Former Mizzou QB Blaine Gabbert struggled in his limited work as the San Francisco 49ers starter last year before losing his job to Colin Kaepernick.

Now, he’s trying to hold on to a roster spot as the Arizona Cardinals’ third-string quarterback.

However, Arizona coach Bruce Arians has liked what he’s seen from the former Tiger, telling AZCardinals.com that he’d be comfortable with having Gabbert as the team’s starter in an emergency this year:

“I’ve been very pleased,” Arians said. “Short-term, I’d be very comfortable if he had to play for us. Long-term, if he continues at this rate, he could be a starter.”

Even starting QB Carson Palmer said Gabbert is a talented quarterback who has an impressive skill set:

“I had worked out with him a handful of times a couple of years ago in the offseason,” Palmer said. “Very aware of his skill-set. He’s as talented as it gets throwing the football and moving around in the pocket and on the run. I haven’t been surprised.”

The Cardinals finish up their preseason schedule on Thursday night against the Denver Broncos.

Gabbert should get some more action in that game to prove he deserves to be on the opening day roster for the Cardinals.