Two Pass Rushing Stand-Outs In Cardinals OTA’s

Jun. 11, 2013; Glendale, AZ, USA: Arizona Cardinals linebacker Alex Okafor during mini camp at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

The Arizona Cardinals have depth around the roster at almost every position, and its depth from some pretty good players. The team has finish their OTA’s for the off-season and have many standouts that were mentioned in an interview with Head Coach Bruce Arians.

The pass rush will be vital helping in the absence of pro-bowl linebacker Daryl Washington, as the team has several guys that are getting better and challenging for minutes.

Two standouts in practice this week were the two young guys, second year Alex Okafor and new rookie third round draft pick Kareem Martin. Both have shown great significant progress in practice as Coach Arians stated in an interview about Okafor,

"“He’s done extremely well, he has stood out in practice everyday” Arians also added “that’s one guy I am anxious to see put the pads on because he can rush the passer”"

Okafor missed all but one game of his rookie season with a strained right bicep suffered in week three verses the New Orleans Saints last year, and was high on the depth chart going into that game. Week three was his first and only game before the injury as he only recorded one solo tackle.

Rookie Kareem Martin also received praise from coach Arians

"“ skies the limit for him, he’s got rush ability he’s got strength, he’s already gained 10 pounds and probably will gain 10 more before we get to camp”"

Martin can be an impact player in his rookie year if he keeps up his progress. With the help and experience from veterans like Darnell Docket and Calias Campbell both these young guys can surely make a difference in giving the Cards a dynamic pass rush next year, baring any significant injuries of course.