Arizona Cardinals Release First Depth Chart: Surprises in Running Back Position and More – NFL Insights

The Arizona Cardinals have recently unveiled their first depth chart of the season, and it has already sparked considerable discussion among fans and analysts alike. The release comes just five days ahead of their preseason opener against the New Orleans Saints, setting the stage for what promises to be an intriguing preseason. While much of the depth chart aligns with expectations based on last season’s performances and the order of reps in training camp, there are a few surprising placements that stand out. These unexpected moves offer a glimpse into the team’s strategic adjustments and potential areas of focus as they gear up for the upcoming NFL season.

One of the most notable surprises on the depth chart is the running back position. Eno Benjamin, who many expected to start, is listed as the backup running back behind James Conner. This placement has raised eyebrows, especially considering Benjamin’s performance last season and his initial projections. In contrast, Emari Demercado has emerged as one of the main storylines in the first two weeks of training camp. Demercado has been working with the first team to spell Conner, showcasing his skills as a runner, receiver, and blocker. Head coach Jonathan Gannon has praised Demercado’s versatility and effectiveness, suggesting that he could play a significant role in the Cardinals’ offensive scheme this season.

On the other hand, Benjamin has been working with the second and third-team offenses and has not made any standout plays so far. When asked about Benjamin, Gannon mentioned several areas where the rookie needs to improve. Despite these challenges, the depth chart on Monday provided a vote of confidence for Benjamin, indicating that the coaching staff still sees potential in him. Another notable placement on the depth chart is Michael Carter being listed as the fifth-string running back. With Conner and Benjamin cemented in their positions and Demercado showing promise, Carter’s placement suggests that he may not make the 53-man cut. This development adds another layer of intrigue to the running back competition as the preseason progresses.

The cornerback position also presents some interesting surprises. Sean Murphy-Bunting is listed as the top outside cornerback, while Garrett Williams is positioned as the top nickel. In training camp, second-round rookie Max Melton has often lined up opposite Murphy-Bunting and has shined, limiting big plays from top receivers such as Marvin Harrison Jr. Byron Murphy Jr., who emerged as a starter towards the end of last season, has struggled, allowing the second-worst passer rating in the league. In camp, Murphy has been shaky at times and has been beaten by top receivers. If this trend continues, the cornerback position could look different come Week 1, potentially impacting the Cardinals’ defensive strategy.

Another intriguing aspect of the depth chart is the placement of first-round pick Zaven Collins. Collins is listed behind veteran linebackers Bilal Nichols, Ray Lopez, and Justin Jones. The defensive line is a rotation group, with players rarely playing over 75% of snaps, so Collins will still see significant playing time even though he is listed as a backup. Despite being listed as a backup, L.J. Collier is intriguingly positioned as the backup nose tackle, which bumps Khyiris Tonga down to third on the depth chart. This arrangement highlights the depth and competition within the Cardinals’ defensive line, offering insights into the team’s approach to maximizing their defensive capabilities.

The release of the depth chart also sheds light on key position battles in training camp. Evan Brown is listed as the starting left guard, beating out rookie Isaiah Adams. Michael Wilson is currently listed as the second wide receiver ahead of Zay Jones, who is positioned in the slot. The starting cornerbacks, along with Sean Murphy-Bunting, are Garrett Williams and Starling Thomas V, not rookie Max Melton. The running back position continues to be a major storyline in practice, with Emari Demercado looking to be in the running for the RB2 spot. However, on the depth chart, rookie Trey Benson is listed as RB2 while Demercado is third, with Michael Carter at fifth. These placements provide a snapshot of the ongoing competition and strategic decisions shaping the Cardinals’ roster.

The defensive line has favored experience, with Justin Jones, Roy Lopez, and Bilal Nichols listed as starters instead of first-round pick Darius Robinson and last year’s sixth-round pick Dante Stills. Outside linebacker is another area of focus, with a season-ending injury for B.J. Ojulari leading to Zaven Collins and Dennis Gardeck starting. Victor Dimukeje and Jesse Luketa are listed as backups. Tight end Tip Reiman, a third-round pick, adds blocking ability and athleticism to the position. Currently, Elijah Higgins is listed as the backup tight end. Higgins, a sixth-round pick by the Miami Dolphins last year, was cut in training camp and later added to the Cardinals roster, transitioning from wide receiver to tight end. He had a reception in each of his last seven games of the year, with 10 of his 13 on the season coming in the final four contests.

The first look at this 2024 group will be against the New Orleans Saints in preseason action, airing on the Arizona Sports App and 98.7. The Arizona Cardinals have moved onto the preseason after completing training camp. Arizona Sports’ Cardinals reporter Tyler Drake and contributor Lauren Koval discuss what they learned from camp and the remaining position battles heading into the preseason. They also give an exclusive look at the new balance cleats that rookie Marvin Harrison Jr. will be sporting during his first year. The Cardinals’ preseason game against the Saints airs at 5 p.m. on the Arizona Sports App and 98.7. Fans can expect to see a mix of seasoned veterans and promising rookies in action during this game, providing a preview of the team’s potential heading into the regular season.

Despite finishing last season with only four wins, the Arizona Cardinals had some impressive victories, including wins against the Dallas Cowboys, Pittsburgh Steelers, and Philadelphia Eagles. Their quality wins surpassed those of some playoff teams, highlighting the team’s potential under head coach Jonathan Gannon’s leadership. The team could have done even better if quarterback Kyler Murray had not been injured. However, there were positive signs in Gannon’s first year as head coach, and the team is looking to build on that foundation in the upcoming season. The Cardinals were able to draft highly-touted receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. with the fourth overall pick due to other teams’ quarterback needs. Harrison Jr. is considered one of the best college receivers in recent years and has the potential to be a franchise player for the Cardinals.

In the 2024 NFL training camp, four key Cardinals players are struggling. Second-year pass rusher BJ Ojulari suffered a season-ending torn ACL, adding to concerns about the team’s pass rush. Zaven Collins is already expected to start, but several other players will be under scrutiny as potential replacements for Ojulari. Rookie cornerback Max Melton, a second-round pick, was absent from practice due to injury. The team hopes his injury is minor so he can return to the field and compete for a starting position. Starling Thomas received first-team reps at cornerback in Melton’s absence. Wide receiver Michael Wilson had been ahead of Zay Jones, but Jones still has time to compete for a top-three spot. Jones’ struggles may push him out of the top three and force the Cardinals to rely on their established receivers.

Center Hjalte Froholdt injured his left leg in practice and is considered day-to-day. With Froholdt out, Evan Brown and Jon Gaines are expected to see increased snaps with the first-team offense. Froholdt’s health is crucial for the success of the Cardinals’ offensive line. The struggles of Ojulari, Melton, Jones, and Froholdt highlight the challenges the Cardinals face as they prepare for the 2024 season. The depth chart provides a snapshot of the team’s current standing and the areas that need improvement. As the preseason progresses, these players will have opportunities to prove themselves and secure their positions on the roster.

The depth chart also offers insights into the Cardinals’ strategic approach for the upcoming season. The placement of players like Eno Benjamin, Emari Demercado, and Michael Carter in the running back position, as well as the positioning of cornerbacks Sean Murphy-Bunting, Garrett Williams, and Max Melton, reflects the team’s focus on versatility and depth. The competition among linebackers and defensive linemen underscores the importance of experience and rotational play in the Cardinals’ defensive strategy. These strategic decisions will play a crucial role in shaping the team’s performance in the regular season and their ability to contend with other NFL teams.

As the Cardinals move forward into the preseason, fans and analysts will be closely watching the developments and adjustments made by the coaching staff. The depth chart serves as a dynamic tool that evolves based on player performance, injuries, and strategic considerations. The upcoming preseason games will provide valuable insights into how the team is gelling and which players are stepping up to meet the challenges of the NFL. The mix of seasoned veterans and promising rookies on the roster offers a blend of experience and potential that could prove to be a winning combination for the Cardinals in the 2024 season.