Could Drew Stanton lead the Arizona Cardinals one day?
By Jim Koch
Although the heir apparent to Carson Palmer has yet to be determined it’s possible he’s already on the Arizona Cardinals’ roster
The day most of us dread will come sooner rather than later. The day when quarterback Carson Palmer announces his retirement from the Arizona Cardinals and the NFL. It’s also a day when the Cardinals better know who will take over the most important position in sports.
There’s been much discussion about who that may be. Logan Thomas was drafted to possibly take over but is no longer on the roster. Matt Barkley was acquired from Philadelphia for a draft pick but the odds are against him. There were rumors that Tampa Baby’s Mike Glennon was inquired about but a trade never materialized.
A name that rarely comes up in any bar room banter is the current backup to Palmer, Drew Stanton. Stanton did mention recently that he was promised consideration for the position when Palmer finally decides to call it quits.
Is Stanton the kind of quarterback who could lead the team to the promised land? Could his vast knowledge of the Arizona offense and the cannon for an arm he possesses be a good replacement for the respected and popular Palmer?
When Bruce Arians took over in 2013 he brought Stanton in to be “the guy”. A career journeyman, Stanton had served under Arians as Andrew Luck’s backup in Indianapolis. The transition to Arizona would be smooth since he had already learned the intricacies of the very complicated, detail-oriented Arians offense.
But then the Oakland Raiders, in the style of “The Godfather’s” Don Vito Corleone, gave Arizona and offer they couldn’t refuse. They dealt them Palmer, a more talented and experienced veteran, for practically nothing. Suddenly, Stanton was a backup once again.
So will Arians show Stanton the same respect he showed him in 2013 by giving him the reins when Palmer retires? Is the Stanton the kind of quarterback his teammates will rally around for a full season? It’s possible Arizona could do better but it’s also possible they could do alot worse.
Since he’s arrived in the desert Stanton has been a good soldier, not causing any waves, filling in admirably when needed. A team guy through and through. Here’s hoping he’s given his chance.