The Arizona Cardinalsfailed to draft a quarterback in April, leaving the organization's future at the mercy of Carson Palmer's desire to continue playing beyond 2017.
When the 37-year-old contemplated retirement this past winter, it wasn't for the first time. In each of the past three years, Palmer explained Tuesday, he has told his wife that season would be his last.
"She continues to not believe me every time I say that," Palmer added, via the team's website.
The Cardinals are a trendy bounce-back candidate for a return to the playoffs. If Palmer happens to lead his veteran-laden team to a Super Bowl title, it will eventually propel him into the Hall of Fame discussion.
Might he be willing to commit to another season, allowing himself multiple runs at the Super Bowl?
"I love every facet of [of the game]," Palmer said. "I don't want to stop. But I'll have to wait and make that decision after the season."
Much like All-Pro wideout Larry Fitzgerald, Palmer has reached the year-to-year portion of his career. The future of both stars hinges on the 2017 season.
"There's always urgency, especially as you get to the second half of your career," Palmer acknowledged. "You just never know when your last year is going to be."
If Palmer and Fitzgerald remain healthy and the team shows well enough in January, perhaps the dynamic duo will consider an encore performance in 2018.
