Wide receiver J.J. Nelson is determined to show the Arizona Cardinals that he’s more than capable of being an NFL starter
Arizona Cardinals wideout J.J. Nelson can sense it. Opportunity is a fleeting thing for many members of the NFL family. Now, with the 2018 season upcoming, Nelson may finally have his.
The skinny, former 2015 fifth-round draft pick of the Cardinals is on a mission this year. Nelson is being handed a chance to be the team’s number-two wide receiver. The great Larry Fitzgerald would appreciate someone who could help alleviate the double-teams that the future Hall of Famer is certain to face in ’18.
Nelson is hoping to convince Arizona management that he can be that guy. The 5’10”, 158 pounder has had the “speedster” label placed upon him. However, the 26-year old is eager to show that he can be much more than just a downfield threat.
Still, when analyzing the University of Alabama at Birmingham product, his breakaway ability is what comes to mind. Nelson, entering his fourth campaign with the club, has averaged a game-breaking 18.6 yards per catch during his career. A statistic that is certainly not indicative of a possession-type receiver.
The fact of the matter is, Nelson is probably better-equipped to line up in the slot. A role that is usually occupied by the league’s smaller pass-catchers. Could Nelson’s slight frame take the pounding that a wideout on the perimeter is susceptible to, especially when asked to make receptions over the middle?
In his favor, Nelson’s competition for the starting post is by no means fierce. There are inexperienced youngsters such as second-year player Chad Williams and rookie Christian Kirk. Mediocre veterans like Brice Butler and Greg Little are also in the mix.
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Training camp will go a long way in determining which one in the group is up to the task. Opportunity will be there for the taking. Nelson is anxious to show the Cards just how valuable he can be.