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Cardinals have one offensive line starter under contract

Beanie Wells, Justin Smith, Levi Brown

Arizona Cardinals running back Beanie Wells (26) fumbles on the Cardinals’ first play from scrimmage against the San Francisco 49ers in an NFL football game Monday, Nov. 29, 2010, in Glendale, Ariz. The 49ers recovered the fumble. At left are 49ers’ Justin Smith (94) and Cardinals’ Levi Brown (75). (AP Photo/Matt York)

AP

The Cardinals offensive line was arguably among the league’s worst last year. So we’re not sure if it’s a good thing or a bad thing they may have to rebuild the whole thing overnight almost from scratch.

AZCardinals.com points out that only one starter from last year’s offensive line is under contract for next year. That’s Levi Brown, who has largely been a disappointment since the Cardinals selected him over Adrian Peterson in the 2007.

Another starter -- right tackle Brandon Keith -- will be easy to retain with a restricted tag.

This isn’t a new issue for Arizona, but it is a reminder how much work must be done. Guard Deuce Lutui could leave via free agency and guard Alan Faneca retired. The Cardinals may rely on backup veterans Jeremy Bridges and Rex Hadnot to step up.

Ken Whisenhunt and Asst. Head Coach/Offensive Line Russ Grimm came to Arizona stressing line play, so we think it’s fair to evaluate how much they have really improved things up front since taking over.

Without many long term solutions, the group doesn’t appear to be in much better shape than when Dennis Green left.