Whisenhunt for allowing me the opportunity to play for such a great organization. I will always be appreciative of the time I spent in Arizona; it's where I began my Professional career. The three years there taught me invaluable lessons about the game of football, all of which prepared me for this pivotal point in my career. As I grow my game and move into my fourth year in the league, I am looking forward to joining the Philadelphia Eagles defense and playing along side and learning from one of the best corners in the game, Asante Samuel. Coach Reid, the Eagles organization and the community of Philadelphia are welcoming me with open arms, creating an avenue for me to play my best game yet! I'm ready to get to work and a become a great asset for Philly; bringing home a NFC Championship and Superbowl title is my number one priority!
In three seasons with Arizona Rodgers-Cromartie amassed 136 tackles, 61 pass deflections, 13 interceptions, and 4 touchdowns while playing in all 16 games each year. He had three interceptions in five postseason games, including two during the Cardinals legendary '08-‘09 Super Bowl run.