Solid starting left tackles don't often hit free agency. When they do get there, they don't stay available for long.
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The Arizona Cardinals and former Oakland Raiders tackle Jared Veldheer have agreed to a five-year, $37.5 million contract, with $17 million in guaranteed money, NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported.
The news comes at the same time we heard that Branden Albertwill join the Miami Dolphins and Roger Saffold will replace Veldheer in Oakland. It probably won't be long until Eugene Monroe comes to terms, too.
Veldheer always was our favorite target on the open market for value, age and talent. He's a great pass protector who wil turn 27 years old this season. He didn't cost as much as Albert, but we like Veldheer more as a safe long-term bet.
More importantly, Veldheer upgrades what perhaps was the worst left tackle situation in the entire league. The Cardinals have been a joke at left tackle for years, reaching a nadir last season with Bradley Sowell taking over for Levi Brown.
Carson Palmer still can effectively throw the ball when protected. Veldheer immediately makes a dangerous Cardinals team much better.
In the latest edition of the "Around The League Podcast," the guys study the free agency picture with the help of NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport.
