The motivation to extend Warner's contract, which expires after this season, is there for both sides, yet they remain fair apart in negotiations.

The central problem is Warner's role and compensation. If Warner is the backup, the Cardinals want to pay him as such. If Warner becomes the starter, Warner wants to be paid as such.

But what critieria is used to define being a starter? Is it being the starter on opening day? For five games? For eight?

"The way I played last year, I think proves that I'm one of the better quarterbacks in the league and would deserve to be paid at that level if I'm in that position (starting)," Warner said. "Not that we're completely not willing to work with them if I'm not. I'm not here to make starter's money if I'm not a starter."

But Warner isn't a typical backup, either. The Cardinals have asked him to assume a leadership role, and team officials have said numerous times that he's a valuable mentor to Matt Leinart.

What's that worth? And what's it worth to have a two-time league MVP as a backup, a guy who passed for 27 touchdowns last year?

Warner is making $4 million this year, and it's hard to see him agreeing to take less than that.

"I think there are some assets I bring as a backup that are unique and maybe allow to be in position to be compensated in that regard even if I'm a backup. That's where it stands."

Warner isn't worrying about it. He's leaving that to his agent, Mark Bartelstein. "I'm one of those guys who believes that you go out and do what you do, and it all takes care of itself."

CAMP CALENDAR: Camp ends Aug. 21; Aug. 13 - Night practices; All training camp practices will be held at Northern Arizona University and are open and free to the public.