Pat

McQuistan

They waived UDFA tackle Taylor Dever in a corresponding move. McQuistan will vie for Dallas’ No. 3 job behind Doug Free, Tyron Smith, and Jermey Parnell.

Dallas’ seventh-round pick in the 2006 draft, McQuistan has bounced around the league and spent last season in New Orleans. He could be signed for depth.

The seven-year veteran was among Dallas’ final cuts. McQuistan appeared in only 10 games for the Saints last season — and has made just eight career starts — but will provide veteran depth for Arizona’s woefully thin and inexperienced line. McQuistan could end up seeing heavy snaps in the desert.

Butler’s release is a sign that CBs Michael Adams and Greg Toler are close to full health. McQuistan will give the Cardinals another option behind struggling starters D’Antony Batiste and Bobby Massie.

McQuistan beat out ex-Seahawks tackle Ray Willis for the opportunity. He’ll give the Saints some versatile depth with RT Zach Strief (knee) sidelined.

Signed on October 30, McQuistan had yet to be active. G/C Kevin Matthews is taking his roster spot.

McQuistan ran with the first team while Flozell Adams (knee) rehabbed. His roster spot seems safe despite James Marten and Doug Free’s additions.

Every offseason surgery is called minor, but Adams didn’t need this. His play was already in decline, he has a big salary, and the Cowboys have upgraded at tackle in the draft. He is expected to be ready for training camp.

Adams is in the final year of his contract and whoever earns the backup job could easily be starting in 2008. Expect both youngsters to get considerable playing time this preseason as the Cowboys get a feel for their future at the position.

Colombo played through the sprained left ankle suffered early against the Packers, but it has continued to bother him. Pat McQuistan would start in his absence.