Arizona Cardinals: Jonathan Cooper Remains Unsigned

May 10, 2013; Tempe, AZ, USA; Arizona Cardinals guard Jonathan Cooper (61) fends off Cardinals defensive end Everrette Thompson (72) during rookie minicamp at the Cardinals Training Facility. Mandatory Credit: Matt Kartozian-USA TODAY Sports

The Arizona Cardinals are going to benefit from Jonathan Cooper for the duration of his time with the team, but they’re going to have to sign him first.

Cooper hasn’t been signed yet, which isn’t good for the Cardinals. If the two sides can’t reach an agreement, there could be discord between the two sides and the team in general. Cooper was picked seventh in the 2013 NFL draft, so he has the right to believe that he should be paid.

OTAs start again this week, and Cooper’s contract situation isn’t going to help the team as it tries to build chemistry. Arizona’s offensive line performed terribly in 2012, surrendering an unacceptable 58 sacks. Cooper is looking to help protect new quarterback Carson Palmer, and based on his track record, he definitely can do so.

The two sides should agree soon, but this could develop into a larger issue. If the Cardinals and Cooper can’t agree, questions about Cooper’s attitude will come up, which isn’t needed in Arizona.

The Cardinals are trying to develop good chemistry, which is always key. If Cooper is holding out, it’s definitely going to damage the team chemistry