Derek Anderson

For all the talk about what Matt Leinart has or hasn’t been during the Cardinals’ offseason work, it’s hard to discount what his head coach is saying publicly about his quarterback.

And what Ken Whisenhunt noted Tuesday, as the Cards started the third of the four-week session for organized team activities, all seemed positive.

“You see it in (Matt’s) confidence, how he runs the huddle and how he sees the plays,” Whisenhunt said. “His reads are much more decisive. He is throwing the ball with confidence. And I think he knows what is in front of him.

“It’s obvious to me he’s more comfortable with the whole process, not just throwing a pass or knowing where guys line up. He understands the concepts of the plays and he has the ability to get us in and out of certain plays, all those things you see more assuredness from him. I am excited with what he has done in the OTAs so far.”

In his play, Leinart has taken a step forward since OTAs began. The idea Leinart understands the concepts may be the most important part of his development, especially at this time of year when pads remain in the locker room and no one hits the quarterback.

A training camp battle is still brewing with strong-armed Derek Anderson in the rear-view mirror. Pay attention to this position battle. Any starting QB with WR Larry Fitzgerald as his #1 WR will have fantasy impact.