The Arizona Cardinals have to make a decision on quarterback Kevin Kolb's future in the coming days. If they can't work out a new contract, another option now is in place.
The Cardinalsannounced Wednesday that quarterback Drew Stanton reached a three-year deal with the team. NFL.com's Daniel Jeremiah reported, citing a source close to the situation, that Stanton's contract is worth $8.2 million with $3 million guaranteed. An additional $12 million in incentives are built into the deal, according to Jeremiah, bringing the possible total value to $20.2 million.
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The Cardinalsalso agreed to contracts with cornerback Jerraud Powers, safety Yeremiah Bell and linebacker Lorenzo Alexander.
Stanton learned new Cardinals coach Bruce Arians' offense last season as Andrew Luck's backup on the Indianapolis Colts and now looks like an option to start in the desert.
"Physically he has everything you want in a quarterback -- big with a strong arm, can get it up the field and make all the throws," Arians said after the signing. "He's just as impressive mentally and understands the position. I'm excited to get him here and compete."
The new Cardinals regime publicly has said positive things about Kolb, but Kolb is not "big with a strong arm." He can't "make all the throws." Kolb is due a $2 million roster bonus over the weekend and a $9 million salary this season. He's not making that money. Unless Kolb is willing to take a huge pay cut to stay, we expect a release in the coming days.
Even if Kolb stays in Arizona, he'll have to compete for playing time.
Follow Gregg Rosenthal on Twitter @greggrosenthal.