Arizona Cardinals: Grading 2016 position by position
By Scott Allen
Tight End
It was an interesting year for the tight ends. In preseason it appeared that Troy Niklas could be the man after starting out hot. Of course he got hurt and missed most of the season on injured reserve.
Then last year’s surprise Darren Fells had a rough preseason. He got into Arians’ doghouse committing silly penalties. That left Jermaine Gresham, Ifeanyi Momah, and Hakeem Valles.
Gresham re-signed for one year. That was a little bit of a surprise given that he didn’t play very well in 2015. He surprised and had a nice season in 2016.
The problem with Gresham is his temper. While some saw his temper as a positive thing trying to pump his team up, it hurt his team against Seattle on Christmas Eve. He cost his team field position and a chance to kick a field goal.
The Cardinals may still bring him back though. He understands Palmer well and usually catches balls that come his way.
Fells dropped a bit in production this season. He finally found the end zone in week 17 against the Rams.
Who will be back in 2017?
Yes: Darren Fells, Troy Niklas
Maybe: Jermaine Gresham, Ifeanyi Momah
No: Hakeem Valles
Grade: C+