Breaking Down the Arizona Cardinals Roster: Specialists

Aug 29, 2013; Denver, CO, USA; Arizona Cardinals kicker Jay Feely (4) reacts to his fifty two yard field goal during the second quarter of a preseason game against the Denver Broncos at Sports Authority Field. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports

Our final position by position look with the Arizona Cardinals on the 53-man roster takes us to the special teams.  There are no changes to the specialists, although that isn’t for a lack of trying.  What you saw in 2012 though is what you’ll get in 2013.

Specialists: Jay Feely – kicker, Dave Zastudil – punter, Mike Leach – long snapper

Feely is the kicker for this season, however he struggled early in the preseason.  Coach Bruce Arians decided to light a fire under Feely for a few days in preseason week number three.  Just days before the third preseason game against the San Diego Chargers, Arians decided to bring in another kicker.  Dan Carpenter was signed to a one-year deal.  This was after Feely had missed a couple of field goals through the first two weeks.  Ironically, it was Carpenter who took Feely’s job in 2008 in Miami. Carpenter lasted all of one preseason field goal attempt though.  He had it blocked and the next day he was cut.  So, at least for now, it’s Feely’s job.

As for Zastudil, no one was better than pinning opponents inside the 20 last season.  That could be construed as a good thing or a bad thing depending on your point of view.  They punted alot, however when called upon he got the job done.  No reason to tinker with that.

Leach is going into his 14th season in the NFL.  This will be his fifth with the Cardinals.  He’s good at what he does.  Again, why fix something that isn’t broke?