Arizona Cardinals sign Tony Bergstrom

The Arizona Cardinals have signed C/G Tony Bergstrom to a one-year contract.

Tony Bergstrom (6-5 315lbs) is former third round pick out of Utah, who was drafted by the Oakland Raiders in the 2012 NFL Draft. He played both guard and center in Oakland but sustained a season ending injury in the 2013 NFL season. Raiders did not re-sign after his rookie contract expired but he ended up signing with the Houston Texans this past season.

Unfortunately his stay in Houston was cut short. He was released by the Texans on April 13th. He signed with the Texans on a two-year $5.75 million contract last spring but could not beat out Greg Mancz for the starting job. He was released as a cap casualty and his contract was big for a backup offensive linemen.

The 30 year old has been active for 40 games and has started four games in his NFL career.

The addition of Bergstrom bolsters the Cardinals offensive line depth, in both size and experience. The team learned the hard way this past season that depth at the position was essential. The offensive line allowed 41 sacks as a unit in 2016. The Cardinals had to rotate inexperienced offensive linemen into the starting lineup such as John Wetzel and Ulrick John as a result to Jared Veldheer, Evan Mathis, and D.J. Humphries injuries. Carson Palmer is turning 38 years old in December and he should not have been sacked as many times as he did this past season. This signing definitely helps in improving and stabilizing the depth behind the starting five.

The Cardinals continue to improve their offensive line depth not only with this signing but also with their 2017 NFL Draft picks of Dorian Johnson and Will Holden.

With Evan Boehm slated to start at right guard, there is a vacant roster spot behind A.Q. Shipley at the center position. He will have to compete with Lucas Crowley, undrafted free agent center from North Carolina, and any mini camp signee to make the 53-man roster.