Cardinals left guard Mike Iupati is likely to undergo arthroscopic knee surgery this week that would sideline him for 6-8 weeks, a source tells Adam Schefter of ESPN.com (on Twitter). Iupati joined Arizona on a substantial free agent deal this season with the expectation that he would bolster the interior of their offensive line. He still figures to be a difference maker for the Cards, but his debut won’t come until October or later.
The Raiders were said to be “hot after” Iupati this offseason and he also had serious interest from the Bills and Jets. The Cardinals, meanwhile, weren’t really mentioned as a leading suitor for his services, but they were lurking in the shadows and on March 11th, they agreed to sign him to a five-year, $40MM pact. At one time, 2013 first-round choice Jonathan Cooper was expected to hold down the fort at guard, but so far he hasn’t realized his potential, so the Iupati signing made a lot of sense for the Cards.
The three-time Pro Bowler graded out as the 14th best guard in the NFL out of 78 qualified players, according to the advanced metrics at Pro Football Focus (subscription required). Iupati, a former first-round pick who’s started missed only five games during his career, is regarded as a much better run-blocker than pass-blocker.
Tough loss for a team with legitimate championship aspirations. Larsen is listed as the next man up on the depth chart, but outside of his familiarity with the offense, that’s not a great option, particularly when paired with Shipley at center. Since Iuptati is expected back this season, Mathis is likely not an option, though.
Rough day on the practice fields across the league. This was easily the best player injured, though Benjamin’s setback will have the biggest effect. I suppose they could do worse (the Chiefs’ depth chart comes to mind in light of their maladies up front) than having a guy with 47 starts having to step in temporarily.
What the heck u talking about? Benjamin way better player than iupati. Iupati is over rated he sucks in pass protection and he holds more than any guard I’ve ever seen. And the part about the Chiefs I don’t get what u saying at all????????????
This Cardinals offensive line just looks worse and worse by the day. First they lose Massie for three games, and now Iupati. Besides Veldheer, the entire front five is a question mark.