Arizona Cardinals: Top 10 plays of 2016

Dec 24, 2016; Seattle, WA, USA; Arizona Cardinals quarterback Carson Palmer (3) celebrates after throwing an 80-yard touchdown pass against the Seattle Seahawks during the second quarter at CenturyLink Field. Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 24, 2016; Seattle, WA, USA; Arizona Cardinals quarterback Carson Palmer (3) celebrates after throwing an 80-yard touchdown pass against the Seattle Seahawks during the second quarter at CenturyLink Field. Mandatory Credit: Joe Nicholson-USA TODAY Sports
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Sep 18, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; Arizona Cardinals defensive back Marcus Cooper (41) intercepts a pass and returns it for a touchdown against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the second half at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 18, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; Arizona Cardinals defensive back Marcus Cooper (41) intercepts a pass and returns it for a touchdown against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the second half at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports

9. Marcus Cooper interception return vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers

It was apparent early on that the Cardinals experiment of using rookie Brandon Williams as the starting cornerback opposite Patrick Peterson wasn’t going to work.  Insert Marcus Cooper.

Cooper was inserted into the lineup in week two against the Buccaneers.  It immediately paid dividends.  He had two interceptions, including one that was returned 60-yards for a touchdown.

Cooper wasn’t picked up until the end of the preseason.  The Cardinals couldn’t find enough healthy corners and one that had the possibility of starting.

He was inconsistent all season long and had a hard time staying healthy.  However he was still one of the better pickups general manager Steve Keim made this season.

The Cardinals sound like however they may try to find someone else in 2017 to start opposite Cooper.  Cooper could return in the role next season but it won’t be for a lack of trying by the Cardinals to replace him.

Schedule