PHOENIX -- Evan Boehm's adjustment to playing right guard full time for the Arizona Cardinals will come in steps.
First, he has to grasp the mental side of his new position. Then, he has to master the physical components.
"Mentally, I'm getting there," Boehm said. "There's still some technique stuff I need to be working on. I'm getting there, and every day's a learning day. I'm trying to get better each day I step out onto the field."
Boehm, who was drafted as a center in the fourth round last year, has limited experience at right guard. He was thrust into that starting role in Week 17 after Taylor Boggs went on injured reserve, part of an injury-laden season for the offensive line. With last year's presumptive starting right guard Evan Mathis having retired, it's Boehm's job.
In March, Cardinals coach Bruce Arians said Boehm would be the starter there this season.
Boehm quickly noticed the differences between center and right guard.
"The biggest thing is the technique," Boehm said. "Center helped me because you had to know how to kick both ways. I didn't know how to kick in a right-handed stance. There's still some things I have to work on."
As his transition continues, Boehm is receiving help from both sides.
To Boehm's right is tackle Jared Veldheer, who's going through a transition of his own, playing right tackle for the first time since his junior year of high school. To Boehm's left is veteran center A.Q. Shipley, who was rewarded with a multi-year contract this offseason, his first as an every-down offensive lineman.
With OTAs being the right-side trio's first opportunity to work together, they've been focused on how to better communicate with each other. Boehm said there's been progress each week.
"You have two smart football players right there," Boehm said. "If I get a year or two playing between those guys, I feel it'll prepare me for a lot in my future."
