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Arizona Cardinals: 5 guys its 2017 or bust

By Scott Allen

Oct 17, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; Arizona Cardinals offensive tackle Jared Veldheer (68) against the New York Jets at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 17, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; Arizona Cardinals offensive tackle Jared Veldheer (68) against the New York Jets at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports /
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Dec 4, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; Arizona Cardinals guard Mike Iupati against the Washington Redskins at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 4, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; Arizona Cardinals guard Mike Iupati against the Washington Redskins at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports /

Mike Iupati

The eight-year guard out of Idaho came in a couple of years ago with much fanfare.  He signed a free agent contract coming into the 2015 season.

He was listed as the fourth-best free agent that season.  Known as a great run blocker with mediocre pass blocking skills, he was expected to be a staple on the Cardinals offensive line.

To be fair to him, Iupati has run into some injury issues but some of that can be concerning given his age.  He is now 30 years old and not getting any younger unfortunately.

Now Iupati comes in having to fight for jobs with guys like rookie Dorian Johnson.  Johnson is the heir apparent but could he push Iupati this season?

Given the history of the Cardinals offensive line, there will likely be a lot of shifting around.  There is always hope for stability on the line.  Iupati needs a strong 2017 to stick around in 2018.

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