Shipp Has Sailed for Cardinals

After seven years, the Arizona Cardinals have decided to part ways with RB Marcel Shipp. The cut allowed the Cardinals to make room for free agent guard/center Jasper Harvey, which addresses the pressing concerns concerning injuries to the offensive line. The cut is good news for rookie Tim Hightower who possibly just landed a No. 2 role.

Marcel Shipp has seen it all with the Cardinals. The good, the bad and the “this is our year,” but after seven years he will look for employment elsewhere.

With the lack of production and offseason shenanigans, most thought J.J. Arrington would be the back that the Cardinals parted ways with, but Shipp ended up being too much like rookie running back Tim Hightower for his own good.

Both are the bigger, slower, between the tackles type of guys. Arrington will likely see most of his action on kick returns and special teams, whereas Hightower could see field time behind the aging, yet still productive Edgerrin James.

The big question is how long it will take for Hightower to mold into the Cardinals primary ball carrier.

Another looming subject is the offensive line. Center Al Johnson is expected back by the Cardinals season opener, but some have their doubts. His backup Scott Peters was carted off the field at training camp last week with a season ending injury (left knee). Center Patt Ross was picked up, but neither Ross nor the newest addition, Jasper Harvey, have the prestige that the Cardinals would like starting at center.

Lyle Sendlein could be the Cardinals best shot if Johnson doesn’t make a speedy recovery.