Raising Zona
FanSided

Arizona Cardinals: 5 players with stock rising

By Scott Allen

July 31, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; Arizona Cardinals wide receiver Jaron Brown (13) runs with the ball during training camp at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Charlie Kaijo/The Arizona Republic via USA TODAY NETWORK
July 31, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; Arizona Cardinals wide receiver Jaron Brown (13) runs with the ball during training camp at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Charlie Kaijo/The Arizona Republic via USA TODAY NETWORK /
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Jun 9, 2015; Tempe, AZ, USA; Arizona Cardinals tackle Xavier Williams (69) talks with defensive end Calais Campbell (93) and defensive tackle Ed Stinson (72) during minicamp practice at the Cardinals Training Facility. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Jun 9, 2015; Tempe, AZ, USA; Arizona Cardinals tackle Xavier Williams (69) talks with defensive end Calais Campbell (93) and defensive tackle Ed Stinson (72) during minicamp practice at the Cardinals Training Facility. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports /

Xavier Williams

Nose tackle Xavier Williams was a nice surprise in training camp in 2015.  He played so well in the preseason, many predicted he would crack the 53-man roster by the time the Cardinals were a couple of weeks into camp.

However Williams was only active for four games last season, starting none of them.  He only had two tackles last season.

Williams has taken advantage of his situation much like Brandon Williams has done.  Someone went out with injury, so it was next man up again.

Williams is taking advantage of the absence of Corey Peters being out with plantar fasciitis for awhile.  That means Williams has his time to shine now.  He has been promoted to starter.

Arians has called out Williams as being improved in his pass rush.  Arians said Williams is having a good camp.  Again its early and with other defensive linemen returning soon like Robert Nkemdiche and Ed Stinson, he needs to keep up the pressure and show he deserves to remain a starter.

Next: Second-year is a charm

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