Nick

Leckey

Leckey played in all 16 games last season, but has not played a down at center since preseason last year. ''I am really comfortable at center. Last year, it was good to sit and learn from Alex, and now I get to do my thing,’' Leckey said. ''I have some big shoes to fill with Alex down, he’s a good friend of mine and it is unfortunate but that’s how it goes.’'

Arizona heads to the season with its starting front five intact.

Arizona stayed reasonably healthy in thier first preaseason game besides their backup center’s injury. Chike Okeafor will head for an MRI for a biceps injury.

Leckey has 20 career starts and is only 25 years old. He’ll back up Brett Romberg at center because Andy McCollum is now starting at left guard.

Leckey is expected to be healthy in time for training camp. The Saints also lost undrafted center Alex Fletcher from Stanford, who was forced to retire because of a career-threatening kidney condition. All of these players are competing for roster spots and are of little significance.

Chase Daniel has been signed off the practice squad to be the emergency quarterback, so a corresponding move had to be made. Leckey will probably be re-signed on Monday or Tuesday and Daniel will be sent back to the practice squad.

Leckey was just released last week to make room for QB Chase Daniel. He’ll provide depth on the interior at guard and center.

Incumbent Brett Romberg hasn’t recovered from a broken hand suffered early in camp, Mark Setterstrom is on I.R., and Richie Incognito is now a guard.