While the euphoria is still high and before our attention is dominated by the NFC Championship Game match-ups, let me toss out this "centerfold" of mental masterbation:

Do you think Rod Graves and the Cardinals now have a better bargaining position for Free Agents this year?

Adam Scheffler reported last week the Cardinals will be $41 million under the cap next year, $47 million if Edgerrin James is released.  That's a lot of wiggle room.

Part of the reason is due to our own players that become Free Agents in March.  Wouldn't you think that this season's ultimate results make staying in the desert a much more attractive option?  As weak as the NFC West was this year, doesn't it seem likely that the Cardinals should be the favourite to win it again next year?  Another playoff run?

Then consider how alluring the franchise would be to Free Agents from elsewhere?  In particular, to a talented running back free agent that would be happy to share carries with Hightower?  Or to a sack specialist?

As much as the Cardinals' playoff run has been about changing perceptions of the NFL fan about the team, it's also about changing the perceptions of the players in the league.  The Cardinals, the large, hairy mole on the face of the NFL, is getting a major face lift and mole removal.  This isn't your father's (or grandfather's) Cardinals team.

So mull this thought over in the back of your mind and let's revisit this after the Pro-Bowl.  If you have something at the front of your mind that cannot wait, let's hear it.