Analyst thinks Orton would be good for Cards
Jun 13, 2011, 6:32 PM | Updated: 10:40 pm
For many the name Kyle Orton has been nothing more than an after thought when it comes to the Cardinals quarterback search. While he may be a consolation prize to some, one ESPN analyst thinks he could be a great fit in Arizona.
John Clayton, as part of a piece on underrated NFL players, said Orton’s play is more impressive than many think and could translate into great success in the desert.
Orton’s better than people think. He’s smart. He’s accurate. He can move an offense. Because he’s not mobile and not a big name, he seems the quarterback the front office always wants to replace. He’ll never be elite, but you have to special to be elite.
Nevertheless, Orton is good enough to compete with the elite quarterbacks and not be embarrassed. If the Arizona Cardinals can’t acquire Kevin Kolb in a trade, they can go after Orton and significantly upgrade their offense.
Orton is an interesting proposition for the Cardinals. Rumors have swirled that if — and that’s a Deuce Lutui sized if — the Broncos are willing to deal him the asking price will be high. The price tag makes sense seeing as any deal involving him would leave Denver with only Tim Tebow and Brady Quinn at the quarterback spot.
If the Cards lose out on Kolb, the price for Orton may not be too rich for their blood. Especially when you consider that he is not only an accurate passer but he also has only thrown more interceptions than touchdowns once. The one time occurred in his rookie season as a member of the Chicago Bears.
Orton would certainly be an improvement at quarterback for the Cardinals. Then again, after a 5-11 season, pretty much any name not already on the roster would be.
