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Boston is only one of two of Arizona's last 11 first rounders who didn't holdout. Two of those who did hold out were supposed to be powerful defensive linemen just like Wendell Bryant. Those players are Andre Wadsworth and Simeon Rice. Wadsworth was the third player selected after Peyton Manning and Ryan Leaf. At the time, getting Wadsworth was supposed to be part of the greatest trade in Arizona history.

The Cardinals traded the second pick in the draft to San Diego for the third pick, linebacker Patrick Sapp, kick returner Eric Metcalf, and another draft pick. The Cardinals felt they already had a quarterback in Jake Plummer, so what did they need with Leaf? Though Plummer hasn't been spectacular, Leaf's already out of the NFL. So the Cardinals made the right choice and drafted Wadsworth, an All-American out of Florida State. The organization was very excited to have him, so why didn't they sign him until the preseason was already over?

Owner Bill Bidwill doesn't like huge signing bonuses. He also doesn't like voidable years in contracts. Of course, every other NFL team allows them, so the Cardinals continue to be out of step. They shouldn't even bother to select in the first round, if a holdout is inevitable.

Two things happen when a Cardinals' rookie holds out. His first season is terrible, and he wants to leave the organization as soon as contract runs out. Andre Wadsworth wanted to leave, but a knee injury prematurely ended his NFL career before he could. Another first round holdout did get a chance to leave after badmouthing the organization. That player is Simeon Rice.

Rice put up some impressive numbers as an Arizona defensive end. He was sacking quarterbacks in every game. He couldn't stop the run, however, and became frustrated with not being an every down player. He also became tired of the Cardinals' losing ways. He's right, and yet he was -- as a top five pick -- supposed to be a major part of turning that record around.

He didn't, complained, and left for Tampa Bay. Rice is a flawed football player, but he's talented and spirited. Getting his career with Arizona off to a bad start didn't make any sense for Cardinals' management. Yet they did it and will continue to.

It's unlikely Wendell Bryant will have an outstanding rookie year. He's been a holdout, too much will be expected of him right away, and he'll have very little help on a thin defensive line. When Bryant was drafted, Cardinals' Head Coach Dave McGinnis was very excited about Bryant's potential. At least as a member of the Cardinals, he'll probably never fulfill that promise.

So Vikings fans, make sure to let Minnesota management know that it's okay to fight with Bryant McKinney about his contract. Just don't make it a habit, though, or the Vikings may turn into the Cardinals, an organization that's won only one playoff game in five decades.

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