Aug. 8, 2008

Almost two weeks into training camp it has become readily apparent to daily team observers that arguably the biggest key to success for the Cardinals in 2008 will be for the starting offensive line to stay healthy because of the precious little depth behind it. Russ Grimm’s O-line has taken a significant hit at center, with regular starter Al Johnson’s opening-day status up in the air after undergoing surgery on the same troublesome left knee that was operated on in May, and third-team C Scott Peters suffering a severe, season-ending knee injury in practice (team insiders tell us Peters had looked impressive before going down for the count). Then this past Monday, rookie free agent Carlton Medder, who was listed as the top backup to OLG Reggie Wells, fractured his left elbow, which is expected to keep him out at least a month. Even before all this carnage, the consensus heading into camp was that the Cardinals were in dire need of more experienced backup help at tackle, with unproven first-year players Elliot Vallejo and Pete Clifford listed on the depth chart behind starters Levi Brown and Mike Gandy, respectively. One positive note has been the steady progress seventh-round rookie OL Brandon Keith appears to be making. Team insiders have been impressed with Keith’s footwork and pass-blocking ability, but it remains to be seen whether Keith’s injury-induced switch early this week from right tackle to left guard will hinder his development.