The NFL free agency period begins officially on March 11, but vested veteran players that have been released from their contract may sign contracts with teams at any time. The Arizona Cardinals had a visit from one such player -- tight end John Carlson, according to Arizona Republic reporter Kent Somers.
Carlson has been in the league six years, playing his first four with the Seattle Seahawks. He signed a five-year $25 million contract with the Minnesota Vikings before the 2012 season and was cut on Tuesday.
Last season, in 13 games (eight starts), he caught 32 passes for 344 yards and a touchdown. His best season was as a rookie in 2008, when he caught 55 passes for 627 yards.
Arizona, who could lose up to three tight ends to free agency, is looking to upgrade the position. Currently they have only Rob Housler with game experience.
He is 6-5, 256 pounds. Pro Football Focus graded him a +2.7 overall in 2013, with a +2.5 in the passing game and a -3.2 in run blocking.
Would Carlson be a good fit?