The most recent NFC West mailbag sought context for perceptions that Matt Leinart could be sinking in Arizona at least in part because the Cardinals' head coach, Ken Whisenhunt, did not draft him.



Leinart played into those perceptions Monday by telling reporters he has outplayed the other quarterbacks in camp. Further, Leinart suggested Whisenhunt made the change to Derek Anderson for the third exhibition game for reasons that "probably go beyond football" -- such as Leinart not being Whisenhunt's guy, to cite the most obvious inference.

Whisenhunt cannot be happy with such insinuations. The coach's comments Monday, as relayed by Darren Urban of azcardinals.com via the link above:

I think we have been consistent, always trying to pick the best team and pick the best players to try and win. That’s what this process is about, not whether you like somebody or don’t like somebody. It’s more about what you feel is right for the team. I have great affection for Matt and the way he has worked and what he has gone through, so I want to dispel that right away.

Whisenhunt speaks credibly on the subject. He attached conditions to Kurt Warner's starting status and he is doing the same for Leinart. One difference, however, is that Warner knew precisely what he needed to do: protect the football. Warner's close relationship with former coordinator Todd Haley gave him a direct link and better feel for the head coach. Leinart says he wants to know what more he can do; the fact that he doesn't know isn't a good sign. He sounds insecure and possibly in denial.

Could there be better communication between head coach and quarterback? No doubt. But Whisenhunt says he has thought through his approach to the matter. He wants to see how both quarterbacks react to the situation. Holding Leinart's hand through the process isn't part of the experiment. We can debate whether Whisenhunt is taking the approach most likely to get the most from Leinart, but it's tough to question his motives or track record. It's also worth pointing out that both quarterbacks improved their performance Saturday night, to the benefit of the team.