Contract Updates: Boldin and Dockett

With two of the Cardinals marquee players seeking new contracts, GM Rod Graves has his hands full heading into training camp. WR Anquan Boldin and DT Darnell Dockett are both vital to the Cardinals success in 2008. Brad Wilbricht breaks down the two players current situations in this AZRedReport.com exclusive.

Although WR Anquan Boldin and DT Darnell Dockett are both requesting new contracts, the next two players on GM Rod Graves' radar should be LB Karlos Dansby and SS Adrian Wilson. Time is running out to lock up Dansby to a long-term deal as the two parties have until only July 15 to reach a new agreement. The Cardinals have more time to negotiate with Wilson as his current contract expires following the 2009 season.

Unfortunately for the Cardinals, Boldin and Dockett are both represented by agent Drew Rosenhaus. Rosenhaus’ clients are notorious for holding out until all of their contract demands are met. With Boldin and Dockett poised to be major contributors in Arizona this year, addressing these current issues will be critical. Both players were present for the team's mandatory minicamp but have been absent from nearly all other activities this offseason.

Further complicating matters is the new contract of WR Larry Fitzgerald. The Cardinals went against franchise history and rewarded Fitzgerald with a four-year $40 million contract. Boldin’s and Dockett’s recent demands are undoubtedly fueled by the generous contract given to Fitzgerald.

DT Darnell Dockett
(Getty)

Boldin is arguably just as important to the Cardinals offense as Fitzgerald. His career statistics are on par with Fitzgerald's and he also provides great leadership in the huddle. Boldin has been in this situation before, demanding a new contract after his exceptional rookie season. The Cardinals rewarded the former second-round pick with a new contract and this time should be no different. However, Boldin may have to wait in line.

Dockett is in only the second year of a five-year contract extension he signed during the 2006 season. While Chicago Bears Pro Bowl DT Tommie Harris recently signed a four-year $40 million contract, Dockett is unlikely to receive a similar deal at this time. Although Dockett’s performance is comparable to Harris', the Cardinals would prefer to keep Dockett in his current contract. Harris is also represented by Rosenhaus making the situation with Dockett very unpredictable at this point in time.

Addressing the current situations with Boldin and Dockett will be a major key to the team’s success in 2008. The Cardinals can’t afford either player to enter the season disgruntled causing further distractions within the organization. Whether it’s restructuring their current contracts or setting up future negotiations, the Cardinals front office must satisfy two of their most valuable players.