Arizona Cardinals DT Darnell Dockett Tears ACL

Dec 29, 2013; Phoenix, AZ, USA; Arizona Cardinals defensive tackle Darnell Dockett (90) against the San Francisco 49ers at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

It was the news many of us feared but knew could be the outcome when he was carted off the field today but Arizona Cardinals defensive tackle Darnell Dockett tore his ACL in practice on Monday.  He will miss the 2014 season.  Dockett, in his 11th NFL season, has been a model of good health.  He’s missed just two games due to injury, four overall, in his 10-year career up to this point.

Dockett had 46 tackles and 4.5 sacks last season for the Cards, starting all 16 games.  However the loss isn’t just on the field, it is off the field as well.  Sure, he might get himself into hot water from time to time on Twitter, but he has his team’s back.  He is a leader on the field and in the locker room.  Not having him on the field of play is a blow to the Cards defense.

Now it is time to see what his backups can do.  Frostee Rucker, Anthony McCloud, Justin Renfrow, or even defensive end Ed Stinson could end up taking his starting spot this season.  I believe it will be a great competition.  Rucker and Renfrow have looked decent so far in the preseason.

We wish the best for Dockett.  He will be missed greatly by teammates and fans alike.