Former players coaching successfully with Arizona Cardinals
By Jim Koch
With the experience and knowledge they bring to the Arizona Cardinals former NFL players are finding success in the desert
Not just anyone can land a coaching job with the Arizona Cardinals. Head coach Bruce Arians demands alot not only from his players but from his coaching staff as well. It doesn’t hurt when coaches applying for jobs have actually played the game.
Defensive line coach Brentson Buckner is one of the most successful coaches under the Arians coaching tree. He has12 years of playing experience under his belt which has helped his ascent. Anyone who watched the “All or Nothing ” series on Amazon Prime got a good taste of Buckner at work.
Buckner is very vocal and animated, taking a page right out of the Arians coaching handbook. He was entertaining every moment he was on the screen and a highlight of the eight-part series. A defensive coordinator job should certainly be in his future.
Kevin Ross is a former two-time Pro Bowler who’s in his fourth year as the Cards’ cornerback coach. He’s been a steady guide for star Patrick Peterson and Tyrann Mathieu has been outstanding under Ross’s tutelage. He’s been given the tough assignment of making rookie Brandon Williams a capable NFL starter this season.
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Stump Mitchell was a dynamic running back for the Cards in the1980’s and now coaches their ball-carriers. He’s mentored Andre Ellington since the back’s rookie season and has helped him become a solid contributor. He worked wonders last season with David Johnson and has the second-year pro on the verge of stardom.
Three other coaches on the staff have played in the NFL, including inside linebackers coach Larry Foote. Steve Heiden played tight end and is now assistant tight ends/special teams coach. And wide receivers coach Daryl Drake played the same position in the NFL, although his playing career was limited.
The Cardinals’ staff is a prime example of players being able to make the transition into the coaching ranks. And the experiment for the most part has been successful. Arizona is certainly one team that is much better for it.