TEMPE, Ariz. – While Wednesday’s news conference was about the Cardinals’ new left tackle, head coach Bruce Arians hinted toward who’ll replace the recently departed Karlos Dansby at inside linebacker.

And, apparently, the Cardinals won’t have to look past last year’s second-round draft pick, Kevin Minter.

“We drafted him for a reason,” Arians said. “We love him. He should assume that role.”

Minter played just one snap on defense while sitting behind Daryl Washington and Dansby last season, waiting in the wings even during Washington’s four-game suspension. Minter's chance may come this year at left inside linebacker, the position vacated by Dansby. But it’s not guaranteed.

Arians said the Cardinals will still look for linebackers in free agency and may give Lorenzo Alexander a shot at earning the job. Alexander, who was signed as an outside linebacker, has also played inside, Arians said. In Week 3 last year, Alexander suffered a Lisfranc injury and missed the rest of the season. He's expected to be healthy for training camp.

“That’s what we love about him is his flexibility,” Arians said.