As expected, Arizona Cardinals quarterback Kevin Kolb has been ruled out for Sunday's tilt with the Cleveland Browns, and backup John Skelton will make his fifth start of the season.
Kolb suffered a concussion in last week's win against the San Francisco 49ers and has been slow to recover from the injury. Kolb was limited in practice throughout the week, and Cardinals coach Ken Whisenhunttold Sirius XM NFL Radio on Saturday that Skelton likely would start over Kolb.
Thought to be the franchise's quarterback of the future after the Cardinals acquired Kolb in an offseason trade with the Philadelphia Eagles, Kolb has suffered through a disastrous 2011 season, battling injuries and ineffective play.
Kolb has thrown nine touchdowns to eight interceptions in nine games, while Skelton has seven TDs in almost half as much playing time.
If Kolb continues to struggle -- or if Skelton strings together a few more wins to close out the season -- the Cardinals might be in an awkward situation this offseason.
NFL Network insider Jason La Canfora reported Sunday that the team could move on from Kolb with minimal financial and salary-cap ramifications, according the quarterback's contract.
Kolb is due a $7 million roster bonus in March, and if the Cardinals decline the bonus, they could get get out of the contract after paying Kolb just $12 million total.
In other injury news, Cardinals tackle Brandon Keith (ankle) is active. Browns wideout Joshua Cribbs (groin), guard Shawn Lauvao (ankle) and tackle Tony Pashos (ankle) are also active.
Visit www.nfl.com/inactives to see inactive players in every Sunday game.
