The Cardinals' starting offensive line looked good this preseason, but when Steve Wilks talks about strength up front, he isn't limiting it to the first-stringers.
The backup offensive line had some issues during the exhibition slate, which is why the Cardinals coach was willing to churn the roster for better depth. The team signed guard Jeremy Vujnovich and tackle Blaine Causell to the 53-man roster on Sunday while releasing tackle Will Holden and center Evan Boehm.
"Every time I stood in front of you guys (in the media), you guys kept talking about the backups (on the offensive line)," Wilks said. "So, I took your advice, and we tried to look to improve there. We brought in some guys that we felt that had some playing experience, some guys that had started in some games, and I think, again, they fit our mold. They fit our bill. So, we're very pleased with the guys that we added."
Vujnovich started every game for the Colts last season but was released on Saturday. The Cardinals claimed him on waivers.
"It's crazy," Vujnovich said. "All of a sudden, you've got to pick up and move your whole life. But it's for the better. Every chance you get in the NFL is always a blessing."
Injuries have decimated the Cardinals' offensive line the past few seasons. While an inordinate amount of focus is placed on the starters, it's a position where depth is crucial. Players like Vujnovich, Causell, tackle John Wetzel, center Daniel Munyer and tackle Korey Cunningham need to be ready if called upon in 2018.
"You can't be a drag," Vujnovich said. "If somebody goes down, someone needs to step in and still make the offense go."