More Cardinals QB moves likely to come after signing of Drew Stanton

The long-predicted signing of Drew Stanton on Wednesday gives new Cardinals head coach Bruce Arians another option in what’s become a very crowded group of quarterbacks.

Stanton, who signed a three-year, $8.2 million contract according to his agent, worked with Arians as the Colts’ backup quarterback behind Andrew Luck. He did not take a regular-season snap in 2012, but does come to Arizona with a complete knowledge of the offensive system used by Arians as the Colts’ offensive coordinator and interim head coach.

Stanton joins four other quarterbacks on the Cardinals roster: restricted free agent Brian Hoyer, Kevin Kolb, John Skelton and Ryan Lindley.

One or more of the Cardinals quarterbacks could be released, including the high-priced Kolb who is scheduled to be paid a $2 million roster bonus and a $9 million base salary in 2013.

The question remains: Will the Cardinals, owners of the seventh overall pick in the NFL Draft, still opt to take a quarterback such as Matt Barkley, who impressed them during the NFL Combine?

Thrilled for QB @drewstanton to sign a 3 year deal with the @AZCardinals—
Mike McCartney (@MikeMcCartney7) March 13, 2013

QB Drew Stanton to the #Cardinals, per his agent. Doesn't completely take them out of QB running in Rd1, but a factor for sure.—
Matt Miller (@nfldraftscout) March 13, 2013