Leinart's agent, Tom Condon, confirmed the agreement Monday, saying Leinart will take a physical, sign the contract and join the team later in the day, as reported by The Associated Press.
Back in 2006, the Cardinals were thrilled when they drafted two-time national champion, but injuries slowed his development and he replaced as a starter by veteran Kurt Warner. The coaching staff hoped the young QB would pick up a few pointers from Warner, but were disappointed with his progression in the league. That disappointment reached a boiling point last week when Leinart spoke out about the team's decision to start Derek Anderson over him in preseason games.
Leinart publicly expressed frustration in the team's decision to start Anderson — who was acquired from the Cleveland Browns in March — claiming he had outplayed Anderson in training camp. He also believed head coach Ken Whisenhunt had ulterior motives in not giving him the start, citing problems "away from football."
The public comments prompted a private meeting between Leinart and Whisenhunt, just days before the final cut on Saturday. It had already been speculated the Cardinals were trying to trade Leinart, but few teams expressed interest in the collegiate superstar. Despite any "problems" between the two, Whisenhunt praised Leinart's professionalism during the meeting.
"The one thing I want to make very clear is how professional Matt was about the whole situation," Whisenhunt said. "I was very impressed with his conversation with me. He thanked the organization, the ownership, for all the time and effort that they had invested in him. He felt like he had gotten better and he had learned a lot and it meant a lot to me to hear him say that."
The contract details with Houston were not disclosed, and Leinart will likely serve behind starter Matt Schaub and backup Dan Orlovsky. He has the potential to move ahead of Orlovsky as the primary backup depending on his adaptation to the Cardinals offense. The Texans open their season against the Colts at Reliant Stadium on Sunday.
In 29 games through four seasons in Arizona, Leinart threw for 3,893 yards with 14 touchdowns and 20 interceptions.
