LJ Shelton Released by Cardinals

After unsuccessfully trying to trade 6'6" 335 lb. tackle LJ Shelton, the Cardinals have released him. Given the total lack of any significant news coming out of Redskins' Park, I thought I'd start a new "what if" thread.

Shelton is likely to be highly sought after, and for good reason. If we had the money to go after him, I'd be all for it. Shelton can play both tackle and guard and is a run-blocking beast. I'd love to see him lined up next to Samuels at left guard. Samuels, Shelton, Rabach, Thomas, and Jansen would arguably comprise the best offensive line the NFL and could really pave the way for Portis.

What do you guys think?

Its hard to say. I think this year is the first year we can really judge, and be highly critical of Derrick Dockery, so I would lean towards now. Even though Shelton would certainly be a upgrade, its hard to say how Dockery will come along; and it could prove to be wasted money. That being said, if this guy wasent expensive, I'd say yes for sure. But with the price tag he'll carry, even if we had the jack, I'd say no.

The money just isn't there. He'll command a good amount of money. I do think he'd be an upgrade but it is somewhat telling that they couldn't trade him and now he is released. Quality players with good attitudes don't usually get released unless there are some issues. I'd like to know why.

I'd go for him if we could afford him, but we can't (and I don't think there is any level of maneuvering (sp?) that would allow us to), so it's probably a moot point. Shame though, replacing Dockery with him would make for a pretty rediculous line.

LJ Shelton can thank Chris Samuels for his release. The financial precedent set by him (and Walter Jones of Seattle) made his price tag climb out of the Cardinals preferred range.

Shelton is very good, still young, and will have a very good career.

The Cardinals are SUCH a bunch of cheap bastards. Aren't they like $10M under the cap? Why give up on a proven player, other than the owner would rather pocket the TV money and continue to field a shitty team. Is it any wonder the CArdinals stadium is always empty except when they play the Cowboys.

The Cardinals are SUCH a bunch of cheap bastards. Aren't they like $10M under the cap? Why give up on a proven player, other than the owner would rather pocket the TV money and continue to field a shitty team. Is it any wonder the CArdinals stadium is always empty except when they play the Cowboys.

My understanding is that it was more about him being in Denny Green's doghouse than anything else. But you are right, the Cardnals are definitely cheap bastards.

I'd pass

He'll want LT money, not LG money.

We have put about as much money into the O-Line as we can spare. 4 of 5 are strong, we just have to hope the coaches can mold Dochery.