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Arizona Cardinals preseason depth chart

By Scott Allen

Jan 16, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; Arizona Cardinals quarterback Carson Palmer (3) against the Green Bay Packers during an NFC Divisional round playoff game at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 16, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; Arizona Cardinals quarterback Carson Palmer (3) against the Green Bay Packers during an NFC Divisional round playoff game at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports /
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Dec 20, 2015; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Arizona Cardinals free safety Tyrann Mathieu (32) breaks up a pass play to Philadelphia Eagles tight end Zach Ertz (86) during the first half at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 20, 2015; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Arizona Cardinals free safety Tyrann Mathieu (32) breaks up a pass play to Philadelphia Eagles tight end Zach Ertz (86) during the first half at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports /

1. Tyrann Mathieu

We’ll see if the Honey Badger can return by the start of the regular season.  When he does return to full-time playing status, he will be the starter.

By all accounts Mathieu’s rehab is going very well.  Original projections had him returning sometime in camp but the Cardinals won’t rush him.  If he doesn’t play a down in August I think most would be fine with that.

In 14 games in 2015, Mathieu had an amazing 17 passes defensed and five interceptions.  Coming off his second torn-ACL injury it will be something if he can come close to providing the same numbers in 2016.

2. Tony Jefferson

Jefferson is well liked amongst fans.  Many were happy to see him come back.  There was some doubt whether he would or not.

He played in all 16 games last season, starting seven.  He could see more time than that this season depending on the health of Mathieu.

He had two interceptions last season but they were big ones.  He clinched the Monday Night Football victory over the Baltimore Ravens last October with an end zone pick.  He returned his other interception for a touchdown against the Chicago Bears.  He could be a number one guy on a number of teams.

Next: Safeties 2

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