The Arizona Cardinals added linebacker Zach Brown to their roster at the end of last week. His signing has led to speculation about whom he might replace in the defensive lineup. Will he replace Joe Walker, who has worked his way into the playing rotation in base downs to play against the run? Will he play instead of Haason Reddick in nickel packages for coverage purposes?
It is early, but he might have been signed to replace both and play full-time.
After all, he has started 80 of the 100 games he has played in and has started every game he has appeared in the last four seasons.
Cardinals coach Kliff Kingsbury told reporters Monday he was signed because he can play both against the pass and against the run.
“He can do it both, really moves well,” he said. “That’s why we liked him, his ability play in all situations.”
By signing him last weekend, he got a few extra days to learn the playbook and by playing on Thursday, the Cardinals have an extra practice this week. If they are looking to add someone new to the starting lineup, it is the way to do it. But Kingsbury is excited to add Brown.
“I haven’t seen too much live action but, watching his tape, he moves around well, very athletic, has played well in this league,” he said. “(He) provides some really good linebacker depth for us.”
Don’t be surprised if he is more than just depth in the next week or two.
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