The Arizona Cardinals look like they are done tweaking their 53-man roster in preparation for Week 1 of the 2011-12 NFL season. Of course, you never know what might happen and there's certainly going to be changes as the season moves along due to injury and / or performance. For now, however, coach Ken Whisenhunt seems satisfied with where things are.
Whisenhunt spoke after Monday's practice about the addition of veteran running back Chester Taylor.
"He's a veteran player that's been very productive in the league. I've seen him for a number of years. We'll get him in here and see what his role will be. Whether he's a third down back or a first and second back, those are roles he's done in games and done very well."
Taylor is coming off a down year with the Bears in which he only ran for 267 yards despite playing in all 16 games. Whisenhunt sees his general place on the team as veteran who can work with the younger backs in a role similar to Jason Wright last season.
Whisenhunt remains impressed with Alfonso Smith and will likely use him on special teams. Smith was praised for his work ethic and pass protection.
The two cornerbacks signed, Korey Lindsey and Crezdon Butler, are players the team had scored highly on various player evaluations. Both will come in and provide depth for a position that's probably the weakest group on the team in terms of talent and experience.
Rookie Quan Sturdivant didn't make the cut because, according to Whisenhunt, he simply wasn't in the top eight linebackers. The team hopes to get him back at some point so they can continue to develop him.
For more on the Cardinals roster moves, visit Revenge of the Birds.