NFL Trade Rumors: Is Kevin Kolb to Arizona Cardinals Already a Done Deal?

The Arizona Cardinals knew exactly what their plans were going to be at quarterback for the 2011 season from the get-go, even though it took many experts a while to realize it. Instead of drafting a quarterback, since they have an established regime in place, they planned to grab a quarterback in free agency.

Since the lockout prevents free agent signings and trades, they cannot simply sign a quarterback now. Despite this, it seems like the next Arizona Cardinals quarterback has already been decided, likely to the relief of Larry Fitzgerald.

That person is Philadelphia Eagles backup quarterback Kevin Kolb, who has seemed ready to walk for some time now. He is still under contract, but that is not something that worries either side.

According to Adam Schefter earlier today, the Arizona Cardinals are already "overwhelming favorites" to win Kolb, and it makes sense. He showed great promise in Philadelphia, and Larry Fitzgerald has an experienced target that can throw to him.

While there are many other possibilities for the Cardinals, such as Kyle Orton and Marc Bulger, Kevin Kolb makes the most sense for the Cardinals. Why is that?

Well, he hasn't hit his peak yet, which I believe the others have, and he could end up being a great quarterback for them for a couple years. Adding in an older quarterback like Bulger would signify to Larry Fitzgerald that they are going to be rebuilding in a year or two, and he'll be on his way out.

The Cardinals are just a couple years removed from making an appearance in the Super Bowl, so going into rebuilding mode already is not an option for head coach Ken Whisenhunt. Acquiring Kolb gives the Cardinals the best chance to prevent that.

Having said all that, it's clear that I don't have to convince them. The Cardinals and Eagles already discussed the framework of a trade during the draft, and once the lockout is lifted, this is almost a certainty.

At this point, I would be shocked if Kolb was not in an Arizona Cardinals uniform for the 2011 season. It's a great fit, and even if it doesn't work out, he will likely put up better numbers than what the other quarterbacks did anyway.