Arizona Cardinals: Likelihood that free agents return

Tight End Jermaine Gresham

Though the Arizona Cardinals have not had a clearly-established starter at tight end during Coach Bruce Arians’ tenure, Jermaine Gresham has been one of the more consistent performers they have had at the position.

Gresham joined the Cardinals in 2015 on a one-year contract. In 2016 – despite having larger, multi-year contract offers from more than one team – Gresham chose to return to Arizona on another one-year contract.

On one hand, this demonstrates that Gresham appears to have an affinity for the Cardinals, and he may be willing to, once again, offer his services for a discounted rate.

On the other hand, however, he may feel that the loyalty he demonstrated in 2016 merits reciprocity from the Cardinals in 2017. In other words, he might feel like he is owed a bigger, multi-year contract, after signing for less in 2016.

If Gresham’s generosity persists, the Cardinals are likely to want him back. If Gresham insists upon being paid according to his market value, don’t be surprised if the Cardinals go in a different direction. Rather than re-signing Gresham, the Cardinals could opt to address the position in the draft, or to pursue a younger player like Indianapolis Colts tight end Jack Doyle.

Likelihood of returning: 35 percent