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Cards looking for the Quan
Posted by Darren Urban on May 12, 2012 – 9:08 am
The Quan was in the Cardinals' locker room long before the 2011 draft, thanks to Rod Tidwell and "Jerry Maguire." But then the Cardinals refreshed their supply last year when they took linebacker Quan Sturdivant in the sixth round of the draft, a prospect for the inside of the 3-4 alignment that seemed promising.
But Sturdivant never was able to make a serious run at the roster. He was put on the practice squad, and while he stuck around there, he was the lone member of the 2011 draft class to not make the opening day roster (running back Ryan Williams was on injured reserve, but would have been on the team) and couldn't even get a late-season promotion. Now he's taking part as one of nine veterans at rookie minicamp, trying to get the work he didn't get with the lost (to lockout) 2011 offseason.
"I know I'm just as young as (the rookies)," Sturdivant said, laughing, "but I do feel kind of old."
Once the Cards signed Stewart Bradley, the need for Sturdivant wasn't as urgent given the Cards' rotation of starters Daryl Washington and Paris Lenon along with Bradley (who struggled himself) on the inside. It may not have mattered. Sturdivant acknowledged he had a tough time and a "big learning curve" trying to figure out the defense of Ray Horton.
It was also hard watching the rest of the draft class make the team without him. Only Williams, because of the injury, and seventh-round receiver DeMarco Sampson didn't receive significant playing time. Sturdivant's fellow sixth-round pick, nose tackle David Carter, actually was a key component of the defense as a rookie.
"It was hard, because I have always been able to play," Sturdivant said. "Even when I was a freshman in college, I played. (Last year) was a learning experience, and hopefully I have learned enough that this year, I can make the team."
There is a long way to go before that can happen (Sturdivant is also battling key special teamer Reggie Walker at inside linebacker, in addition to the top three guys.) He has embraced the need to be in minicamp this weekend, and came up with an interception in each of the first two practices Friday.
"I just compete and try and get better," Sturdivant said. "I want to learn the defense even more and compete. That's all you can do to get a roster spot.
"The defense, I think I am adjusted to it now. To not have an offseason (last year) … this offseason, I think it'll help a lot."
Tags: minicamp, Quan Sturdivant, Reggie Walker, Stewart Bradley
6 Responses to "Cards looking for the Quan"
By Brent on May 12, 2012 | Reply
It would be really nice to see him put it together and at least make the team this year – the guy seems to have all the tools to make it happen.
By Jesse on May 12, 2012 | Reply
I know it is early, but how well would Quan have to play to beat out the incumbent Reggie Walker?
By Darren Urban on May 12, 2012 | Reply
Jesse —
RE: Quan vs Walker
No idea. Obviously Reggie played well enough last year to beat out Sturdivant. Walker is very smart, which I am sure helps him.
By cdubbbbbbb on May 12, 2012 | Reply
Reggie Walker can play so it's gonna be tough
By William Barry on Jun 24, 2012 | Reply
I think Quan is a real keeper, lets hope he beats out walker!!!
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