"Anquan Boldin once pleaded to leave the Cardinals organization, all but scratching marks on the walls of the team's practice facility to count the days spent in purgatory.

On Saturday, however, a day after he was traded to the Ravens, Boldin said he had "mixed emotions" about leaving the team and the area after seven years.

"I built a lot of relationships here," said Boldin, the Cardinals' all-time leading receiver. "Professionally, it's the only place I know. It's going to be tough to say goodbye but I'm also looking forward to the future, definitely excited about playing for the Ravens. I feel like I add a piece to their offense."

Oddly enough, Boldin spent part of Saturday at the Cardinals facility, participating in a flag football tournament to benefit former quarterback Kurt Warner's foundation. Like every other athletic endeavor he's tried, Boldin took it seriously, drawing up pass routes and defensive schemes for a corporate-sponsored team.

Boldin's wide smile revealed a set of braces, a remnant of the vicious hit he took two years ago against the Jets.

"I'm going to miss him," said Cardinals receiver Larry Fitzgerald in a subdued voice. "Understatement of the day. Big part of what we were able to accomplish here, a dear friend, but I'm happy for him and his family."

A beautiful Saturday followed a stormy Friday at the team's facility. The Cardinals traded Boldin and a fifth-round pick to the Ravens for third- and fourth-round selections. Inside linebacker Karlos Dansby signed with the Dolphins. Free safety Antrel Rolle signed with the Giants."