Takeaways from Cardinals minicamp
The Arizona Cardinals have concluded their offseason program and now head into their summer break for a few weeks before training camp commences.
They held their mandatory minicamp this week and OTAs last week.
What can we take away from the two weeks when (almost) the whole team was in the building?
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The team is healthy
While there have been a few injuries around the league, the Cardinals got out of minicamp clean. Tight end Maxx Williams is healthy after being banged up all last year. Jalen Thompson is healthy. Jordan Phillips is healthy. New cornerback Darqueze Dennard has a minor ankle injury that kept him out of the final practice Thursday. Dennis Gardeck is progressing well in his recovery from a torn ACL. The Cardinals should enter training camp without injury concerns.
J.J. Watt's impact is felt
Between how he carries himself on the field in practice, his visibility and what everyone is saying about him, he is already making a mark on the Cardinals. There is an energy that follows him. He is already a leader and wherever he is, he commands attention.
Chandler Jones' absence is looming
Entering the final year of his contract, Jones did not participate in voluntary OTAs and did not practice during minicamp. He likely was in the building, as he participated in media day and photoshoots, but at this point, we can call it a holdout. The major question is whether or not this will bleed into training camp as well.
Jordan Hicks is unhappy
He was asked to take a pay cut early in the offseason. Then the Cardinals drafted his replacement in Zaven Collins and all but gave him Hicks' starting job before ever competing in practice. Hicks has been given permission to seek a trade, but so far there is nothing. It doesn't look like he plans on being on the roster as of right now.
Kyler Murray becoming more of a leader
Before now, sometimes Murray's leadership has been questioned. He recently said he has been working on his leadership. Teammates are commenting about it and so is Kliff Kingsbury.
The team is locked in
After the disappointment of missing the postseason after a 5-2 start, the players are honed in on improving and winning. There is an almost palpable focus and intensity surrounding the team.
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