Arizona Cardinals Tight End Todd Heap Takes Paycut

After a disappointing season in 2011, the story of Arizona Cardinals tight end Todd Heap in 2012 is unknown going into training camp.  With only 24 receptions in a season he was expected to be one of the top targets for quarterback Kevin Kolb, we went into the off-season not knowing if he was even going to be a member of this team in 2012.  Heap missed nine games in 2011 but one might argue the injury hurt his performance in games he actually participated in. So, in order to help the Cards this season, he is helping them by agreeing to a $1 million pay cut.

The pay cut was something Heap did not have to agree to.  It certainly goes a long way though in showing he realizes he underperformed in 2011 and also knows the team could use the extra cash.  Heap will be a free agent after this season.

Many will look to Heap and blame the under performance on Heap alone.  Of course he has to have a quarterback who can get him the ball as well.  Don’t go blaming Heap for all his troubles.  He also had a very troubling injury that on several weeks left him not knowing even as late as the Thursday or Friday before game day is he was going to be able to play or not.  It was just one of those injuries that nagged him.

Clearly though, the Card will expect more production out of him this season.  Heap is also able to mentor tight end Rob Housler who many, including myself, expect a breakout season from.