"It's time for everyone - fans, teammates and even the Cardinals quarterback himself - to let Matt Leinart live in the present.

He has served his penance, awaited his chance in a purgatory defined by a metal sideline bench. The sooner this mutual acceptance takes shape, the better his chances of leading the Cardinals to a third consecutive NFC West title.

This is a different team. While Leinart was taking snaps on the Northern Arizona campus Saturday afternoon, it was nighttime in Italy, where a vacationing Kurt Warner was likely sawing tronchi in an Italian pensione. Gone, too, are Anquan Boldin, Karlos Dansby and Antrel Rolle.

"I'm just excited to play," Leinart said. "It's been a long time, and I've learned so much. I feel fully prepared. I just want to go out there and play and perform."

The vibe about Leinart around the organization is interesting. Encouraged but cautious. No one has anything but praise for his work ethic and off-the-field commitment the past two seasons.

Strength coach John Lott said Leinart is "stronger than he's ever been" and praised his workouts. Quarterback Derek Anderson, who the Cardinals signed as an insurance policy in the off-season, has pushed him, too."