Max Hall needs some luck to make it in Phoenix

To make the Arizona Cardinals roster after camp begins in a few weeks, Max Hall will need to beat the odds.

First, he'll need the Cardinals to keep four quarterbacks, and that doesn't happen very often. If he beats out a guy, that will help, but can he bank on that?

Second, he'll need to grow a few inches and put on at least 25 pounds. And that isn't going to happen.

In short, Hall, the winningest QB in BYU history, needs the Cardinals to decide they can't let this native son go. That he's needed on the team for all his intangibles and competitive spirit. They must gamble that, if called upon, Hall will make plays.

There is a formula for how teams pick NFL quarterbacks. It's a proven prototype body composition that scouts look for. It isn't a Ty Detmer or Hall size. It seems the 6-foot-5, 225-pound athlete with an extremely strong arm for those quick out routes is a minimum standard in the NFL. Others need not apply.

Despite the fact Hall did not get drafted this year, he's currently working as a free agent with the Cardinals where his agent believes he's definitely turned heads.

Eric Metz, who represents Hall, was in Provo this week for the NFL pro day workout of another Cougar, Harvey Unga. Metz told local reporters he can't believe Hall didn't get drafted, but Arizona loves him.

"Absolutely, Max has a chance," said Metz. "Max is doing real well down in Arizona."

Metz is close friends with Arizona coach Ken Whisenhunt (whom he also represents), and he's hearing good things.

"Coach Whisenhunt really likes him. It wouldn't surprise me if Max had a Drew Brees-like career. It wouldn't shock me one bit," Metz said. "The only thing that shocked me is he wasn't drafted. He is far too talented to not get drafted.

"I am sure Kurt Warner and Jeff Garcia and some other guys will tell you the same thing. I think Max will do quite well for himself."

Metz named most of Arizona's offensive staff and said they've told him they're trying to convince "Whis" to keep four quarterbacks.

You have only to look at Arizona's quarterbacks to see how Hall's size (6-1, 201 pounds) goes against the grain. Matt Leinert and Derek Anderson are both 6-6 and John Skelton is 6-5.

Metz praised Hall for the attitude and skills he brings to the game. Metz has represented other BYU athletes and he says in general the Cougar athletes bring a very good reputation to the league.