With Alex Smith Out of the Picture, Arizona Cardinals Look to Others

August 29, 2012; East Rutherford, NJ, USA; New England Patriots quarterback Ryan Mallett (15) drops back to pass during the first quarter of a preseason game against the New York Giants at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports

Ok, so we know Alex Smith is gone. Well, at least he is out of the picture for the Arizona Cardinals.  That begs the question, who is the next quarterback on the Cards hit list?  Will they draft a quarterback in the first round?  Most believe no, however they were quite impressed with his interview at the combine last weekend.  Others think they may wait to draft someone in the later rounds.

It is hard to say.  It may actually come down to Kevin Kolb again and finding someone who can compete for the starting job.  Do they attempt to trade for a guy like Ryan Mallett?  Reports would suggest that won’t happen as the New England Patriots have stated they aren’t actively shopping him.  That doesn’t necessarily mean they aren’t listening though.

Then it was suggested today that the Cards may be interested in Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Matt Cassel.  I have not heard anyone from the Cards say they would be interested.  Of course they couldn’t until a trade actually occurs.  However it seems all like speculation at this point.  I personally think someone out there just wants to link every available quarterback to the Cards one way or another.

Mallett is someone I wouldn’t mind seeing in Arizona.  As far as Cassel goes, I’m not sure he is the answer.  There is a reason he was a backup at USC.  There is a reason he was the backup to Tom Brady.  Oh and don’t throw his 11-5 season in replacement of Brady either.  Let’s remember Derek Anderson went 10-6 in 2007 too.  We all know how well he turned out.  He just isn’t that good.  I’d take Matt Barkley in the draft before going after him.

March and April will give us the answers.  Until then, all pure speculation.