The Arizona Cardinals have been working arduously this off-season to prepare for the what could be, “the last big hurrah” for a lot of players and maybe even of the coaching staff. The Cardinals finishing 7-8-1 last season is a constant reminder, an embarrassment, and a place the team and the fans want never to return to again. This upcoming season is supposed to be the season of redemption. What the Cardinals have done already through free-agency as well as the draft, including taking Haason Reddick 13th overall, is a valid indication that the team is on the right track.
“He (Haason Reddick) is a guy who has to work for everything he’s got,” said GM Steve Keim, on the Jim Rome Show. “Being a walk-on at Temple, growing up tough, and he has really, really made a tough situation turn into a success story, and I admire him for that. And that’ll carry on into his NFL career.”
Below is a breakdown of the Cardinals big-time moves this off-season
Arizona Cardinals Latest Big-Time Moves
Going into the draft, the Cardinals appeared to be taking the necessary strides that are needed to try to dominate the NFC West Division and, once again, become a powerhouse in the NFL. Since the draft, Arizona’s latest big-time moves continue in that vain.
Undrafted Rookies
Just days after the official draft, the team took it upon themselves to gobble up any talent the league had somehow left behind. In the process, the Cardinals picked up 17 undrafted rookies. With rookie mini-camp now underway, these overlooked players have been garnered an opportunity to either earn a spot with the Cardinals, or at least show the rest of the league the potential they can provide for a different team.
Highlighting the 17 undrafted rookies to sign with the Cardinals squad are Wisconsin cornerback Sojourn Shelton and Texas A&M quarterback Trevor Knight. Since the signing, at least four players have already been released from the team. Among them are wide receivers Harvey Binford, Marvin Hall, and Chris Hubert, and cornerback/safety Trevon Hartfield.
More Big-time Moves
After being reinstated last week to the NFL, the Cardinals have parted ways with All-Pro linebacker Daryl Washington. Washington’s tenure on defense for the Cardinals was one of visible awe and greatness to come. But the talented defensive back missed three seasons for violating the league drug policy. There is really no telling how well Washington would’ve been able to perform in the upcoming season without actually signing him to the team. But the Cardinals seem to feel this risk would be better left for some other team to take.
In addition to the moves already mentioned, the Cardinals also signed San Francisco 49ers quarterback Blaine Gabbert to the current roster. Gabbert may not be the quarterback of the future for the Cardinals franchise, but as a possible dependable back-up to Carson Palmer, he will do fine. Where Gabbert will reside on the future roster certainly is a question though since the Cardinals already have a reliable back-up in Drew Stanton on the roster.
Looking Ahead
The month of May for the team has been one of acquaintance with the newly signed rookies, work-outs and try-outs, and Organized Team Activities (voluntary). The mandatory full team minicamp is scheduled for June 6th-8th. Undecided as of yet, training camp will begin sometime in mid-July.
Main Photo
