Assuming Anquan Boldin isn't with the team of course.
We've beat the Anquan Boldin trade drum for the last three seasons now, and it seems inevitable that things may change in 2010. Boldin is entering the final season of his contract and it seems more then likely that he'll be dealt before April's upcoming draft.
In the meantime, wide receiver Steve Breaston waits patiently to hear whether or not if he'll enter training camp as the Cardinals 2nd string receiver. Breaston is set to become a restricted free agent in a few weeks, so it's all but guaranteed that he'll be offered a tender. The Cardinals would be wise however, to aim for a long-term deal.
Without Breaston, the Cardinals would find themselves in an interesting predicament with an unproven Early Doucet, and butterfingers Jerheme Urban. Luckily, Breaston's job will be his for the taking.
Breaston was drafted in the 5th round of 2007 with the hopes of developing into a Devin Hester-like kick/punt returner. He wound up in a bigger role when he caught over 1,000 yards the very next year. In '09, his production dropped to just 55 receptions and 712 yards, but his role on the team was pivotal nonetheless.
The Cardinals are reportedly going to hand the ball off to Beanie Wells and Tim Hightower more next year, but considering Breaston will see the spotlight more, I'll assume that he's set for a dominant year. He's fought through injuries in the past and I can't imagine he'd miss as much time as Boldin has before. With the constant double coverage that Larry Fitzgerald sees, Breaston will be the man benefiting and making the plays.
Of course, all of this hinges on the success Matt Leinart may or may not have. Breaston will assume the burner role, while Early Doucet will take over the physical duties that Boldin will leave behind. With Breaston as the deep threat, I think we'll see a new career high in touchdowns(current is 3), and his yards per catch will certainly increase. What are your thoughts on Steve Breaston and do you see a dominant year for him in 2010? What kind of numbers will he have?