Arizona Cardinals: Five Players Who Could Determine the Season's Outcome

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Sep 11, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; Arizona Cardinals defensive tackle Robert Nkemdiche (90) against the New England Patriots at University of Phoenix Stadium. The Patriots defeated the Cardinals 23-21. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports /

The Cardinals need Robert Nkemdiche to live up to the hype that surrounded him when he was drafted

Perhaps the biggest loss this offseason, for the Cardinals, is defensive end Calais Campbell. The veteran lineman was a dominant player and an important team leader. His loss will be felt in 2017, with absolute certainty.

In the 2016 draft, the Cardinals made preparations for his loss by selecting Robert Nkemdiche in the first round. Like Humphries, he was a non-factor as a rookie, playing in five games and recording just a single tackle. More will be expected in 2017.

The defensive line, as a whole, comes with question marks this season. The starters will be unproven, whoever it is, and will need to perform at a high level. Nkemdiche would be the preferred choice. He’s clearly talented, as evidenced by his college tape. However, he still has a lot to prove to impatient fans. A big season would help a lot, but he has big shoes to fill.