Arizona Cardinals still without key defenders

During Thursday’s practice the Arizona Cardinals were still without two of their defensive linemen

To some it seems like the same old story with Arizona Cardinals defensive tackle Robert Nkemdiche.  He was not seen during practice once again on Thursday.

Also missing was defensive tackle Corey Peters.  Peters was injured during the Cardinals victory over the New Orleans Saints last Friday night.

Both are considered day-to-day but that’s all we really know by now.  What is known both need to be able to get back on the field as soon as they can, especially from Nkemdiche’s stand point.

Nkemdiche has not been able to stay healthy.  It was exactly one year ago today that it was announced he would be out two to three weeks because of injury.

Some things never change.  Some want to end his employ now and consider him a bust.  I’m not there yet.

Yes it is frustrating not to see him on the field often.  Now going into his third season we all want to see progress.

Unfortunately progress is hard to come by if you’re spending all of your time on the sidelines.  Hopefully Nkemdiche will return to practice soon and be ready for the season opener on September 9th.

As for Peters, he too has had difficulty remaining healthy.  He also has age going against him.  He is 30-years old entering his ninth season in the NFL.

The Cardinals prepared themselves in case either one is out longer than expected.  Defensive tackles  Tani Topau and Nigel Williams were signed on Wednesday to ensure some depth.

Don’t be surprised if the Cardinals make the decision to go out and find other veteran defensive linemen that may hit the waivers when teams make their cuts a week from now.  Nkemdiche and Peters, although expected to be safe, you never know.

Don’t give up on Nkemdiche yet.  However his time is running out.  He needs to get healthy and stay that way or certainly he will be on his way to being the bust some already believe he is.