Arizona Cardinals: Right move to sit stars

The Arizona Cardinals announced a couple of their top skill players will not play in the Hall of Fame Game

On the first day of training camp practice at University of Phoenix Stadium in Glendale, the Arizona Cardinals made a not so shocking announcement. Quarterback Carson Palmer and receiver Larry Fitzgerald will sit out the Pro Football Hall of Fame game on Thursday August 3rd against the Dallas Cowboys.

Traditionally top players either skip the game or get just a few reps. To play it safe, the Cardinals are going to sit Palmer and Fitz for the game. It is the right move.

There is little to gain by Palmer and Fitz playing in the game. Other than its a nationally televise game and fans would want to see the top guys, the fact is the game means nothing in the grand scheme of things. At least not as far as those players are concerned.

What it will be is a great opportunity and an extra game for coaches to get a look at guys who are trying to make the 53-man roster. Drew Stanton will start in place of Palmer.

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Although Stanton’s place appears to be solidified as the backup quarterback, the Cardinals do also have Blaine Gabbert in camp. Never say never. This will be a good opportunity for Stanton.

Also look for Gabbert and rookie Trevor Knight to see some action. This is why this game is important for many. As the preseason wears on, the starters are going to see more and more reps.

The Cardinals also have plenty of receivers in camp that can make this roster but need to show their stuff. The extra game should only help guys like Aaron Dobson, Jeremy Ross, Chris Hubert, and Marquis Bundy.

Don’t count out all of the starters in the game against the Cowboys. This will be the first game test and will help in preparing them for game action in September. It will also give them a chance to hit other players besides their teammates after a week and a half of practices.

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