Arizona Cardinals: Reviewing the Tight Ends

Aug 9, 2014; Glendale, AZ, USA; Arizona Cardinals tight end John Carlson (89) runs into the end zone ahead of Houston Texans linebacker Jadeveon Clowney (90) during a preseason game at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

The Arizona Cardinals ended up keeping four tight ends on the final 53-man roster Saturday.  It has been pretty much a  forgone conclusion who those four men would be after the retirement of Jake Ballard a few weeks ago.

John Carlson – During OTA’s, quarterback Carson Palmer had all kinds of great things to say about the addition of Carlson.  Carlson had some strong seasons in Seattle and was with Minnesota previous to Arizona.  The trick will be to keep him healthy.

Troy Niklas – He has good hands and will need to be the strong blocker the Cards believe him to be.  The rookie will have a lot to learn but he has a lot of upside that should keep him around for years.

Darren Fells – Fells had a great preseason.  We’ve all heard the basketball turned to football story now, so no need to re-hash it here but for a kid who did do that, he has been pretty darn good and hopefully can make a positive impact in the regular season.

Rob Housler – Very quiet in the preseason.  His job was probably saved by the retirement of Ballard.  I wish Housler nothing but the best but unless one of the other three guys gets injured, I’m not too sure how much we hear from his this season?  We’ll see.