NFL - Off Season - Anderson Signs for Arizona Cardinals

Derek Anderson has been let go by the Cleveland Browns and has now signed a deal with the Arizona Cardinals as their back-up QB.

Anderson made his mark in the NFL when he moved from the Ravens to the Browns in 2005 and the very next season hit 29 touchdowns and over 3,700 yards. His performance earned him a place at the Pro Bowl.

It proved to be a 'flash in the pan', however, as Anderson never regained that level of form. Last season, in the eight games in which he played, he managed just 888 yards, three touchdowns and suffered ten interceptions - finally forcing Cleveland's hand.

Anderson now has renewed hope at Arizona, as Kurt Warner's retirement from the game means that he can fight it out for the number one spot with Matt Leinhart.

Leinhart's record isn't that impressive either as he initially lost his starting position to Kurt Warner back in 2008 - the future Hall of Famer went on to lead his team (Arizona) to a Super Bowl appearance in 2009.

It'll be a 'big ask' for both Anderson and Leinhart to follow in Warner's footsteps - Warner took the Cardinals to the playoffs last season and the NFC West title.

Anderson stated that he is keen to 'start over' at Arizona and rejected interest from the Seahawks, admitting that having wide receivers Steve Breaston and Larry Fitzgerald was a motivating factor. Anderson had also labelled the Browns fans as 'ruthless' and stated that they didn't deserve a winner, after his treatment by them. He later apologized.

Ken Wisenhunt ( NFL Coach Arizona Cardinals) is looking forward to the competition that Anderson will bring for the QB slot.

Anderson's contract signing increases the likelihood that the Seahawks will sign Charlie Whitehurst. The Seahawks still don't have a third-round draft pick to throw over to the Chargers in exchange for Whitehurst.

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