Cardinals' Arians defends Gabbert's reputation, blames former teams

Warning: Story contains coarse language

Arizona Cardinals head coach Bruce Arians is comfortable starting Blaine Gabbert against the Houston Texans on Sunday, defending his quarterback's reputation.

Gabbert became a punchline after his abysmal stints with the Jacksonville Jaguars and San Francisco 49ers, but Arians believes he received an unfair rap.

"He was on really shitty teams," said Arians, via ESPN's Josh Weinfuss.

Gabbert is thrust into the starting role with Carson Palmer and Drew Stanton both nursing injuries.

"I can honestly say this is the best feeling I've ever had about playing a third quarterback. If he plays, I feel really good about it," Arians said.

Gabbert last played for the 49ers in 2016, completing 56.9 percent of his passes for 925 yards, five touchdowns, and six interceptions.