Week one of training camp is near an end and the Arizona Cardinals have been hard at work. The team is learning new systems, adjusting to new coaches, and integrating new players. It is too early to tell who will be around for the season opener, but players are fighting for spots at every position. This week we take a look at who have been grabbing headlines coming out of University of Phoenix Stadium.
Josh Rosen
The 2018 first round selection came into training camp as the presumptive backup behind free agent signee Sam Bradford. However, the rookie has impressed both coaches and teammates with his physical skills as well as his football intelligence.His play has prompted head coach Steve Wilks to announce that Rosen will have every chance to win the starting job. Wilks is likely just pushing both Rosen and Bradford to be at their best. It will be interesting to see if the rookie can continue to make a push to get more first team reps.
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Markus Golden
Golden was the team’s sack leader in 2016. In 2017 he went down with a torn ACL early in the season. Ten months later the pass rusher continues to work his way back to the field. Not all ACL tears are the same. Eagles quarterback Carson Wentz has been on the field and participating in position drills. Golden’s position places a premium on speed and lateral movement. It also requires bend around the corner. Golden has not yet taken part in full drills, although the focus is on bringing him back slowly.
Sam Bradford
The veteran quarterback is set to earn about $20 million in 2018. Just a few practices into training camp and Bradford has wowed crowds with his accuracy and big arm. Bradford has received veteran days off, a wise move to avoid unnecessary strain on his surgically repaired knees. The former first overall pick has laid his claim to the starting job. It may be early, but Bradford looks to be another shrewd veteran signing by general manager Steve Keim.
#AZCardinals first offensive play in training camp. #CardsCamp pic.twitter.com/TLFYoQqyOE
— Mike Jurecki (@mikejurecki) July 28, 2018
David Johnson
Johnson made it to training camp. The biggest question mark heading into camp was answered when the talented running back entered the building last Friday. Johnson immediately showed why he is considered one of the best backs in the NFL. On the team’s first play in training camp, Johnson took the handoff and blew past the defense for an electrifying touchdown run. He has looked sharp and ready to be the focal point of Mike McCoy’s offense. What comes of Johnson’s contract dispute with the team remains to be seen, but the Cardinals are glad he is on the field and ready for the season to begin.
It’s just the first week but there are things to be excited about. The Cardinals have a lot of work left to do with the first preseason game a week away. Training camp is off to a fast start and the team will look to keep the momentum going. Football is officially back for 2018.
– Ryan Adverderada is the Managing Editor for Full Press Coverage Cardinals. Like and follow on Follow @ryanadverderada Follow @Cardinals and Facebook.
