TEMPE, Ariz. -- When an offensive lineman with the size, smarts and potential of Will Holden is available in the NFL Draft, it makes for a relatively easy decision.

The Arizona Cardinals drafted Holden in the fifth round, adding another tackle to their offensive line room. The difference between Holden and the others, however, is he could end up being the long-term replacement at right tackle whenever Jared Veldheer’s time in Arizona comes to an end. Holden is 6-foot-7 -- the same height as Veldheer -- and 312 pounds. He graduated from Vanderbilt in December. And with some time in the weight room, Holden could find himself competing for a starting job in the future.

Where he fits: While Veldheer and D.J. Humphries occupy the two starting tackle positions, Holden won’t likely see time on the first team unless an injury forces him into the lineup. In the meantime, he’ll try to compete for a job in the rotation against a crowded field of tackles that currently numbers four, aside from the two starters. Holden could play his way into the coveted swing-tackle role, which would mean he’d dress on game days. A background that includes playing right guard as well as left could give him an advantage against the other offensive linemen.

What he said: “They told me they want me to play tackle,” Holden said. “They have me slotted as a tackle, which will be nice. But I am ready to get in there and compete for a job whether that is at tackle or guard.”

What they said: “Yeah, I think that he is one of those guys that, is he ideally a left tackle? What is ideal?” asked general manager Steve Keim. “A guy that has rare natural knee bend, length and athleticism. Are either of those guys [Holden or Veldheer] that? No, but they are good technicians and they understand how to get by whatever limitations they have so they can play left and they can play right. They can also move inside if they have to, that may be a good comparison.”