Arizona Cardinals: Five players poised for increased roles in 2017

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Dec 18, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; Detailed view of an Arizona Cardinals helmet in the hand of a player on the sidelines against the New Orleans Saints at University of Phoenix Stadium. The Saints defeated the Cardinals 48-41. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports /

Looking ahead toward the 2017 NFL season, these five Arizona Cardinals players appear poised to take on increased roles.

With the Cardinals’ 2016 season in the rearview mirror, the organization is already beginning the work of preparing for the 2017 season. This work will involve resigning some players, moving on from others, and adding new talent through the draft and free agency.

Amidst all of this roster churning, jostling, and reloading, some returning players will be called upon to assume increased responsibility in 2017.

In most cases, this is tied to the standard development curve of a young player. Players who spent their rookie year digesting the playbook and adjusting to the speed of the NFL, often take on larger roles in their second year.

A player’s own development is not the only factor. Veterans retiring, free agents moving on, and the declining play of aging teammates are also a part of the equation.

With this in mind, here are five players who appear poised to take on increased roles in 2017.

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