Arizona Cardinals to Sign Blaine Gabbert
By Jeremy Meek
The Arizona Cardinals are signing quarterback Blaine Gabbert to a contract
Quarterback Carson Palmer is the unquestioned starter for the Arizona Cardinals. However, injuries aren’t exactly unheard of where he is concerned. He’s also likely playing in his final season at age 37. Many people thought they’d address the future in the recent NFL Draft, but they chose to address other areas.
Last week, the Cardinals met with free agent quarterback Blaine Gabbert, fresh off a stint in San Francisco. Today, it looks like they’ll be signing him to a one-year contract.
Former 49ers' and Jaguars' QB Blaine Gabbert is signing a one-year deal with the Arizona Cardinals, per source.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) May 10, 2017
Gabbert was originally drafted by the Jacksonville Jaguars with the 10th overall pick of the 2011 NFL Draft. That draft was famous for producing a high amount of great players, including current Cardinals cornerback Patrick Peterson, but having three quarterback busts taken in the top 12 picks.
More from Raising Zona
- Arizona Cardinals: Could Eric Bieniemy come to the desert?
- Would Jonathan Gannon be a good fit for the Arizona Cardinals?
- Arizona Cardinals: Budda Baker right in his take regarding the next coach
- Arizona Cardinals: 3 reasons new coach should want to work with Murray
- Arizona Cardinals special teams could be completely revamped in 2023
The Jaguars went 5-22 in Gabbert’s starts with the team. He then went to San Francisco, where he recorded a 4-9 record as a starter in limited time. Ultimately, he lost the starting job back to Colin Kaepernick last season. For his career, Gabbert has completed 56% of his passes, and has 38 touchdowns to 37 interceptions.
Once considered by some to be a better prospect than Cam Newton, Gabbert never developed into the player he was projected to be. He has a good arm, and can make plays with his feet. However, his accuracy is inconsistent, and his mechanics are an issue, especially versus pressure.
Cardinals fans are sure to be skeptical of the signing. Gabbert is likely just insurance for 2017, though, and will just try and prove he’s not finished as an NFL quarterback.
Still, looking ahead, the Cardinals don’t have a plan for 2018. They are certain to be open to any and all options, including Gabbert if they feel he’s the best option. He has a lot to prove, and it looks like he’ll get a chance.