Arizona Bets the House on Kevin Kolb; Will It Pay Off?

COMMENTARY | Just days after the NFL officially declared an end to the 2011 lockout, teams have already started jockeying for the best free agents and trade deals. The biggest gamble so far has been the Arizona Cardinals' acquisition of Kevin Kolb, who they obviously plan to build their franchise around, from the Philadelphia Eagles.

$63 Million Contract, $20 Million Guaranteed

The young quarterback will sign a five-year contract for $63 million, including a $20 million guarantee. The Eagles will get a second-round draft pick and Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie, who was a 2009 Pro Bowl cornerback. All I can say about this deal is that Kolb's agent must be astounding, especially considering Kolb's unproven status as a starter leaves the Cardinals' chances for a winning season this year up for debate.

Dynamic Duo?

With Larry Fitzgerald on the receiving end, we are guaranteed to see a much more aggressive Arizona team this year. Last year Fitzgerald only managed six receiving touchdowns, which is half of what he has averaged since 2006. The game I am looking forward to the most in relation to this situation is on Nov. 13, when the Cardinals visit Philadelphia.

Given Philly's comparatively diminutive secondary, a Cromartie-Fitzgerald matchup is likely. Arizona was desperate to get a quarterback who is even capable of delivering, but if Cromartie can help ground Kolb's passing game, it will prove Philadelphia came out on top in vision and athleticism.

Had To Be Done

Kevin Kolb's QB rating is below average, and he had just as many interceptions as he did touchdown passes last season. He has had some standout games, however, but making Kolb a consistent passer will take some work, and more importantly experience. If it doesn't work out, Arizona is stuck with a mediocre offense until 2016 and at least $12 million per year less in salary cap room. No matter what the outcome, the Cardinals had to make this trade to have a shot at becoming a contender. It was a calculated gamble that figured with Kolb, we have a chance. Without Kolb, we need to build for next year.

You can't ever count Arizona out in a league full of players who know they could be injured next Sunday and never play again. In trade negotiations, a player may not be able to pick a team that won the Super Bowl last year, but he can go to Arizona, a place where his family will enjoy living and the climate is dry and warm.

I knew all along the Cardinals could get Kolb if they wanted to show some love with an extended commitment and guaranteed money. Kolb can start practicing Aug. 4 when the league year officially starts.