Defensive Lineman Robert Nkemdiche has to prove he’s worthy of a roster spot this year
NFL players who are selected in the first round of the draft are expected to contribute. Most don’t get the luxury of being able to sit and acclimate themselves to the league. Instead, they are generally forced into starting, whether ready to play or not.
Robert Nkemdiche was allowed to be an exception. The Arizona Cardinals drafted the controversial defensive lineman in round one, despite some off the field issues that popped up in the spring of 2016. He was taken with the 29th pick overall to a mix of glee and sadness from fans.
Nkemdiche’s rookie season didn’t go exactly how he planned, or how fans wanted. Questions about his maturity, and his dedication surrounded him, and he wasn’t able to consistently get on the field. His first season as a pro saw him play in just five games on the year, and recorded just a single tackle.
As he enters his second year, expectations will be higher, especially from fans. Teams also don’t draft guys in the first round to sit on the bench for two seasons. The Cardinals lack of answers on the defensive line also adds pressure for Nkemdiche to step up his game.
Early reports are that he is working hard this offseason. Teammates have had nothing but positive things to say, and in an offseason where free agency robbed the team of lots of talent, that’s big. He’s always been clearly talented, but the questions are there.
Nkemdiche is currently dealing with a hamstring issue, but it isn’t expected to be an issue going forward. Still, the Cardinals need him working. With Calais Campbell gone, somebody has to step up. The team would like for Nkemdiche to be that guy. If he can’t make a leap in year two, the Cardinals might find somebody else to do it.