Max

Komar

It’s odd timing for a release, but in Komar’s own words, he was cut loose because of a “lingering injury that occurred late last season and got progressively worse this offseason.” A former undrafted free agent with nine catches in 10 career games, Komar will have to prove he’s 100 percent before latching on somewhere as a camp body.

Komar, formerly of the Cardinals, will take over as the No. 5 receiver with Sam Hurd waived and Johnny Knox out for the season.

Komar suffered a left knee injury during the preseason. A former undrafted free agent out of Idaho, Komar caught 12 passes for 117 yards last season.

It will come down to the undrafted rookie or third-rounder Andre Roberts. Roberts likely has the edge because he’s been helping out on punt returns lately and is improving as a pass catcher.

The move opens up a spot for RB Alfonso Smith. Komar was unable to capitalize on some early season opportunities, and has been surpassed by WR Andre Roberts on the depth chart.

The lesser known of the Mad Max duo in Arizona, Komar earned the spot by catching 10 balls for 158 yards and a TD in the preseason, with most of the production coming from Max Hall. Komar may be a game-day scratch as a No. 6 receiver, but he’s coming a long way as an undrafted rookie from Idaho.

Komar was waived last week to make room for an extra running back. With Early Doucet nursing a head injury, the Cardinals need the depth at wide receiver once again.

“If I’m uncomfortable at all, then I’ll go with Steve because he’s done it, but I’m still going to look at Andre and Max,” explained Whisenhunt. He won’t make a final decision until after Friday’s practice, and it may not be announced.

Komar has been ahead of third-rounder Andre Roberts since exhibition action. Roberts reportedly had a “great week of practice” last week, so nothing is written in stone. Either way, it’s bad news for Derek Anderson that the offense is now relying on unproven rookies behind Larry Fitzgerald.

Komar fumbled three times last week, losing one. Roberts is fully recovered from a shoulder injury and should have no problem passing Komar on the receiver depth chart and for punt return duties. Neither will move past Stephen Williams for the No. 3 WR gig.