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Arizona Cardinals could be better than prognosticators think

By Jim Koch

GLENDALE, AZ - DECEMBER 04: Running back David Johnson #31 of the Arizona Cardinals looks to cut back around Kendall Fuller #38 of the Washington Redskins on a touchdown run during the fourth quarter of a game at University of Phoenix Stadium on December 4, 2016 in Glendale, Arizona. (Photo by Ralph Freso/Getty Images)
GLENDALE, AZ - DECEMBER 04: Running back David Johnson #31 of the Arizona Cardinals looks to cut back around Kendall Fuller #38 of the Washington Redskins on a touchdown run during the fourth quarter of a game at University of Phoenix Stadium on December 4, 2016 in Glendale, Arizona. (Photo by Ralph Freso/Getty Images) /
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The disrespect being thrown their way this offseason may motivate the Arizona Cardinals to reach a level not expected of them

The Arizona Cardinals have to be feeling like the red-headed stepchild of the NFL. Not much is expected out of the team from the desert this season. Any positivity shown towards the squad is few and far between these days.

But a closer look at the situation reveals that the league’s pundits may be overlooking the Cardinals’ strengths. It’s true that the organization has a spanking-new coaching staff led by Steve Wilks, who’s never been the head man before. There’s also some question marks at the quarterback position, which features an injury-prone Sam Bradford and an unknown entity in rookie Josh Rosen.

Nevertheless, Arizona may not be as undermanned as many “experts” seem to think. The offense is getting back a running back in David Johnson, who’s arguably the best in football. There’s also timeless wide receiver Larry Fitzgerald, who’ll be shooting for a fourth straight 100-plus reception campaign.

The defensive unit features outstanding cornerback Patrick Peterson, who was voted to his seventh-consecutive Pro Bowl at the conclusion of 2017. There’s also the sensational Chandler Jones, who’s 17 quarterback sacks last year ranked first in the National Football League. Other defenders such as Markus Golden, Deone Bucannon, Budda Baker and Haason Reddick are fine performers as well.

All of that being said, success in the league still comes down to the signal-caller. Despite all of his critics, Bradford is just one season removed from an excellent performance with the Minnesota Vikings. In 2016, the veteran completed an exceptional 71.6% of his throws for 3,877 yards and 20 touchdowns.

Next: Arizona Cardinals: 5 best roster additions

The truth of the matter is, the Cards’ 2018 roster is chock-full of talent. Let their detractors say what they will. And then watch with glee as the Cardinals go out on Sundays and prove them wrong.

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