Oct. 14, 2012; Glendale, AZ, USA; Arizona Cardinals wide receiver (11) Larry Fitzgerald celebrates with (15) Michael Floyd after scoring a touchdown in the second half against the Buffalo Bills at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
The Arizona Cardinals’ receiving corps has the potential to be one of the better ones in the NFL. Head coach Bruce Arians is bringing in a new offensive system that should provide big plays for the Dirty Birds this season. The receiving group is young, talented and has a decent amount of depth.
The tandem of quarterback Carson Palmer and wide receiver Larry Fitzgerald alone will give the Cards an immediate aerial threat. Fitzgerald is one of the best receivers in the league and a veteran on the team. Last month I predicted Fitzgerald to have a rebound year despite after last season’s disappointment. According to fellow Raising Zona writer Edgar Valenzuela, Palmer is the best quarterback in the NFC West and Fitzgerald will have a stud performance this season.
Starting at the other receiver spot on the field should be Michael Floyd. This will be Floyd’s second year in the league. The former Fighting Irish is poised for a breakout season. He recorded 45 caches, 562 yards and two touchdowns in 2012. Since he should be lining up as a starter on the opposite side Fitzgerald, Floyd will get the opportunity to make some plays in Arians’ offense.
The next man on the wide receiver depth chart is Andre Roberts. The 25-year-old is entering his fourth year in the draft and he has only gotten better each year. Last season he had 64 receptions for 759 yards and five touchdowns. Roberts will most likely be the slot receiver in three WR packages. If his improving trend continues he will only add to the Birds’ passing game.
Jarret Dillard, LaRon Byrd, Ryan Swope, Kerry Taylor and Dan Buckner round out the Cards’ wide receiver depth chart respectively. Together they average only 2.6 years of NFL experience. The Cardinals’wide receiver group will be interesting to watch this year. Hopefully the young and talented group will have some success in Arians’ new offensive scheme.